Discovering Paje: Zanzibar’s Watersports Paradise and Bohemian Dream

If you’ve ever dreamed about a place where palm trees whisper stories to the ocean breeze and turquoise waters stretch endlessly towards the horizon, then welcome to Paje. Situated on Zanzibar’s southeastern coast, Paje is more than just another beautiful beach—it’s a vibrant, energetic destination where the adrenaline of kitesurfing meets the relaxed vibes of barefoot living. Whether you’re chasing waves, seeking wellness, or simply dreaming about your next beach holiday, Paje offers an enchanting mix of adventure and relaxation, perfectly capturing the spirit of island life.

Nestled strategically between the serene village of Bwejuu to the north and the culturally rich Jambiani to the south, Paje serves as a perfect base for exploring Zanzibar’s wildly varied east coast. Spend your mornings on a kiteboard skimming across impossibly blue shallows, your afternoons sipping coconut water in a shaded hammock, and your evenings dancing under the stars or wandering the shoreline as the tides retreat.

But Paje isn’t just about the beach. One hour west lies Stone Town, the island’s historic soul—known locally as Mji Mkongwe—where carved Swahili doors open into tales of sultans, spice merchants, and revolution. Here, island rhythms slow to the clang of church bells and the call to prayer, creating a contrast that makes every return to Paje’s wide-open coast feel like rediscovering freedom.

Whether you’re planning a two-week retreat or just scouting the best beaches in Zanzibar, this guide to Paje will walk you through everything you need to know—where to stay, what to do, how to get around, and why so many travelers fall hard for this barefoot boho paradise.

Let’s dive in.

Things to Do in Paje: Adventure, Wellness, and Culture

Paje may be renowned for its spectacular beaches, but its charm extends far beyond mere sunbathing. This vibrant seaside village offers an array of thrilling watersports, immersive cultural experiences, and wellness activities that combine to create the ideal Zanzibar holiday experience.

Kitesurfing: Paje’s Claim to Fame

Undoubtedly, the adrenaline heart of Paje is kitesurfing. Thanks to its ideal location, Paje boasts consistent trade winds, warm shallow waters, and pristine white sands, making it one of the best kitesurfing spots in Africa. Numerous kitesurfing schools, such as Zanzibar Kite Paradise and Kite Centre Zanzibar, offer lessons and equipment rentals suitable for beginners and advanced surfers alike. Feel the rush of gliding over crystal-clear waters with the wind in your sails—a genuinely unforgettable experience.

Snorkeling and Diving: Explore Beneath the Waves

Beyond kitesurfing, the waters around Paje teem with marine life and colorful coral reefs, making snorkeling and diving popular activities. Excursions to nearby snorkeling hotspots like the Blue Lagoon offer encounters with vibrant coral gardens, exotic fish, and even playful dolphins. Dive centers like Buccaneer Diving offer diving trips and certifications, catering to divers of all skill levels. Dive in, and lose yourself in Zanzibar’s breathtaking underwater wonderland.

Seaweed Farming Tours: Connect with Local Traditions

Seaweed farming is not only economically vital to Zanzibar but culturally significant as well. Explore the seaweed plantations stretching along Paje’s shores, and discover the fascinating process behind this sustainable local industry. Notably, neighboring Jambiani is even more renowned for its seaweed farming, offering visitors deeper insights into this fascinating tradition.

Yoga and Wellness: Nourish Body and Mind

After days of thrilling watersports, unwind at one of Paje’s many yoga and wellness retreats. Centers like Paje by Night Yoga and Zanzibar Yoga Retreat offer daily classes, meditation sessions, and holistic treatments, providing balance and tranquility amidst the island’s exhilarating energy.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace Authentic Zanzibar

Immerse yourself in authentic Zanzibari culture by exploring local villages near Paje, such as Bwejuu and Jambiani. Engage with community artisans, sample traditional Swahili cuisine, or join a guided village tour to gain meaningful insights into local life. These cultural interactions enhance your holiday, transforming a simple beach vacation into a truly memorable journey.

Where to Eat in Paje: From Beach Cafés to Seafood Feasts

Dining in Paje is a true sensory experience. With its breezy beachfront cafés, atmospheric restaurants, and a generous helping of Swahili flavors, Paje’s culinary scene is a delicious highlight of any holiday. What sets it apart is the sheer vibrancy of its beach restaurants and bars—many of them just steps from the tide line, where your toes stay sandy and the sea breeze never leaves your table. Whether you’re grabbing a smoothie bowl after yoga, sipping grilled octopus under lantern light, or enjoying a chilled cocktail to the beat of sunset DJ sets, dining in Paje is about more than just food—it’s about feeling the island come alive around you.

Mr. Kahawa

This iconic café is a favorite among digital nomads and beach lovers alike. Located right on the beach, Mr. Kahawa serves up strong coffee, fresh juices, and a range of healthy, organic meals. The cozy cushions, sea breeze, and relaxed vibe make it the perfect spot to work remotely, read a book, or simply people-watch with a smoothie in hand.

Paje by Night Restaurant

Part of the Paje by Night hotel, this laid-back restaurant delivers a casual mix of Swahili, Italian, and Indian dishes. The garden setting, friendly service, and occasional live music add to its charm. Don’t miss their seafood pasta or the grilled octopus.

Hello Capitano

Set right on the beach, Hello Capitano is effortlessly cool, with wooden decks, shaded tables, and a rustic-chic vibe that invites you to stay a little longer. The food is Mediterranean with Zanzibari influences—think grilled calamari, seafood linguine, and bright salads—alongside cold rosé and craft cocktails. It’s casual, but with just enough polish to feel special. Great for sunset.

Rooftop Restaurant

As the name suggests, this restaurant offers incredible panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It’s an ideal place for a sunset dinner, with a diverse menu that includes seafood, curries, and grilled meats. The rooftop ambiance, paired with ocean breezes, makes it one of the more romantic spots in Paje.

Delight Zanzibar

A cozy beachside restaurant known for its locally inspired dishes, especially seafood. From grilled lobster to Zanzibari fish curry, the menu is a flavorful homage to the island’s rich culinary traditions. The casual setting and attentive service make it perfect for both lunch and dinner.

Roots Restaurant

Roots is a backpacker-favorite known for great prices, large portions, and chill vibes. Set in a leafy courtyard just steps from the beach, the restaurant is especially popular for breakfast and dinner. Their wood-fired pizzas and Swahili stews are especially recommended.

Oxygen Restaurant

Oxygen blends contemporary flair with local flavors. Located in the heart of Paje, this chic eatery is a hotspot for seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, served in a stylish, beach-inspired setting. With a resident DJ, colorful cocktails, and a sleek design, it’s also a great place to start your night.

The Nest Restaurant

Located within the boutique eco-resort of the same name, The Nest offers an elevated dining experience without losing Paje’s signature barefoot soul. Their menu leans fresh and creative: grilled catch of the day, homemade gnocchi, vegan mezze platters, and craft desserts made with local ingredients. Ideal for dinner after a spa session or a romantic evening under the stars.

ZanziBarista

ZanziBarista is your go-to for caffeine, pastries, and wholesome bites in a breezy, minimalist setting. Located just off the beach, it’s popular with digital nomads and early risers. Expect excellent espresso, smoothie bowls, shakshuka, and friendly service. Come for breakfast or a quiet refuel after a morning on the water.

Nightlife in Paje: Where the Island Comes Alive After Sunset

Though it may not have the thumping party scene of Nungwi, Paje knows how to throw a beach party—just with a little more soul and a lot more sand in your toes. The nightlife here is vibrant but laid-back, with music, dancing, and cocktails flowing under star-filled skies.

B4 Beach Club

Arguably the heartbeat of Paje’s party scene, B4 Beach Club is where you go when you want to dance hard and stay out late. With international DJs spinning everything from house to Afrobeats, the energy here is electric. The club also serves food and hosts themed nights, from white parties to retro evenings.

Paje by Night

By day, a relaxing garden retreat; by night, a buzzing social hub. The bar here hosts fire shows, DJ nights, and live music events several times a week. It’s a central point where kitesurfers, travelers, and locals come together to unwind, drink, and mingle.

Hi Skybar

Perched above Paje with views that stretch across the coastline, Hi Skybar is perfect for pre-dinner cocktails or watching the sun dip below the palms. The bar’s laid-back energy, comfy seating, and curated music playlists make it a popular choice for a mellow night out.

3C Beach Club

This venue doubles as a restaurant and entertainment space, hosting live bands, themed dinners, and open-mic nights. It’s great for groups or solo travelers who want a friendly and lively place to meet others while enjoying drinks right on the beach.

SBH Monica Zanzibar

For something a little more low-key, head to SBH Monica on Friday nights. Their barbecue nights attract a fun crowd of guests and locals, with grilled seafood, tasty drinks, and live acoustic music under the stars.

Day Trips from Paje: Beyond the Beach

Paje is ideally situated for exploring more of Zanzibar’s natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re into forest walks, snorkeling safaris, or Swahili history, you’ll find memorable excursions just a short drive away.

Jozani Forest

A 30-minute drive inland, Jozani Forest is Zanzibar’s only national park and the best place to spot the rare red colobus monkeys. Walk along forest trails, visit the mangrove boardwalk, and soak in the island’s unique biodiversity. Early mornings are best for wildlife sightings, and guides are available at the park entrance.

Stone Town

Spend a day exploring Zanzibar’s cultural heart—Stone Town, or Mji Mkongwe, as it’s locally known. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of winding alleys, centuries-old coral-stone buildings, spice markets, and intricately carved Swahili doors. History whispers from every corner: visit the haunting Old Slave Market, the imposing House of Wonders, and the buzzing Darajani Market, where island life hums at full volume. After a morning of exploration, cool down with a fresh juice or Zanzibari lunch at a rooftop café overlooking the harbor, watching dhows drift through the turquoise waters. It’s a full-on sensory adventure that balances perfectly with the beach life back in Paje—and at just an hour away, it’s an essential day trip.

Safari Blue Tour

One of Zanzibar’s most popular excursions, the Safari Blue tour departs from Fumba (about 1.5 hours from Paje) and takes guests on a dhow cruise through Menai Bay Conservation Area. Enjoy snorkeling, dolphin sightings, sandbank lounging, and a seafood feast on a remote island.

Kuza Cave

Just south of Paje near Jambiani lies Kuza Cave, a natural limestone cavern with a crystal-clear freshwater pool. The cave is open for swimming, meditation, and exploration, and there’s a cultural center nearby where you can learn about Swahili music, dance, and food. It’s a hidden gem and perfect for a peaceful morning outing.

Village Hopping: Visit Bwejuu and Jambiani for Local Flavor

One of the best things about staying in Paje is how easily you can explore the neighboring villages along Zanzibar’s southeast coast. Both Bwejuu and Jambiani are just a short walk, bike ride, or scooter trip away—and they offer very different, but equally authentic, slices of island life.

Bwejuu: Peace, Palms, and Postcard Silence

Just ten minutes north of Paje, Bwejuu is where time seems to pause. This sleepy coastal village is known for its slow pace, wide sandy beach, and near-total serenity. It’s the kind of place where your footprints might be the only ones in the sand all morning.

Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and anyone in search of solitude, Bwejuu invites long, reflective beach walks, breezy hammock sessions, and quiet moments under the rustle of coconut palms. There are no beach parties here—just the sound of waves, the breeze in the trees, and maybe a dhow boat gliding across the horizon.

Bwejuu also offers a few low-key, eco-friendly lodges and boutique stays, perfect for a digital detox or romantic escape. It’s the introvert’s answer to Zanzibar beach life.

Jambiani: Culture, Color, and Coastal Energy

To the south of Paje lies Jambiani, a larger and livelier village with a rich cultural pulse. Known for its traditional fishing culture and extensive seaweed farming, Jambiani gives you an up-close view of Zanzibari coastal life. Here, women in colorful kangas gather seaweed during low tide, while fishermen haul in the day’s catch in wooden ngalawa canoes.

The beach here is stunning—less polished than Paje, but no less beautiful. It’s also more animated, with kids playing football in the sand, elders chatting under shade trees, and locals always ready with a warm “Karibu.”

Jambiani’s accommodation scene has grown in recent years, with a number of charming guesthouses, eco-lodges, and beachfront restaurants popping up along the coast. It’s a great place to sample home-cooked Swahili meals, join a drumming circle, or book a seaweed farm tour to learn how this sustainable industry supports local women.

A Tale of Three Villages

Spending time in Bwejuu and Jambiani gives you a fuller sense of what life on this stretch of coast is really like. From Bwejuu’s quiet mornings to Jambiani’s lively, seaweed-scented afternoons, each village has its own personality. Paje sits right in the middle—geographically and in vibe—offering a balance of barefoot calm and beach energy. You don’t need an itinerary to explore them. Just hop on a bike, follow the shoreline, and see where the tide takes you.

Where to Stay in Paje: From Luxury Villas to Beachfront Bungalows

Paje’s diverse accommodation options cater to every kind of traveler, from those seeking indulgent escapes to budget-conscious adventurers looking for barefoot charm. Whether you’re drawn to the barefoot luxury of a private villa or the laid-back vibe of a beach bungalow, Paje has a stay that fits your vision of the perfect Zanzibar vacation.

Luxury Escapes

For travelers in search of refined relaxation, Mahali Zanzibar is a standout choice. This seafront hotel is known for its Swahili-inspired architecture, stylish interiors, and an infinity pool that looks out over the turquoise horizon. Waking up to the sight of palm trees and the ocean just beyond your balcony feels less like a dream and more like the new normal.

Another top-tier option is White Sands, where private beach villas nestle within lush tropical gardens. With a world-class spa, on-site fine dining, and one of the most secluded beachfronts in Paje, it’s an ideal hideaway for honeymooners or those who simply want to unwind in style. The design strikes a delicate balance between opulence and nature, delivering a five-star experience without disrupting the serenity of the coastline.

Also worth noting is The Nest Boutique Resort, an eco-luxury property that takes sustainability seriously without compromising on comfort. Guests can choose from villas or whimsical treehouse suites, all surrounded by greenery and beach views. A tranquil pool, spa services, an on-site vegetarian restaurant, and a wellness-friendly environment make this a top pick for mindful travelers and families looking for a more curated island experience.

Comfortable Mid-Range Choices

If you’re looking for a cozy place with charm and comfort, Paje Beach Apartments & Hotel delivers exactly that. The rooms are spacious and breezy, many offering ocean views and direct access to the sand. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want reliable comfort, modern amenities, and the beach right at their doorstep—without spending extravagantly.

Cristal Resort is another excellent mid-range choice, known for its warm hospitality and unbeatable beachfront location. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it ideal for couples, small families, or solo travelers who want to wake up to the sound of the waves and end the day under the stars, cocktail in hand.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Travelers on a budget will feel right at home in Paje. Summer Dream Lodge is a favorite among backpackers, offering affordable rooms, a vibrant garden lounge, and a social atmosphere that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers. It’s not just about price here—there’s a real sense of community, which gives the place a special kind of charm.

Just a short walk from the beach, Aluna Paje provides simple yet stylish rooms in a tranquil setting. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, with hammocks, outdoor showers, and a garden that catches the breeze. It’s ideal for those who want comfort and calm, without sacrificing proximity to the sea or nightlife.

Unique and Alternative Nearby Stays

For those who prefer something a bit more unconventional, Paje offers a scattering of beachfront bungalows and eco-lodges that emphasize rustic elegance and a closer connection to the natural surroundings. Many of these places prioritize sustainability, community involvement, and a minimal footprint—perfect for slow travelers who want authenticity over amenities.

If you’re up for exploring just beyond Paje, neighboring villages offer enticing alternatives. Bwejuu, to the north, is all about peace and seclusion. It’s a quiet stretch of coast with a few boutique lodges that feel wonderfully removed from the world. Jambiani, to the south, has a more lived-in feel, with guesthouses nestled in between seaweed farms and fishing boats. Staying here adds a cultural richness to your holiday while keeping you within easy reach of Paje’s restaurants, watersports, and nightlife.

Wherever you choose to sleep, one thing’s certain: waking up in Paje means waking up to sunlight, sea air, and that unmistakable sense that the day is yours to shape.

Getting to Paje: Your Journey Begins Here

Your adventure to Paje typically starts at Zanzibar International Airport, just outside Stone Town. From here, Paje is a picturesque one-hour drive through lush forests, spice plantations, and local villages—a scenic introduction to the island’s unique landscape and culture.

Airport and Stone Town Transfers

Most travelers opt for a private taxi from the airport, typically costing between $35 and $45. This is the quickest and most convenient option, especially after a long flight. Alternatively, shared shuttles and local buses (dala dalas) are available for budget-conscious travelers. These public buses offer a truly local experience, but expect a crowded and colorful journey.

From Stone Town, the journey to Paje is similarly straightforward. Taxis and shuttles are readily available, and the trip typically lasts around 50 minutes. For the truly adventurous, renting a scooter or bicycle in Stone Town and journeying to Paje is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s landscape.

Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Paje

When to Go
The best time to visit Paje is during the dry seasons: June to October and December to February. These months offer reliable winds for kitesurfing, clear skies, and fewer mosquitoes. The long rains (March to May) can make beach lounging less predictable, but you’ll have the place nearly to yourself.

Tides and Swimming
Paje is famous for its dramatic tides. At low tide, the water can recede far from shore, exposing rippled sandbanks and tide pools. While it may not always be ideal for swimming, it creates otherworldly scenery and offers great walking opportunities. Always check tide charts, especially if you’re planning boat trips or kiting sessions.

Money Matters
The Tanzanian Shilling is the local currency, though US dollars are accepted in many places. ATMs are limited, so bring some cash from Stone Town or the airport. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and resorts, but not universally.

Connectivity and Wi-Fi
Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, though speeds can vary. Cafés like Mr. Kahawa have better connections and are popular among digital nomads. Mobile data is affordable—buy a local SIM card for broader access.

Cultural Etiquette
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and modest dress is appreciated when away from the beach. Cover shoulders and knees when walking through villages, and always ask before taking photos of locals. Learning a few Swahili phrases like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you) goes a long way.

Health and Safety
Wear mosquito repellent, especially in the evenings. Drink bottled water, and don’t forget sunscreen—the equatorial sun is intense. Paje is generally safe, but take standard precautions: don’t leave valuables on the beach, and avoid walking alone late at night on unlit paths.

Paje vs. Nungwi: Choosing the Right Zanzibar Beach for Your Holiday

If you’re comparing Zanzibar destinations for your beach vacation, chances are you’ve heard of Nungwi. It’s the island’s best-known beach—bustling, developed, and perpetually swim-friendly. But don’t discount Paje too quickly. These two beaches offer very different experiences, and your ideal choice depends entirely on the kind of holiday you crave.

Paje: Bohemian Soul and Watersports Heaven

Paje is a dream for kitesurfers, adventure seekers, and laid-back travelers who love their sun-drenched days mixed with a little culture and authenticity. The beach is long and wide, with powdery white sand and jaw-dropping turquoise tides that shift dramatically throughout the day.

When the tide is high, it’s perfect for swimming and kitesurfing. When it recedes, it reveals ripple-textured sandbars that stretch into the sea—great for beach walks and wading. While this tidal pattern may frustrate those expecting to swim at all hours, it gives the beach a unique, ever-changing character that’s part of Paje’s charm.

Add to that a vibrant yet unpretentious nightlife, a strong kitesurfing community, and a range of accommodations from boutique to budget, and you’ve got a destination that feels real, raw, and unforgettable.

Nungwi: All-Tide Swimming and Resort Comfort

Nungwi, located on Zanzibar’s northern tip, is the go-to for travelers wanting a classic beach resort vibe with smooth logistics. The tides here don’t recede much, so you can swim any time of day. The beach itself is narrower and busier, flanked by upscale resorts, beach bars, and sunset-facing lounges.

Nungwi is also the nightlife capital of Zanzibar, with larger crowds, more clubs, and frequent parties that go late into the night. If your ideal vacation includes sundowners at rooftop bars, beach raves, and polished facilities, Nungwi may be your scene.

But with popularity comes crowds, and Nungwi can feel over-commercialized, particularly during high season. Those seeking peace or authenticity may find it overwhelming.

Jambiani and Bwejuu: Quieter Alternatives

For travelers seeking something quieter than either Paje or Nungwi, the neighboring beaches of Jambiani and Bwejuu offer gentle alternatives.

Jambiani, just south of Paje, is still immersed in local life. Expect sleepy days, friendly smiles, and a growing eco-lodge scene. It’s also home to some of the best seaweed farming tours on the island.

Bwejuu, to the north, offers serenity above all else. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, and those who want to hear the ocean rather than the bass drop.

Thanks to Paje’s central location, staying here allows you to sample both extremes: the authenticity of Jambiani and the calm of Bwejuu—without sacrificing energy, activities, or great food.

Why Paje Might Just Be the Best Beach in Zanzibar

It’s easy to fall in love with Paje. Here, days start with yoga or a sunrise swim and end with cocktails under the stars. In between, you might kitesurf across turquoise waters, sip fresh mango juice in a hammock, or take a barefoot walk down the endless shoreline. You’ll meet travelers who came for a week and stayed for a season. You’ll hear ten languages spoken in one beach bar and still feel right at home.

What sets Paje apart is its versatility. Want adrenaline? Kitesurfing and diving are right outside your room. Want rest? There are hammocks, wellness retreats, and tide pools made for floating. Want culture? Just wander down to the village or take a seaweed tour in Jambiani. Want connection? From hostel common rooms to beach bonfires, the community vibe is strong.

It’s also an excellent base for day trips across Zanzibar. Whether you’re heading into Stone Town’s historical maze or chasing dolphins on a Safari Blue tour, everything is within reach—yet far enough that the pace in Paje stays blissfully easygoing.

And unlike the more polished north coast, Paje hasn’t lost its local soul. It’s still a place where fishermen push dhows into the surf each morning and children chase crabs across the sand at sunset. It’s still a place where your barista might also be your surf instructor, and where locals and travelers genuinely mix.

Final Thoughts: Is Paje Right for Your Zanzibar Vacation?

If you’re researching the best beaches in Zanzibar, especially if you’re torn between north and south, here’s the bottom line:

Choose Paje if you:

• Love kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkeling, or other watersports
• Prefer a slightly bohemian, independent-traveler atmosphere
• Enjoy authentic cultural experiences and scenic day trips
• Want to be close to quieter villages like Jambiani and Bwejuu
• Are happy adapting to tides and natural rhythms

Choose Nungwi if you:

• Want constant swim-ready water with minimal tidal change
• Prefer a highly developed beach with all-inclusive resorts
• Are looking for nightlife and a party-centric vibe
• Value convenience over authenticity

Choose Jambiani or Bwejuu if you:

• Crave peace, solitude, and fewer tourists
• Prefer locally owned lodges and a slower pace
• Want to deeply immerse yourself in village life

Ultimately, Paje offers the best of both worlds—energy and calm, action and rest, adventure and simplicity. Whether you’re coming to Zanzibar for kitesurfing thrills, sun-drenched escapes, or a culturally rich holiday experience, Paje is a beach that doesn’t just tick boxes—it surprises you. And once you’ve been here, you’ll understand why so many travelers return again and again.

Zanzibar has many faces. Paje just might be its most captivating.

Karibu Paje. The tide is calling.