Kendwa is a village and beach on the north-west coast of Unguja, a few kilometres south of Nungwi and about 55 km from Stone Town, looking out across the water towards Tumbatu Island. It is a small settlement whose economy has shifted from fishing to the hotels and beach bars strung along the sand. The beach faces west, which gives it sunsets over the sea, and the shore shelves gently with a modest tidal range compared with the east coast, so the water stays swimmable through the day. Boats run from the beach to the Nungwi reefs and Tumbatu for snorkelling and diving, and sunset dhow cruises are a fixture. Kendwa is also known for its full-moon beach parties, which draw visitors from across the island. Accommodation ranges from budget bungalows to larger resorts, and the village makes an easy base for the Nungwi turtle sanctuary and dhow-building yards a short walk or ride to the north.
Every trip is tailored — tell us your dates and we'll build the itinerary around you.
