Nungwi Beach

Nungwi, or Ras Nungwi, is a large village located in the far northern end of the island of Zanzibar. With a population of about 5,563, Nungwi is the second- or third-largest settlement on the island, possibly smaller than Makunduchi. It is situated in the Nungwi Ward in the Kaskazini A District of the Unguja North Region. It is about 35 miles (56 km) north of Zanzibar Town on the Nungwi Peninsula, about an hour drive from Stone Town. To the south Nungwi shares a border with the neighboring Matemwe- and Tazari villages. Nungwi was traditionally a fishing village and dhow-building center, but is now a popular tourist destination, and for instance recognized in CNN’s list of "100 best beaches of the world" in 2014. West Nungwi has changed a lot since the 1990s and is now a popular tourist destination with numerous resorts, restaurants, bars, stores, etc. East Nungwi is quieter and generally more laid-back.

Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar runs along the western coast to the northern tip of the island so it is witness to amazing sunset views, which will surely score points for those who want to get social media-worthy photos. Tourists can enjoy a drink on the rooftop bar as the sun sets over the tropical horizon. Locals also offer a sunset cruise on a Dhow boat. This is one of the reasons that make Nungwi a popular romantic destination for couples.

Mnarani Natural Aquarium is situated in the northern part of the village. The conservation site is run by locals and is focused on rescuing green and hawksbill turtles and releasing them during the month of February. Tourists can wade through the shallow waters during the low tide and see colorful shells and small marine animals. Local residents are also known to gather seafood in the tide pools just beyond the beach. Cows also tend to roam around the southern part of Nungwi beach, Zanzibar.

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As the sun sets, Nungwi Beach continues to thrive with its vibrant nightlife perfect for those who have fun with a few drinks in hand. Cholo’s Bar is the oldest bar in the village and it is host to parties on Thursday nights while Mangi’s Bar is the most popular bar in the village. It is a great place for a sunset drink just before the party starts.

A trip to Nungwi beach, Zanzibar will not be complete without tasting the local cuisine. Nungwi beach offers various restaurants that will cater to everyone’s tastes. Nungwi Beach Restaurants vary from French Fusion dishes, classic Italian, to local dishes tourists may want to try. The best place to try some local food is by the village market where Chef Bakery and Munira Restaurant is located. They are known for serving the best Zanzibar food in the village.

There are a lot of things to see around Nungwi Village and locals are very much used to seeing tourists. The village market is host to a lot of items from local fruits and vegetables to souvenir items. This is a good place to try more of the local delicacies and snacks such as date nut bread, fried plantains, and octopus and fried cassava. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are in almost every stall just in case you want to take some home. Remember to keep your shoulders and knees covered to respect the local culture.

Nungwi Beach is witness to centuries of different cultures and traditions, which evolved into their local identity. The beach is situated on an island that is an important location for the spice trade hence it has a mixture of Indian, Asian, European and African cultures. This can be seen in the locals’ livelihood, religion, values, and cuisine.

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