Aerial view of turquoise water on Zanzibar's east coast

Day trips · North

Northern Circuit: Beaches, Starfish & Sunset Bars near Jambiani

Head north from Jambiani and the coast opens into a string of postcard beaches, snorkelling spots and barefoot sunset bars. It makes a perfect afternoon: start with snorkelling, linger over a long lunch, and end with cocktails as the sky turns gold. Here's how our team would do it.

The route

Seven stops up the east coast, north of Jambiani — roughly south to north, finishing at a sunset bar.

Map of the northern circuit day-trip stops on Zanzibar's east coast
Snorkelling among reef fish at Blue Lagoon, Zanzibar

01Blue Lagoon

The east coast's best-known snorkelling spot. You can wade in at low tide or hire a short boat from Pingwe Beach to reach the clearer water — calm, shallow and full of colour, ideal for first-timers and families.

The Rock Restaurant at sunset off Pingwe Beach, Zanzibar

02Pingwe Beach

A beautiful stretch that's home to the famous Rock Restaurant, perched on its own islet offshore. Worth a visit even for a drink; nearby you'll find boutique hotels for a relaxed afternoon — Upendo for boho style, and Balafia for wood-fired pizza and classic jazz.

Red starfish on the shallow flats, Zanzibar

03Starfish Walk

Wade out across the shallow flats and you'll find bright starfish scattered across the seabed. They're beautiful to admire and photograph — but please don't lift them out of the water: it's better for you and for the starfish to leave them where they are.

Aerial view of turquoise water at Pearl Beach, Zanzibar

04Pearl Beach

Quite possibly the most stunning view we've found on the island. The clifftop restaurant is worth the trip for a coffee or a long lunch with the ocean spread out beneath you.

Mangroves at low tide on a quiet walk, Zanzibar

05Mangrove Walk

A peaceful walk through the mangroves, just off the beaten path — shade, birdsong and a glimpse of the coastal ecosystem that protects this shore.

Beach bar and white sand at Kae Funk, Zanzibar

06Sunset at Kae Funk

A lively local sunset party — acrobats, a beach bonfire and a great vibe, with cocktails and snacks. One of the most fun ways to end the day on the east coast.

Wooden deck and sunset view at Mangroves Bar, Zanzibar

07Sunset at Mangroves Bar

A German-inspired, hip little bar hidden in the mangroves with a gorgeous sunset view. Quieter than Kae Funk and lovely for a calm evening drink.

Good to know

  • Most spots are an easy drive from Jambiani — reception can arrange transport and a guide.
  • Bring water, a hat, sunscreen and reef-safe shoes; tides matter for the beaches, so ask us about timing.
  • Carry small cash for entrances, drinks and tips.
  • Want it all arranged? See our Experiences or message us on WhatsApp.

Let us plan your day

Tell us what you'd love to see and we'll build the perfect route, with pickup from the resort.

Plan on WhatsApp
← Central Circuit All guides Southern Circuit →