Best Things to Do at Paje Beach Zanzibar Now

Best Things to Do at Paje Beach Zanzibar Now

Find the best things to do at Paje beach Zanzibar now from kite-surfing and dhow trips to yoga, cooking classes, and village visits, all in one easy guide.


Experience the best of Paje beach Zanzibar, where laid-back vibes meet active adventures on one of the island’s most stunning coastlines. Known for its wide, powdery beach and shallow turquoise lagoon, Paje is a favorite for kite-surfing, paddleboarding, and dhow boat trips. Whether you're gliding across the water or watching colorful kites fill the sky, the energy here is playful and relaxed. The tides shape your day swim and paddle at high tide, then walk the sandbanks and explore tidal pools when the ocean recedes. With beachside massages, quad bike tours, and yoga sessions, Paje beach Zanzibar offers a mix of movement and calm that suits every traveler.


Beyond the beach, Paje connects you to Zanzibar’s culture and nature. Visit Kuza Cave for a freshwater swim and drumming workshop, or take a short trip to Jozani Forest to see the rare Red Colobus Monkeys. Cooking classes and village tours offer insight into local life, while seafood barbecues and sunset drinks bring flavor to your evenings. Paje beach Zanzibar isn’t just a place to relax it’s a place to engage, learn, and enjoy at your own pace. Whether you stay for a few days or longer, the variety of things to do ensures your time here is full, easygoing, and memorable

Best Things to Do at Paje Beach Zanzibar Now

Learn to Kite-Surf or Just Watch

 Kite-surfing is the top activity at Paje beach Zanzibar thanks to its steady wind and shallow lagoon. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, the conditions are ideal for learning or improving your skills. Book lessons with trusted schools like Kite Centre Zanzibar or Paje Kite School, where a beginner’s course usually takes 2–3 days. Even if you’re not into kite-surfing, watching the colorful kites fill the sky is a great way to enjoy Paje beach Zanzibar especially during sunset when the light makes everything pop. It’s active, social, and visually exciting, making it a great way to spend your time on the beach.


Take a Traditional Dhow Boat Trip

 A dhow boat trip is one of the most rewarding experiences at Paje beach Zanzibar. You’ll sail on a wooden vessel used for centuries, with options like snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, sandbank picnics, or sunset cruises. These trips offer a chance to swim in clear waters, spot dolphins, and enjoy fresh seafood while floating in the Indian Ocean. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day outing, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy the ocean beyond Paje beach Zanzibar. Booking through local operators ensures fair pricing and a more personal experience with guides who know the area well.


Relax on the Beach But Mind the Tides

 Paje beach Zanzibar is known for its beauty, but the tides change everything. At high tide, the water is deep and perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. At low tide, the ocean pulls back dramatically, revealing sandbanks and shallow pools. It’s not great for swimming then, but it’s perfect for long walks, shell collecting, and exploring tidal pools. Understanding the tide schedule helps you plan your day better at Paje beach Zanzibar. Many hotels post tide charts, so check before heading out. This way, you’ll know when to swim and when to explore without disappointment.


Go on a Quad Bike (ATV) Adventure

 A quad bike ride is a fun way to see more than just the sand at Paje beach Zanzibar. You can rent one and ride along the beach (check local rules) or take guided tours inland. These tours often pass through villages, spice farms, and quiet coastal paths. It’s a fast and flexible way to explore areas that are hard to reach on foot. Paje beach Zanzibar isn’t just about the ocean it’s surrounded by culture and nature worth seeing. Wear sunglasses and sunscreen, and confirm your route with the rental company to avoid restricted zones.


Indulge in a Beachside Massage

Getting a massage right on Paje beach Zanzibar is one of the easiest ways to relax. You’ll find local masseuses and small spas set up under palm trees offering Swedish and African-style massages. The sound of waves and the ocean breeze make it feel extra calming. Prices are usually low, and you don’t need to book far in advance. Just walk up, ask for a session, and enjoy. Paje beach Zanzibar has a laid-back vibe, and this is one of the best ways to enjoy it without doing much. It’s perfect after a kite-surfing lesson or a long walk.


Experience the Local Food and Vibe

Paje beach Zanzibar has a casual, bohemian feel with lots of places to eat and hang out. For sunset drinks, head to Kim’s Corner or Coral Beach for cocktails with your feet in the sand. Seafood lovers should try the beach barbecues octopus is a local favorite. If you want something more traditional, visit Uroa Restaurant or a small local spot for rice pilau, chapati, and grilled chicken. The food scene at Paje beach Zanzibar is relaxed and flavorful, with options for every budget. Ask locals for recommendations they often know the best places that aren’t on Google Maps.


Visit the Jozani Forest

Just a short drive from Paje beach Zanzibar, Jozani Forest is home to the rare Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys. These monkeys are calm around people, making it easy to take photos and observe their behavior. The forest also has a mangrove boardwalk that’s great for a slow walk and spotting crabs and birds. It’s a half-day trip that adds variety to your time at Paje beach Zanzibar. Go early to avoid crowds and heat, and bring insect repellent. Entry fees are affordable, and guides are available at the gate to explain the forest’s ecology and wildlife.


Explore the Kuza Cave

 Kuza Cave is a freshwater pool near Paje beach Zanzibar that’s great for swimming and relaxing. The water is clear and cool, perfect for a break from the sun. The site also hosts free drumming workshops and yoga sessions, adding a cultural touch to your visit. It’s quiet and well-maintained, with changing areas and seating. Paje beach Zanzibar is known for its beach life, but Kuza Cave offers something different freshwater, shade, and a peaceful vibe. It’s easy to reach by taxi or bike, and the entrance fee helps support local community projects.


Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Stand-up paddleboarding is a calm and fun way to enjoy the lagoon at Paje beach Zanzibar, especially during high tide when the water is glassy and clear. Rentals are available right on the beach, and you don’t need prior experience to get started. It’s a great workout and lets you glide over coral patches and spot fish below. For a peaceful session, go early in the morning when the beach is quiet. Paje beach Zanzibar is ideal for SUP because of its shallow, calm waters and wide open space, making it safe and enjoyable for all skill levels.


Take a Local Cooking Class

 If you’re curious about Zanzibari food, join a cooking class near Paje beach Zanzibar. Many local chefs offer hands-on lessons where you’ll learn to prepare dishes like coconut curry, pilau rice, and chapati using fresh spices and ingredients from the market. Classes often include a visit to a local farm or spice garden, adding context to what you’re cooking. It’s a fun way to connect with the culture and bring a taste of Paje beach Zanzibar home with you. Most classes are small and casual, so you’ll get personal attention and plenty of time to ask questions.


Visit a Local Village

Take a guided walk or bike ride to a nearby village to see daily life beyond Paje beach Zanzibar. You’ll meet locals, visit markets, and learn about traditional crafts, farming, and Swahili culture. It’s a respectful way to support the community and understand the island beyond its beaches. Some tours include stops at schools or women’s cooperatives. Paje beach Zanzibar is surrounded by welcoming communities, and a village visit adds depth to your trip. Always go with a local guide who can translate and ensure your visit is appropriate and beneficial to the people you meet.


Join a Yoga Session on the Beach

Many lodges and wellness centers around Paje beach Zanzibar offer daily yoga classes, often held right on the sand or in open-air studios. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, it’s a peaceful way to start or end your day. The sound of the waves and the ocean breeze create a calming atmosphere that enhances your practice. Some places also offer sunset or full moon sessions. Yoga at Paje beach Zanzibar is about slowing down, stretching out after active days, and reconnecting with your body in a beautiful natural setting.

Best time to visit at Paje beach Zanzibar

The best time to visit Paje beach Zanzibar is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February, when the weather is sunny, warm, and ideal for beach activities. These months offer consistent trade winds, making them perfect for kite-surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming in the clear lagoon. The ocean is calm, visibility is high for snorkeling, and the tides are easier to manage. If you're planning to relax, take boat trips, or enjoy sunset drinks on the sand, this is the most comfortable and reliable time to go. Paje beach Zanzibar is lively during these months, with most restaurants, bars, and activity centers fully operational.


Avoid visiting during the long rains in April and May, when heavy showers can disrupt outdoor plans and reduce visibility in the water. November also brings short rains, but they’re usually brief and manageable, making it a decent shoulder season for travelers seeking fewer crowds. If you're into photography or prefer a quieter vibe, early June and late November can offer good value. Paje beach Zanzibar changes with the seasons, so timing your visit well ensures better conditions for swimming, kite-surfing, and exploring nearby spots like Jozani Forest or Kuza Cave

How to there to Paje beach Zanzibar

To get to Paje beach Zanzibar, fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Stone Town, the island’s main entry point. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Paje on the southeast coast. You can arrange a private transfer through your hotel, hire a taxi at the airport, or use a local shuttle service. The road is paved and scenic, passing villages and spice farms along the way. If you're already on the island, dala-dala minibuses offer a budget option, though they’re slower and less comfortable. Planning ahead ensures a smooth arrival at Paje beach Zanzibar, especially if you’re carrying gear for kite-surfing or divin

Best attractions to combine with Paje beach Zanzibar

Combining Paje beach Zanzibar with nearby attractions adds variety and depth to your trip. Start with Jozani Forest, just 30 minutes away, where you can see the rare Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys and walk through mangrove boardwalks. It’s a great half-day escape from the beach that offers wildlife and nature in a shaded setting. Kuza Cave, located just a few minutes inland, is another must-visit. This freshwater cave pool is perfect for a swim and also hosts cultural activities like drumming and yoga. These spots pair well with Paje beach Zanzibar, giving you a mix of relaxation, wildlife, and local culture without long travel times.


For marine adventures, combine Paje beach Zanzibar with a Mnemba Atoll snorkeling trip, often arranged from nearby villages like Matemwe. The coral reefs here are vibrant and full of tropical fish, and dolphin sightings are common. You can also visit Kizimkazi, about an hour south, known for dolphin tours and its historic mosque. If you’re interested in history and shopping, a day trip to Stone Town offers spice tours, markets, and cultural landmarks like the Old Fort and Freddie Mercury’s house. These additions make your time at Paje beach Zanzibar more dynamic, balancing beach time with nature, culture, and adventure

Top health, safety and cultural tips for visit Paje beach Zanzibar

When visiting Paje beach Zanzibar, protect your health by staying hydrated, using reef-safe sunscreen, and wearing mosquito repellent especially in the evenings. Tap water isn’t recommended for drinking, so stick to bottled or filtered water. If you’re kite-surfing or swimming, be aware of the tides and currents, which can change quickly. Medical care is limited in the area, so bring any essential medications and a basic first aid kit. Food is generally safe at established restaurants, but avoid raw seafood from unverified sources. Paje beach Zanzibar is hot and humid, so light, breathable clothing helps you stay comfortable while reducing the risk of heat exhaustion.


Respecting local customs is key to a smooth experience at Paje beach Zanzibar. Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so dress modestly when away from the beach cover shoulders and knees in villages or towns. Public displays of affection are discouraged, and it’s polite to ask before taking photos of people. Swahili greetings like “Jambo” or “Asante” go a long way in showing respect. Bargaining is common in markets, but always remain friendly. Alcohol is available at tourist spots, but avoid drinking in public areas outside bars or resorts. By being mindful of local norms, you’ll enjoy a more welcoming and respectful stay at Paje beach Zanzibar

What to bring for best Paje beach Zanzibar experience

To enjoy the best of Paje beach Zanzibar, pack light, breathable clothing for the heat, plus a swimsuit, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. If you plan to kite-surf or paddleboard, include water shoes and rash guards. A dry bag is useful for boat trips and keeping electronics safe. Don’t forget a power bank, travel adapter, and basic first aid kit. For exploring nearby villages or Stone Town, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful. A small daypack helps carry essentials while keeping your hands free for beachside activities

Best places to stay in at Paje beach Zanzibar

Top places to stay at Paje beach Zanzibar include a mix of luxury villas, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly lodges all steps from the sand. For upscale comfort, Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa and Kisiwa On The Beach offer private pools, fine dining, and direct beach access. Mid-range travelers love Amani Boutique Hotel and Aluna Paje for their stylish rooms and relaxed vibe. Backpackers and solo travelers often choose Your Zanzibar Place or Paje By Night for social atmospheres and affordable rates. Whether you're seeking privacy, wellness, or nightlife, Paje beach Zanzibar has accommodation options to match every travel style

Why book Paje beach Zanzibar with Dav safaris

Booking Paje beach Zanzibar with Dav Safaris ensures a seamless, personalized experience backed by deep regional expertise and trusted local partnerships. As specialists in East African travel, Dav Safaris curates every detail from airport transfers and handpicked beachfront stays to kite-surfing lessons, dhow trips, and cultural excursions so you can relax and enjoy the coast without stress. Our team understands the tides, seasons, and hidden gems of Paje beach Zanzibar, offering honest advice and flexible planning that fits your style and budget. With Dav Safaris, you’re not just booking a beach holiday you’re gaining a reliable partner who values authenticity, comfort, and responsible travel.

Our Popular Tours