Top 10 things to do on private islands during a Zanzibar beach tour from reef diving and dhow cruises to spa treatments, stargazing, and private sandbank picnics.
Zanzibar beach tours to private islands offer a rare blend of privacy, marine beauty, and tailored experiences that go far beyond typical resort stays. These islands are designed for travelers who value space, quiet, and meaningful activities. Whether you're snorkeling untouched reefs, enjoying a sandbank picnic, or sailing on a sunset dhow, every moment is curated to match your pace and preferences. With no crowds or day-trippers, the focus shifts to quality time whether that means learning Swahili cooking, stargazing from your own beach, or simply doing nothing at all. A Zanzibar beach tour to private islands is not just about where you stay, but how you spend your time.
What makes these islands stand out is the variety of things to do that balance relaxation with adventure. From kayaking through mangroves to indulging in spa treatments using local spices, each activity adds depth to your Zanzibar beach tour. You’re not just visiting a destination you’re engaging with it through food, nature, and culture. These experiences are designed to be personal, flexible, and memorable. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a solo retreat, or a quiet family getaway, private islands in Zanzibar offer the kind of coastal rhythm that turns a simple beach tour into a high-value, well-rounded holiday
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Best 10 Things to Do on Private Islands During Zanzibar Beach Tour
The Ultimate Private Sandbank Picnic
During your Zanzibar beach tour, a private sandbank picnic offers unmatched seclusion and comfort. You’ll be taken by boat to a deserted sandbank surrounded by turquoise waters, where a gourmet picnic and chilled champagne await. With no one else around, it’s the perfect setting for couples or small groups seeking privacy. Snorkeling nearby reveals vibrant marine life in clear, shallow reefs. This experience is a highlight of any Zanzibar beach tour, combining exclusivity with natural beauty in a way that feels personal and peaceful.
Snorkel or Dive a Pristine House Reef
A Zanzibar beach tour on a private island often includes direct access to untouched coral reefs. These house reefs are protected from daily traffic, making them ideal for snorkeling or diving. You can step right off the beach into a world of colorful fish, rays, and turtles. The reef’s health and clarity make it a top choice for underwater exploration. For divers, having a world-class site just meters from your villa is a rare privilege. This reef experience adds depth to your Zanzibar beach tour, offering both relaxation and adventure in one setting.
Sunset Dhow Cruise with Sundowners
A traditional dhow cruise is a must during any Zanzibar beach tour. As the sun sets, you’ll sail along the island’s coast in a private wooden boat, sipping cocktails and enjoying light bites. The calm waters and changing sky colors create a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for winding down. This activity adds a cultural touch to your Zanzibar beach tour, blending local tradition with personalized service. It’s a quiet, elegant way to end the day and appreciate the island’s natural rhythm from the water.
Indulge in a Bespoke Spa Treatment
Private island spas elevate wellness during your Zanzibar beach tour with treatments in open-air pavilions or beachfront setups. Using local ingredients like Zanzibar spices, coconut oil, and seaweed, therapists craft sessions that soothe and restore. Whether on your villa terrace or by the ocean, the setting enhances every moment. These bespoke treatments are tailored to your needs, making relaxation a central part of your Zanzibar beach tour. It’s not just about pampering it’s about resetting in a space designed for peace and comfort.
Master the Art of Swahili Cuisine
Cooking classes are a flavorful addition to your Zanzibar beach tour. Learn Swahili culinary techniques from a local chef, using fresh ingredients sourced from spice gardens or nearby markets. Dishes like coconut seafood curry and pilau rice come to life through hands-on preparation. After the lesson, enjoy your creations in a private setting. This experience adds cultural depth to your Zanzibar beach tour, connecting you to the island’s flavors and traditions in a personal, interactive way that goes beyond typical dining.
Stargaze from Your Own Beach
With minimal light pollution, stargazing becomes a magical part of your Zanzibar beach tour. Lie back on the sand or a lounger and watch the Milky Way stretch across the sky. Some resorts offer telescopes or guides to help identify constellations, but the real joy is in the quiet and clarity. This nighttime activity adds a peaceful dimension to your Zanzibar beach tour, allowing you to connect with nature in a way that’s both simple and profound. It’s a reminder of how remote and special your location truly is.
Kayak or Paddleboard Through Mangrove Forests
Exploring mangroves by kayak or paddleboard adds a unique layer to your Zanzibar beach tour. These ecosystems, especially around Menai Bay, are rich in birdlife and marine species. Glide through calm channels and observe the intricate root systems and quiet beauty of the forest. It’s a low-impact, peaceful way to engage with the island’s natural surroundings. This activity complements your Zanzibar beach tour by offering a slower, more reflective experience that contrasts with open-water adventures and beach relaxation.
Enjoy a Private Beachfront Candlelit Dinner
A beachfront dinner is a romantic highlight of any Zanzibar beach tour. On a private island, it’s taken to another level with personalized service, lantern-lit tables, and a chef-curated menu. Dine with your feet in the sand under a starry sky, attended by a dedicated butler. This intimate setting makes your Zanzibar beach tour feel tailored and memorable. It’s not just about the food it’s about the atmosphere, the privacy, and the sense of being completely cared for in a beautiful, natural space.
Deep Sea Fishing for the Big Game
Add excitement to your Zanzibar beach tour with a deep-sea fishing trip. Charter a private boat and head into rich waters to target marlin, tuna, sailfish, and dorado. The thrill of the catch is matched by the option to have your fish prepared by the resort chef. This “catch and cook” experience adds a fresh, interactive element to your Zanzibar beach tour. It’s ideal for guests who enjoy sport and want to connect with the ocean in a hands-on, rewarding way.
Simply Do Nothing at All
Sometimes the best part of a Zanzibar beach tour is doing absolutely nothing. Relax in a hammock, read a book, or listen to the waves with a drink nearby. On a private island, this simplicity becomes luxury. No schedules, no interruptions just time to unwind. This quiet space is a core part of your Zanzibar beach tour, offering mental and physical rest in a setting designed for calm. It’s a reminder that true relaxation doesn’t need an agenda it just needs the right place
Best time for Zanzibar beach tour at Zanzibar private islands
The best time for a Zanzibar beach tour at Zanzibar private islands is during the dry season, from June to October. These months offer sunny skies, low humidity, and calm seas ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, dhow cruises, and private sandbank picnics. Water visibility is excellent, making reef exploration and diving especially rewarding. Resorts operate at full capacity, and the weather supports everything from beachfront dinners to spa treatments. If your Zanzibar beach tour includes private island stays, this season ensures smooth logistics, reliable marine conditions, and uninterrupted relaxation across the archipelago.
From December to early March, Zanzibar experiences a second dry window with warm temperatures and clear skies, making it another great time for a Zanzibar beach tour. This period is popular for holiday travel, so early booking is essential for private island accommodations. Activities like stargazing, paddleboarding, and cooking classes are all available, and the ocean remains calm enough for deep-sea fishing and kayaking. While March can bring occasional showers, most days are still suitable for beach and water-based experiences. For travelers seeking a balance of privacy, comfort, and full access to island offerings, this season adds flexibility to your Zanzibar beach tour planning
How to get to private islands for things to do on Zanzibar beach tour
To reach private islands for activities on your Zanzibar beach tour, start by flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar. From there, resorts typically arrange private boat transfers to their islands, which can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on location. Some high-end properties offer direct speedboat or even helicopter transfers from the airport or mainland Tanzania. On your Zanzibar beach tour, these transfers are part of the experience offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and setting the tone for your stay. Always confirm transfer details with your resort in advance to ensure smooth timing and coordination throughout your Zanzibar beach tour.
Top attractions to combine with private islands during Zanzibar beach tour
During your Zanzibar beach tour, combining private island stays with a visit to Stone Town adds cultural depth and historical context. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers winding alleys, spice markets, and landmarks like the Old Fort and the House of Wonders. It’s a great contrast to the quiet of private islands giving you a chance to explore Swahili architecture, taste local street food, and shop for handmade crafts. Many travelers start or end their Zanzibar beach tour in Stone Town, making it a convenient and enriching stop that complements the relaxation and exclusivity of island life.
Another top attraction to pair with private islands on your Zanzibar beach tour is the Jozani Forest Reserve. Located on the main island, it’s home to the rare red colobus monkey and a variety of bird and butterfly species. A guided walk through the forest and mangrove boardwalk offers a refreshing change from beach activities. This nature-focused experience adds biodiversity and eco-awareness to your Zanzibar beach tour, especially for travelers interested in conservation. It’s easily accessible from most private island resorts and can be done as a half-day trip, making it a practical and rewarding addition to your itinerary
What to carry for Zanzibar beach tour to private islands
For a Zanzibar beach tour to private islands, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and a wide-brim hat for sun protection. Include water shoes or sandals for walking on coral or sandbanks, plus a dry bag for electronics during boat transfers. A good pair of sunglasses, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle are essential. Bring snorkeling gear if not provided, and a light cover-up or shawl for breezy evenings. For added comfort, carry a book, travel-size toiletries, and any personal medications. A waterproof phone case and portable charger help capture and share moments without worry. These items ensure your Zanzibar beach tour is relaxed, well-prepared, and fully enjoyable across private island settings
Top places to stay during Zanzibar beach tour to private islands
Top places to stay during a Zanzibar beach tour to private islands include Mnemba Island Lodge, known for its barefoot luxury and direct access to pristine reefs, and Thanda Island, offering full-island exclusivity with tailored service and marine conservation experiences. Fanjove Island delivers eco-conscious stays with open-front bandas facing the ocean, while Chapwani Private Island provides intimate charm just minutes from Stone Town. These properties enhance your Zanzibar beach tour with privacy, personalized activities like dhow cruises and candlelit dinners, and access to untouched coral reefs. Each location is chosen for its setting, service, and ability to deliver a quiet, high-value island experience that complements the coastal rhythm of Zanzibar.
Why book Zanzibar beach tour with Dav safaris
Booking a Zanzibar beach tour with Dav Safaris ensures a seamless, personalized experience across private islands and coastal highlights. Our team understands the rhythm of Zanzibar from tide schedules to reef conditions and crafts itineraries that balance relaxation, marine activities, and cultural depth. Whether it’s arranging private sandbank picnics, dhow cruises, or exclusive beachfront stays, Dav Safaris handles every detail with precision and care. Our insider knowledge of island logistics, seasonal timing, and resort partnerships means your Zanzibar beach tour runs smoothly from arrival to departure. For travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and curated experiences, Dav Safaris delivers a high-value coastal escape tailored to your pace and preferences