*1, Zanzibar Nightlife: Beach Bars, Clubs & Sunset Spots

Zanzibar may be known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Swahili culture—but as the sun goes down, this island paradise lights up with a laid-back yet lively nightlife scene. From barefoot beach bars to moonlit parties, Zanzibar nightlife offers something for every kind of traveler—whether you’re sipping cocktails at a sunset rooftop or dancing under the stars on the sand.

If you’re planning an island getaway and wondering where to go after dark, this complete guide to Zanzibar nightlife highlights the top beach bars, clubs, and sunset spots across the island.

📍 Top Nightlife Areas in Zanzibar

🏖 Nungwi & Kendwa – Northern Zanzibar

The northern coast is the heart of Zanzibar’s nightlife, especially for travelers looking to mix beach relaxation with evening entertainment. Here, you’ll find the most vibrant beach bars, full moon parties, and late-night venues.

🏙 Stone Town – West Coast

For a more cultural or casual nightlife experience, Stone Town offers rooftop bars, live music venues, and coastal hangouts with a touch of history and charm.

🌊 Paje & Jambiani – Southeast Coast

These coastal villages have a laid-back backpacker vibe, offering chilled-out beach bars, kite surfer hangouts, and acoustic jam sessions by the sea.

🍹 Best Beach Bars in Zanzibar

1. Kendwa Rocks Beach Bar (Kendwa)

• 🔥 Famous for: Full Moon Parties

• 🎶 Music: Afrobeat, reggae, electronic

• 🍹 Vibe: Lively, beachfront, dancing barefoot under palm trees

Held once a month, the Kendwa Full Moon Party attracts locals and travelers alike for an unforgettable night of dancing, fire shows, and cocktails by the ocean.

2. Gerry’s Bar (Nungwi)

• 🕯 Vibe: Cozy, casual, sunset-perfect

• 🎸 Activities: Live acoustic sessions, pool tables

• 🍛 Food: Excellent seafood and cold local beers

Right on the beach, Gerry’s is ideal for pre-dinner drinks or unwinding with your toes in the sand.

3. The Rock Sunset Lounge (Michamvi)

• 🌅 Best for: Sunset cocktails with epic ocean views

• 🍷 Vibe: Upscale, romantic, scenic

• 📸 Tip: Come early to snap iconic photos of The Rock Restaurant at golden hour

The lounge area opens just before sunset and is perfect for couples or honeymooners.

4. Kae Funk Sunset Beach Bar (Michamvi Kae)

• 🌇 Top Sunset Spot on the East Coast

• 🪘 Features: Live drumming, fire shows, chilled vibe

• 🥥 Try: Coconut cocktails & beach BBQ

It’s less commercial and more bohemian, ideal for those who want to see one of Zanzibar’s best sunsets in a relaxed, barefoot setting.

🎉 Best Nightclubs & Party Spots

1. Taarab Restaurant & Lounge (Stone Town)

• 🏙 Rooftop bar with views of the Old Fort & ocean

• 🎷 Features: Jazz nights, Swahili tapas, elegant cocktails

• 🌃 Great for: A more refined, cultural evening

2. 6 Degrees South (Stone Town)

• 🌴 Trendy bar with live music and DJ nights

• 🍸 Signature cocktails, rooftop views, casual vibe

• 🕺 Good for: Pre-party drinks or chilled evening hangouts

3. Cholo’s Beach Bar (Nungwi)

• 🎶 Known for: Beach parties with DJs and fire dancers

• 🥳 Popular with: Backpackers and night owls

• 🌴 Open-air club on the beach, dance barefoot in the sand

Cholo’s is one of Zanzibar’s most famous late-night beach clubs, especially buzzing during peak travel season.

🌅 Best Sunset Spots in Zanzibar

🎧 Music Styles in Zanzibar Nightlife

Zanzibar’s nightlife blends local and international sounds:

• 🎶 Bongo Flava – Tanzanian pop/hip hop

• 🪘 Taarab – Traditional Swahili orchestral music

• 🎸 Reggae & Afrobeat – Popular in beach bars

• 🎧 House & Electronic – Played during full moon parties and beach raves

✅ Nightlife Tips in Zanzibar

• 🍻 Alcohol is available in most tourist zones, but drink respectfully in public areas due to local Islamic culture

• 👗 Dress modestly when heading into Stone Town (cover shoulders/knees), but beach attire is fine at coastal bars

• 🚕 Arrange transportation in advance if staying far from nightlife hubs

• 💵 Carry cash (Tanzanian shillings) – many bars don’t take cards

• 🦟 Wear insect repellent, especially near the beach at night

📝 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re watching the sunset with a chilled cocktail in Michamvi, dancing under the moon in Kendwa, or vibing to live Swahili jazz in Stone Town—Zanzibar nightlife has a rhythm for every traveler. It’s the perfect balance of island chill and vibrant beats, wrapped in ocean breeze and starlight.

From full moon beach parties to sunset lounges with local flair, Zanzibar proves that the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down.