Zanzibar is a paradise for those who love the sea. This island is perfect for kite surfing and other sports with its turquoise waters, warm weather, and steady winds. You can visit peaceful lagoons, open bays, and sandy beaches that stretch for kilometers. The island’s best kite surfing beaches are spread across both the east and north coasts, so you can enjoy a variety of experiences.
Renting a car in Zanzibar is the easiest way to reach these spots. Public transport is limited, and many kite surfing schools and beaches are far from the main towns. With a car, you can carry your gear, follow the wind conditions, and move between beaches. Our guide will show you the best kite surfing beaches in Zanzibar and other top water activities you should not miss.
Paje Beach is one of the most famous kite surfing spots in Zanzibar. Its flat lagoon, shallow water, and wide sandy stretch make it ideal for beginners and advanced riders. The winds are steady for six months of the year, giving you plenty of time to plan your trip.
The kite surfing schools here use modern equipment from top brands and focus on safety. Instructors are certified and can teach in several languages, which is perfect for travelers from different countries. The best seasons to visit are June to September and December to March, when the trade winds bring consistent 18–25 knot speeds. Sometimes, you can even experience stronger winds of up to 30 knots, so choose the right kite size for safety.
If you are new to kite surfing, Paje is the perfect training ground. The sandy bottom and warm tropical water help you learn faster. You can also try advanced lessons like freestle, foil, or strapless riding. Equipment rentals are available for short sessions, full days, or even weekly packages. You can enjoy kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the calm lagoon when there is no wind.
Jambiani Beach is just south of Paje and shares the same ideal conditions for kite surfing. The water is shallow, the seabed is sandy, and the wind is steady during the main kite seasons. This is perfect if you want fewer crowds than Paje. The beach has a friendly community feel; you will find smaller kite centers that give personalized lessons. Many of these schools also offer storage services for your equipment if you stay long. You can book private or semi-private lessons, with training hours adjusted to the wind conditions.
Since the lagoon here is large, practicing long rides or taking downwind trips along the coast is easy. The warm 27°C water means you can ride comfortably without a wetsuit, although a shorty is suitable for long sessions. You can explore the nearby fishing village when the wind drops or try stand-up paddleboarding in the lagoon.
Kichanga Lodge Beach is a more secluded location for kite surfers who prefer quiet sessions. The lagoon here has flat water and steady winds, and the area is less busy than Paje or Jambiani. Kite surfing schools in this area use Cabrinha and NPX equipment. The instructors are experienced and certified, and your safety is ensured during lessons. You can take courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced, and rent full gear if you already know how to ride.
This beach is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving. The clear waters are home to colorful fish and coral reefs. You can explore both above and below the water. With fewer people, it is a peaceful place to enjoy long rides or relax between sessions.
Nungwi Beach is located at the northern tip of Zanzibar. It is best known for its traditional dhow sailing and fishing culture, but it is also becoming popular for kite surfing. While it does not have the same shallow lagoons as the East Coast, it offers open-sea conditions for advanced riders.
The winds here are consistent during the main seasons, and the deeper waters are good for riders who want a challenge. You can combine kite surfing with other water activities in Zanzibar, such as snorkeling at nearby coral reefs or taking a sunset dhow cruise. This area also has some of the island’s busiest tourist facilities, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and bars. If you want to mix water sports with nightlife, Nungwi is a good choice. Remember that the currents can be stronger here, so it is best for experienced kite surfers.
The kite surfing seasons in Zanzibar are shaped by two main trade wind periods. The Kaskazi wind blows from December to March, moving from left to right across the beaches, while the Kuzi wind blows from June to September in the opposite direction.
During these months, you can expect wind speeds between 18 and 25 knots, with some days reaching 30 knots. Air temperatures stay around 30°C (86°F), and the water temperature is usually about 27°C (80°F). These warm conditions mean you can ride in comfort most of the time, but wearing shorts can help during long days on the water. Planning your trip during these seasons will give you the best chance of steady winds. However, kite surfing is possible outside these months if conditions are right. You should always check the forecast and ask local instructors for the latest updates.
Aside from kite surfing, Zanzibar is famous for its snorkeling spots. Snorkeling is a great way to spend a no-wind day in Zanzibar for kite surfing. It gives you a different view of the island’s natural beauty and is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
The reefs here are home to tropical fish, starfish, and even sea turtles. One of the top places to try snorkeling is Mnemba Atoll, where the water is clear and full of marine life. Most tours provide all the necessary equipment, along with guides who know the best spots. Early morning trips are popular because the sea is calmer and visibility is better. If you have an underwater camera, you can capture the amazing colors of the coral and fish.
If you want to go deeper, scuba diving in Zanzibar offers access to coral gardens, underwater caves, and shipwrecks. Popular diving sites include Tumbatu Island and Leven Bank, both known for their unique ecosystems and exciting underwater landscapes.
Diving is best from November to March, when the water is warm and visibility is at its highest. You should have the right certification for advanced dives, but there are also beginner-friendly spots where you can take your first lessons. Many dive centers also arrange trips that combine diving with other water activities in Zanzibar, so you can experience more in a single day. This is another good option for days when kite surfing conditions are not ideal.
Dhow sailing is one of the most authentic activities you can enjoy in Zanzibar. These wooden boats have been used for centuries for fishing and trade. Today, they also take visitors on scenic trips along the coastline. You can book a dhow cruise from Nungwi Beach or Stone Town, with options for daytime or sunset trips. Sunset cruises are stunning, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink over the Indian Ocean. While dhow sailing is calmer than kite surfing, it still connects you to Zanzibar’s maritime culture. It is a relaxing way to end a day of water sports and enjoy the island from a different perspective.
Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, is perfect for exploring Zanzibar’s calm lagoons and mangroves. One of the best places to try it is Michamvi Kae. Paddleboarding is easy to learn and can be enjoyed at your own pace. High tide makes it easier to move through the mangroves, and wearing a hat and sunscreen will keep you comfortable under the tropical sun. This activity is a great choice for a quiet morning or afternoon with light wind. It is also a good way to keep fit while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
Zanzibar is one of the best places in the world for kite surfing and water sports. You can mix your kite sessions with snorkeling, diving, dhow sailing, and paddleboarding. Rent a car in Zanzibar with Final Rentals to move between spots easily, carry your gear, and follow the wind. With warm seas, friendly communities, and world-class beaches, Zanzibar is ready to give you an unforgettable water sports adventure.
