Zanzibar’s trade winds and turquoise lagoons make it a windsurfing paradise, but which are the best windsurfing spots on the island? Here are the top 3 beaches ranked by wind reliability, space, water conditions and access.

What Makes the Perfect Windsurf Spot

The best windsurfing spots combine several key factors:

• Reliable side-onshore trade winds throughout both wind seasons

• Long sandy beaches for easy launching and landing

• Lagoons with flat water near shore but chop further out

• Enough space to avoid crowds

• Centers or hotels right on the beach for convenience

While Zanzibar has many windy beaches, only a few deliver this complete package consistently.

#3 Nungwi – Good Wind, Deeper Water

Nungwi comes in at #3 with reliable north-east winds during the Kaskazi season (December-March) and deeper water right offshore that suits more experienced windsurfers.

The northern tip catches strong breezes, but the water lacks a protective lagoon, so conditions feel more open ocean than sheltered bay. Nungwi works best for confident riders who don’t mind choppier water and stronger gusts.

#2 Paje – Popular but Busy

Paje ranks #2 thanks to its wide lagoon and strong south-east trade winds during the Kusi season (June–September). When the wind aligns, the beach can work well for freeride windsurfing. However, only a few schools offer windsurf rental. At low tide, windsurfing is not possible, and the lagoon is highly tide-dependent. During peak season, the area also becomes busy with kiters and tourists, which can make launch zones crowded and the available space feel limited.

#1 Kiwengwa – The Top Windsurfing Spot

Kiwengwa takes the #1 spot thanks to its long white-sand beach, uncrowded shoreline, and reliable side-onshore winds that blow consistently throughout both trade wind seasons. The lagoon offers deep water at all times, with flat water at low tide—ideal for learning and progression— and chop at higher tide for more dynamic intermediate sessions. With plenty of space on the water and no crowding, it’s the best all-around windsurfing spot in Zanzibar, and the only location where you can rent the latest Duotone windsurfing equipment without ever having to worry about the tide.