A calm sea at sunset with a boat and a pier on the right.

Zanzibar Hotel Guide - Kendwa Beach hotels in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
7 Aug - 8 Aug
Tomorrow
8 Aug - 9 Aug
This weekend
7 Aug - 9 Aug
Next weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug

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Our top choices for Kendwa Beach hotels

1. Hotel Riu Palace Swahili - All Inclusive - Adults Only

Hotel Riu Palace Swahili - All Inclusive - Adults Only
1.4 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Katsiaryna
€376
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Hotel Riu Palace Swahili - All Inclusive - Adults Only

2. Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar - All Inclusive
1 km from Kendwa Beach
United Kingdom
ASIA
Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar - All Inclusive

3. Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel

Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel
0.4 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Katherine
€142
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel

4. Hotel Riu Jambo - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Jambo - All Inclusive
1 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
jonette
Hotel Riu Jambo - All Inclusive

5. Sunset Kendwa

Sunset Kendwa
0.3 km from Kendwa Beach
Sweden
Fredrik
€142
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Sunset Kendwa

6. Zuri Zanzibar

Zuri Zanzibar
0.7 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Katsiaryna
€912
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Zuri Zanzibar

7. Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa

Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
0.4 km from Kendwa Beach
United Kingdom
Miss Najah Omar
€967
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa

8. Mocco Beach Villa

Mocco Beach Villa
0.1 km from Kendwa Beach
South Africa
Donovan
€93
includes taxes & fees
8 Aug - 9 Aug
Mocco Beach Villa

9. Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort

Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort
0.2 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Nitin
€157
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort

10. Sand and Sunset

Sand and Sunset
0.3 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
James
€80
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Sand and Sunset

11. Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar - Adults Only

Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar - Adults Only
0.8 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Alejandro
Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar - Adults Only

12. Canary Kendwa Beach Resort

Canary Kendwa Beach Resort
0.7 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Lindie
€406
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Canary Kendwa Beach Resort

13. Tropicana Kendwa Beach Hotel

Tropicana Kendwa Beach Hotel
0.1 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Corey
Tropicana Kendwa Beach Hotel

14. Tropicana Garden

Tropicana Garden
0.5 km from Kendwa Beach
Tropicana Garden

15. kendwa stay

kendwa stay
0.4 km from Kendwa Beach
€69
includes taxes & fees
8 Aug - 9 Aug
kendwa stay

16. Natural Kendwa Villa

Natural Kendwa Villa
0.5 km from Kendwa Beach
United Kingdom
Belinda
Natural Kendwa Villa

17. La Fotana Restaurant And Bungalows

La Fotana Restaurant And Bungalows
0.6 km from Kendwa Beach
La Fotana Restaurant And Bungalows

18. Z Hotel & Z2 Hotel

Z Hotel & Z2 Hotel
2.8 km from Kendwa Beach
Canada
Gianfranco
Z Hotel & Z2 Hotel

19. Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa

Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa
0.5 km from Kendwa Beach
Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa

20. The Mora Zanzibar - Luxury All Inclusive

The Mora Zanzibar - Luxury All Inclusive
9.7 km from Kendwa Beach
United States
Phebe
€457
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
The Mora Zanzibar - Luxury All Inclusive
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Compare popular hotels close to Kendwa Beach

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Outdoor pool
Opera Hotel
9.6
Exceptional
19 reviews
View
Aerial view
Hotel Riu Palace Swahili - All Inclusive - Adults Only
9.0
Wonderful
52 reviews
View
Suite (Marhaba) | Beach/ocean view
Langi Langi Beach Bungalows
8.8
Excellent
50 reviews
View
2 outdoor pools
Canary Hotel & SPA
8.4
Very good
37 reviews
View
Free daily buffet breakfast
Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort
8.4
Very good
9 reviews
View

Top Kendwa Beach Hotel Reviews

Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel

Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"This was a great place as a single woman traveling solo. The beaches are beautiful, though if you want a quiet swim go earlier in the day! The food was great and there are plenty of activities during the week. I would definitely stay here again!"
Katherine 2-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel
Canary Kendwa Beach Resort

Canary Kendwa Beach Resort

10/10 Excellent
"My stay at Canary Kendwa Beach Resort was one of the most beautiful vacations I’ve ever had. Everything exceeded our expectations from the moment we arrived. The resort is perfectly located on the stunning Kendwa Beach, with crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and breathtaking sunsets every evening. Swimming in the warm ocean was an unforgettable experience. Our room was spacious, spotless, comfortable, and beautifully maintained. The bathroom was modern, and housekeeping kept everything perfectly clean throughout our stay. The staff were exceptional—friendly, professional, and always ready to help with a smile. No request was too much, and they made us feel welcome every day. The food was delicious with plenty of variety, and the beachfront bar served amazing cocktails at great prices. Enjoying drinks while watching the sunset was one of our favorite moments. We also loved the daily activities and evening entertainment. Playing table tennis and watching the international shows made every night fun and memorable. The reception team was always available and very helpful whenever we needed assistance. Canary Kendwa Beach Resort offers the perfect combination of relaxation, beautiful scenery, excellent service, delicious food, and a wonderful atmosphere. We created unforgettable memories here and can’t wait to return. We highly recommend this resort to anyone visiting Zanzibar—it truly deserves 5 stars!"
Younes 1-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Canary Kendwa Beach Resort
Sunset Kendwa

Sunset Kendwa

10/10 Excellent
"I really enjoyed my stay at Sunset Kendwa. My double room was incredibly spacious, and everything worked perfectly; from the hot water to the air conditioning. The resort itself has a great atmosphere, with direct beach access, plenty of activities, and delicious food. African Night was a highlight, with an amazing buffet, Maasai performances, and an acrobatic show that made for a memorable evening. There were just a couple of things that could be improved. Because I had the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my door, my room wasn’t sprayed for mosquitoes one evening, and I wasn’t aware this was part of the evening service. I also couldn’t find a phone number to reach reception, so my only option would have been to walk there, which wasn’t ideal. My biggest suggestion would be around dining hours. Breakfast and dinner ended quite strictly, and if you missed them, there were very limited alternatives. I think it would greatly improve the guest experience if there were an all-day menu available outside the standard meal times, especially for guests returning from excursions or activities. Overall, I had a wonderful stay and would happily recommend this resort. The positives far outweighed the negatives. 😊"
Kumbirai Trish 2-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Sunset Kendwa
Hotel Riu Jambo - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Jambo - All Inclusive

8/10 Good
"Overall, we enjoyed our stay. The food was decent. The quality itself didn’t feel amazing. I think they missed chances for excellent dining such as carving tables or omelet station. They could’ve had more selection and it was difficult to get into the restaurants. The hotel itself is newer very clean and well-maintained especially coming from Stonetown. It’s perfectly nice for a Westerner. I wish there was more entertainment. There was some nights that there was basically no entertainment and there’s not a lot of amenities for entertainment such as multiple pool tables or club, etc. The overall vibe was laid back. The beach itself was nice with plenty of options for guests and multiple pools. There were a few kids and mainly travelers from Europe and South Africa. I thought security would stop local vendors from hounding you but they didn’t. Overall I didn’t regret my stay but I might look elsewhere next time."
Danielle 4-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Hotel Riu Jambo - All Inclusive
Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort

Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful place & beautiful people. Very welcoming, food was gorgeous and different every night. They upgraded my room as returning customer and I fell in love all over again 😍.. no moans over here, just smiles ✨️"
Tiffany 3-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort
My Blue Hotel

My Blue Hotel

8/10 Good
"Property grounds were nice. Rooms are a bit dated. The TV and telephone in our room did not work. Manager at reception was very accommodating and made our stay much better. The massages were excellent. Highly recommend them.! Wifi is awful! Love the balconies! The other downside is the beach, the beach is beautiful but you have to pay 25$ for 2 chairs and umbrella every day if you want to be on the beach. Otherwise they do have beach chairs on man made beach near infinity pool. Just depends on your preference! Food is ok. Nothing to rave about but something for everyone!"
Pamela 6-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
My Blue Hotel
Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa

Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel, ultra luxury"
Miss Najah Omar 4-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
Sand and Sunset

Sand and Sunset

8/10 Good
"Room clean good restaurant "
James 2-night trip
Posted 8 months ago
Sand and Sunset
Mocco Beach Villa

Mocco Beach Villa

10/10 Excellent
"10 out of 10 it was perfect. Staff was also very helpful."
Donovan 2-night trip
Posted 8 months ago
Mocco Beach Villa

Other attractions near Kendwa Beach

A beach with wooden chairs and tables, a rope barrier, and several boats on turquoise water.

Nungwi Beach

9.2/10 (632 reviews)
Enjoy a beautiful stretch of white sand and blue sea surrounded by plenty of amenities, as well as a turtle conservation site.
See properties
A clear blue sea with a sailboat and a distant island.

Mnemba Island

9.2/10 (377 reviews)
Stay in a palm-leaf cottage on this idyllic resort island, dive along the coral reef and look for dolphins and whales.
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Simba Padel

Catch an event at Simba Padel during your trip to Kendwa. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
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Tazari Caves

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Tazari Caves during your travels in Kendwa. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
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Nungwi Sunrise Point

You can learn about the history of Nungwi with a stop at Nungwi Sunrise Point. Wander the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.
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Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium

8.6/10 (52 reviews)
Make time to visit the sea animals who live in Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium during your holiday to Nungwi. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.
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Fukuchani Ruins & Cave

10.0/10 (1 review)
Learn about the local history of Fukuchani with a stop at Fukuchani Ruins & Cave.
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Kigomani Beach

9.2/10 (25 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Kigomani Beach during your trip to Matemwe? Wander the beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.
See properties

Find out more about Kendwa Beach

Top reasons to visit Kendwa Beach

  • Stunning Beaches: Kendwa Beach boasts pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Vibrant Atmosphere: The lively Kendwa village offers a vibrant social scene, with beach bars and entertainment options.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy thrilling activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, and jet skiing in the beautiful Indian Ocean.
  • Breathtaking Sunsets: Witness spectacular sunsets that create a picturesque backdrop for romantic evenings.
  • Cultural Experiences: Explore the rich heritage of Zanzibar Island with nearby excursions and cultural interactions.

Find great hotels near Kendwa Beach

Explore a delightful array of accommodation options at Kendwa Beach, where sun-kissed shores meet tranquil luxury. Choose from charming guesthouses to exquisite resorts like Canary Kendwa Beach Resort and Sansi Kendwa Beach Resort, catering to beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement in this stunning part of Unguja, ensuring a memorable Tanzanian getaway.

  • Sunset Kendwa: Nestled a mere 322m from Kendwa Beach, Sunset Kendwa is a charming 4-star lodge that invites guests to indulge in a quintessential beach vacation experience. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this property offers direct access to pristine sandy shores, making it an ideal retreat for sun-seekers. The lodge's relaxed atmosphere, combined with its scenic views and comfortable accommodations, ensures a delightful stay for those looking to unwind by the ocean.
  • Zenobia Beach Resort: Situated 3.2km from Kendwa Beach, Zenobia Beach Resort is a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel seamlessly combines relaxation and rejuvenation, featuring a full spa that offers services such as body scrubs, treatments, and massages. Guests can enjoy direct beach access while taking advantage of the tranquil environment, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a spa-themed getaway without breaking the bank.
  • Nungwi Garden Boutique Hotel: Located 3.2km from Kendwa Beach, Nungwi Garden Boutique Hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10 and is perfect for adventurous travellers. This 3-star property provides various recreation activities, including hiking, windsurfing, snorkelling, and fishing in nearby locations. With its focus on adventure, the hotel encourages guests to embrace the natural beauty of the area while enjoying comfortable accommodations that complement their thrilling experiences.

Where to stay near Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach offers a delightful escape with its pristine sands and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and romance. Explore the stunning stretches of beach, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Kendwa Rocks, and witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vivid hues. Additionally, experience the rich culture of Zanzibar Island, just a short distance away, making it an ideal base for excursions and leisurely strolls along the coast.

  • Mahonda: Located 25.7km away from Kendwa Beach, Mahonda offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy areas. This charming city is less frequented, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil beach experience. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque beaches and nearby islands, perfect for sunbathing or exploring nature. Mahonda's appeal lies in its laid-back atmosphere, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy the beauty of the Tanzanian coastline.
  • Nungwi: Just 3.2km from Kendwa Beach, Nungwi is a vibrant coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. The area is a hub for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as snorkelling and diving, as well as relaxing resorts and theatres for evening entertainment. The atmosphere here is lively, especially between January and March, when visitor numbers peak. With its family-friendly beaches and access to nearby islands, Nungwi is an excellent choice for those looking to combine relaxation with adventure.
  • Kendwa: Also situated 3.2km from Kendwa Beach, Kendwa is a picturesque city known for its breathtaking coastline and outdoor activities. The area attracts visitors looking for both relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for water sports, resort stays, and cultural experiences. Kendwa's beaches are famous for their soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect family destination. The peak travel periods in January to February and September bring a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Things to do in Kendwa Beach

Shopping

Kendwa Beach offers local craft stalls and small shops where you can buy handmade souvenirs and beachwear. If you're up for a drive, head to Nungwi Village, about 16.1km away, where you'll find vibrant markets with a variety of traditional Tanzanian handicrafts and textiles.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Zuri Zanzibar Spa, where you can indulge in traditional African healing treatments and soothing massages. For a serene escape, join yoga sessions at the beach, connecting with nature while improving your wellness and mindfulness amidst the tranquil surroundings of Kendwa Beach.

Adventure

Kendwa Beach offers an array of thrilling activities, including snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs, exhilarating kite surfing, and sunset dhow cruises. For those seeking excitement on land, beach volleyball and local cultural tours provide engaging ways to immerse oneself in the stunning coastal atmosphere.

Nightlife

Kendwa Beach offers vibrant nightlife with beach bars like Kendwa Rocks, where you can enjoy live music and dance under the stars. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Sunset Kendwa for cocktails by the sea, perfect for unwinding after a day of sun and sand.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kendwa Beach

To save money during your visit to Kendwa Beach, consider travelling in the off-peak months of April to May and November for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays typically offer the best rates, while Thursdays are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia’s tools to filter for budget-friendly options and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. Additionally, explore free local attractions and enjoy affordable public transport to navigate the area efficiently.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kendwa Beach are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Kendwa Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kendwa Beach is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Kendwa Beach is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can benefit from significant savings by combining your hotel reservation at Kendwa Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach in Unguja North Region, Tanzania, is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the stunning white sands of Kendwa and Nungwi Beach, while indulging in outdoor activities. The vibrant Kendwa village and nearby tennis stadium add to the charm, making it one of the best beach destinations in Zanzibar. Enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in this beautiful coastal haven.

  • Nungwi Beach: Located 3.2km from Kendwa Beach, Nungwi Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with its stunning white sands and azure waters. This popular spot is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and socialising, making it a lively destination for beach lovers.
  • Mnemba Island: Situated 12.9km from Kendwa Beach, Mnemba Island is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and outdoor experiences. This private island is a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life.
  • Tazari Caves: Just 3.2km away from Kendwa Beach, Tazari Caves invite adventure seekers to explore their intriguing formations. The caves offer a unique outdoor experience, perfect for those looking to uncover the natural wonders of the region.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kendwa Beach

To reach Kendwa Beach, the primary airport options are Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), located 51.5km away, and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, 123.9km distant. Nearby Zanzibar International, you’ll find the luxurious Park Hyatt Zanzibar and the Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport, both offering convenient access and various transportation services. For those opting to fly into Dar es Salaam, the Sea Cliff Hotel and Onomo Hotel Dar es Salaam are excellent choices, providing shuttle services to the airport. Pemba Island Airport (PMA), 80.5km away, also serves as an alternative, with accommodations like Fundu Lagoon and Misali Beach nearby.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Kendwa Beach?
If you're planning to come to the area to visit Kendwa Beach, take some time to see the rest of the sights while you're in town. Travellers love the area for its beautiful beaches. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 45 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.
What's the best hotel to stay near Kendwa Beach?
Adjacent to Kendwa Beach, Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers a full-service spa and 3 bars. Other good options within a short distance include Hotel Riu Palace Swahili - All Inclusive - Adults Only and Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar - All Inclusive.
How many hotels will I be able to find close to Kendwa Beach?
Expedia has 45 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Kendwa Beach.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Kendwa Beach, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then use the filter option "fully refundable" to get the best deals near Kendwa Beach.
What can I see and do near Kendwa Beach?
Create some family memories at Nungwi Natural Aquarium and Mnarani Natural Aquarium. Explore nature at Nungwi Beach and Tazari Caves. If you want to see more of the surrounding area, you can plan a visit to Simba Padel and Nungwi Sunrise Point.

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