South-East Zanzibar / Michamvi Peninsula, Zanzibar Island Destination. In the south-east corner of Zanzibar, the Michamvi Peninsula and south-east Zanzibar is very similar in character to the east coast which stretches north of Chaka Bay – and is covered on this site under East Coast Zanzibar. It has the same powder-white stunning sandy beaches, barrier reef, palm trees and significant tidal change.
The South East Coast has much going for it. Less over-built than the Central East Coast, white sandy beaches lined with palm trees and a good sea-breeze which cuts mosquito numbers and make air-conditioning slightly less of a life saver, the region is ideal for those in search of a relaxing beach holiday. The 10km-long Michamvi Peninsula's, there are just a handful of high-quality beach retreats; so come here for the pristine, palm-fringed powder-white beaches, a barrier reef, good diving opportunities and plenty of space.
In fact, that area south of the peninsular, around Paje, Bwejuu and Jambiani, used to be the busiest part of Zanzibar's beach scene – especially for backpackers. But in recent years low budget travelers have moved more to northern Zanzibar, around Nungwi and Kendwa, leaving this south-east stretch relatively quiet. This leaves the south-east as more of a low-key, low-impact beach retreat.
However, as with most of Zanzibar’s coast, the tides change the beach dramatically and bathing in the sea at low-tide is pretty universally impossible on the South East Coast. Seaweed farming is especially noticeable in the South East as the villages are still very attached to the beaches as their source of income.
The South East Zanzibar Island Coast Beaches.
Jambiani Beach
Furthest South in this region is Jambiani. One of the most lively options for travelers to the area, tourists privilege from a good range of local restaurants and the friendliness of the village through which guided cultural tours are run.
The beach can seem wild and windy compared to some of Zanzibar’s other coastal spots. However, this gives it a sense of rustic charm and personality. The Community that share Jambiani’s sands with the reclining tourists is made up of fishermen and seaweed farmers as well as local children keen to play football.
Good Snorkeling is on offer as well as the option to hire a bicycle and explore further down the coast.
Bwejuu, Pingwe and Dongwe Beaches
Bwejuu has a lovely beach for most of the year. However, around Christmas it can get incredibly seaweed covered. The area boasts some first rate snorkeling spots. It is also a good central spot on the South East coast from which to explore both to the North and South by bicycle. Most hotels will hire bicycles free of charge. The central location on the South East peninsula means you will have a chance to experience many of the various beach spots along this stretch of coast.
South of Bwejuu, just on the Michamvi Peninsula, is Pingwe and Dongwe. Quieter than Jambiani and Bwejuu when it comes to local development and community these villages offer less chance of much interaction with Zanzibari life and more exclusive, secluded and boutique accommodation.
All the South East Coast activities of Cycling, Kite-surfing, Snorkeling, Diving and enjoying the beach as well as various excursions are on offer however. The region is a good relaxation getaway.
Michamvi Peninsula Beach
Notable for rising headland and sandy beach coves, the Ras Michamvi Peninsula to the North of the region is quiet and reasonably sparsely populated. With a few resorts (more appearing all the time) and a well renowned dive centre at nearby Kae, the area is good for those wishing to escape civilization and indulge in the sea. Though bear in mind there is still no swimming at low tide and the inevitability of some seaweed.
Why visit South-East Zanzibar / Michamvi Peninsula, Zanzibar Island Coast Destinations.
- Visit beaches on Zanzibar Island with powder-white stunning sandy beaches.
- To relax and soak the sun on the white sandy beaches.
- The high quality beach retreats available in the area.
- For the plenty of scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities and other activities available off the Indian Ocean Sea Coast.
- Just to relax and to get away from it all after an African Safari Expedition or as a weekend gateway from Africa, Europe, The Middle East and Parts of Asia.
- As a stopping and resting place at the beginning or end of your safari holiday to Africa or within the Island of Zanzibar and surrounding island archipelagos.
Featured South-East Zanzibar / Michamvi Peninsula, Safari Holiday Vacation Trips