Matemwe Beach: Best known for Local Culture & Scuba Diving

Location: Northeast coast – 40 km from Stone Town
Access: Approximately 1 hour by taxi or bus
Great for: Serene escapes and diving trips
Popular budget hotels: Salama & Mbuyuni Bungalows, Mchanga Zanzibar, Kiganja Retreat Zanzibar
Best luxury hotels: Matemwe Lodge, Zanzibar Sunrise, Emerald Zanzibar, Zanzibar Pearl

Matemwe Beach, on Zanzibar’s northeastern coast, is a tranquil and beautiful spot renowned for its laid-back vibe and magnificent coral reefs. For those looking for a more tranquil and relaxed experience, Matemwe is a great alternative to the lively Nungwi or Kendwa. With its powdery white sand and crystal blue waters, this beach is a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise, drawing in a wide variety of aquatic creatures.

The scenery at Matemwe Beach is constantly shifting due to the high tides. The best time to see marine life up close is at low tide, when the water recedes to expose the bottom and tidal pools. When the tide is out, the sea is alive and perfect for swimming and other aquatic activities.

Zanzibar Matemwe

Location & Accessibility

The capital of Zanzibar, Stone Town, is located about 53 kilometers away from Matemwe Beach. Public transportation is a possibility, but it isn’t very frequent, so passengers are better off taking cabs or renting cars for the 1.5-hour drive.

Natural Beauty:

Matemwe provides an unspoiled, natural setting. Lush palm trees and native flora surround the shore. Dolphins, turtles, and an abundance of fish inhabit the neighboring Mnemba Atoll, a marine preserve renowned for its abundant biodiversity. The striking color contrast between the turquoise sea and the white beach makes for an Instagram-worthy setting.

Water Sports & Activities:

Matemwe is less crowded than Nungwi but does have a lot of water sports, the most popular of which are snorkeling and scuba diving. Divers go to the neighboring Mnemba Atoll to see the colorful coral gardens and abundant underwater life. Another favorite activity is kayaking or paddleboarding, especially when the tide is out and the sea is calmer.

Matemwe Beach Accommodation

From luxurious resorts like the Matemwe Lodge to more affordable ones, Matemwe has something for everyone’s budget. Rooms or bungalows with ocean views are available at most hotels and resorts, making for a quiet, romantic getaway. Private plunge pools, spa treatments, and gourmet restaurants are common guest amenities that highlight the serene, romantic ambiance of the beach.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Matemwe does not have as many restaurants as other, livelier locations, but it does have a good selection. Resort restaurants typically serve a variety of international and regional dishes, and many of them welcome guests who aren’t staying at the resort. A common sight on most meals is seafood, freshly caught by fishermen in the area. Instead of rowdy clubs and discos, Matemwe residents prefer quiet beach bonfires, live music, and stargazing as their entertainment.

Cultural Experience

Matemwe may be most known as a beach resort, but those interested in local culture can also visit the fishing villages in the area. Traditional fishing techniques and rural life in Zanzibar are common sights to behold on tours. For a more hands-on cultural experience, several resorts and hotels also provide culinary workshops with a focus on Swahili cuisine.