Zanzibar’s southeast coast, famous for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, is also home to a thriving nightlife scene that is quickly gaining popularity. Whether you're looking to unwind with sunset cocktails or dance the night away to beats from international DJs, this corner of the island has something for everyone.
In this article:
From Michamvi to Jambiani, the region boasts beachside parties, live music, and cultural events happening almost every day of the week. If you're planning a trip and wondering where to enjoy the best nightlife Zanzibar has to offer, this guide will walk you through the most exciting spots to visit
Michamvi: Sunset Parties and Laid-Back Vibes
Michamvi Peninsula, known for its serene sunsets and tranquil beaches, offers more than just relaxation. It’s one of the few places on the island where you can watch the sun dip into the sea on the southeast coast, and it's quickly emerging as a hotspot for beachside nightlife.
1. Michamvi Kae Beach Bar
Party Style: Daily sunset parties with reggae and chill-out vibes.
Highlights: Sunset views over Chakwa Bay, ambient sounds, and occasional local acrobatic shows.
Best Time to Go: Every evening, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Upendo
Party Style: Laid-back brunch with lounge music.
Highlights: A stylish spot offering Sunday brunches with a live DJ. Ideal for recovering from Saturday night’s festivities.
Best Time to Go: Sundays for brunch.
3. The Gong Music Club
Party Style: Energetic live music and dance events.
Highlights: Newly opened, featuring local and international DJs with live music from Tuesday to Sunday.
Best Time to Go: Any night from Tuesday to Sunday for diverse musical experiences.
Bwejuu: Hidden Gems of Nightlife
Though Bwejuu is known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional seaweed farms, the nightlife scene is beginning to take off. Here’s where to find the emerging hotspots:
1. Simba Bar
Party Style: Local Zanzibarian atmosphere with live music and karaoke nights.
Highlights: A mix of Zanzibarian live music, sports broadcasts, and a lively karaoke night every Wednesday.
Best Time to Go: Wednesdays for karaoke; Saturdays for live music that goes late into the night.
2. The Tiki Beach Club at The Palm Tree Resort
Party Style: Beachside international DJ sessions and themed buffets.
Highlights: A beachfront location with Friday night parties featuring DJs, music from around the world, and a buffet.
Best Time to Go: Friday nights for beach parties with an international flair.
Paje: The Heart of the Party Scene
Paje is widely regarded as the nightlife hub of Zanzibar’s southeast coast, particularly popular with kite surfers and beachgoers. The area has several beach bars hosting events nearly every night of the week.
1. New Jambo Beach Bungalows
Party Style: Pre-party and barbecue before the main beach party.
Highlights: Friday night Swahili-style barbecue and karaoke to warm up for the famous Jambo Beach Party.
Best Time to Go: Fridays for pre-party vibes.
2. Jambo Beach Party
Party Style: Beach party with a mix of local and international music.
Highlights: Dance with locals and Masai warriors under the stars to a mix of African hip-hop, Latin, and global pop hits.
Best Time to Go: Fridays, all night long.
3. Demani Lodge
Party Style: Weekly themed parties with live music.
Highlights: Swahili BBQ buffet, followed by a different theme each Thursday, such as 70s, 80s, Afrobeat, or reggae.
Best Time to Go: Thursdays for an all-inclusive experience of food, music, and dancing.
4. Oxygen
Party Style: House and techno music.
Highlights: Happy hour drinks followed by a beachside house party with deep beats and stunning ocean views from their rooftop.
Best Time to Go: Wednesdays for house music lovers.
5. Summer Dream & Vuvuzela
Party Style: Massive pool parties and Sunday beach vibes.
Highlights: Summer Dream hosts Tuesday pool parties, while Vuvuzela, just next door, brings a more local flavor to its Sunday night beach parties.
Best Time to Go: Tuesdays at Summer Dream, Sundays at Vuvuzela.
6. B4 Beach Club
Party Style: Techno and deep house.
Highlights: Known for their Saturday night parties and After Kite Club sessions, B4 Beach Club turns Paje beach into an open-air dancefloor.
Best Time to Go: Saturdays for the best electronic music Zanzibar has to offer.
Jambiani: Laid-Back and Authentic
More of a traditional fishing village, Jambiani has a laid-back vibe, but don’t be fooled—there are some unique party spots worth checking out.
1. Coral Rock
Party Style: Jam sessions with local and international musicians.
Highlights: Monday night jam sessions featuring musicians from across Zanzibar and even world-class performers.
Best Time to Go: Mondays for live music and a unique musical experience.
2. Red Monkey Lodge
Party Style: Open-stage jam sessions.
Highlights: Sunday jam sessions where local artists mix with tourists and expats, creating unforgettable music collaborations.
Best Time to Go: Sundays for a blend of traditional and contemporary music.
3. Masai Mara
Party Style: Exclusive dinner parties and poolside events.
Highlights: Wednesday night dinner parties with international DJs, plus Saturday Day Clubbing by the pool with live percussion performances.
Best Time to Go: Wednesday for the dinner party, Saturdays for poolside fun.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Party Week
Zanzibar’s southeast coast offers a wide variety of party spots for every taste—from laid-back beach bars with sunset views to high-energy clubs with international DJs. As the region continues to grow in popularity, you’ll find something happening every night of the week.
Whether you're looking for reggae vibes, Swahili fusion BBQs, or deep house on the sand, Zanzibar has you covered. Make sure to check with venues or their social media pages for the latest events, as the island's nightlife is always evolving.
So, kick off your shoes, feel the sand between your toes, and get ready to experience the best of Zanzibar’s beach parties!