Paje
Kitesurfing capital with a huge tidal lagoon
Updated
Paje, on the south-east coast, is the island's kitesurfing capital and its most social beach outside the north. The tide sets the rhythm here: at low tide the sea retreats across a vast white-sand flat, and at high tide a turquoise lagoon fills in against the palm line.
The scene runs from backpacker guesthouses to boutique hotels, with kite schools, beach bars and a young international crowd. It is the east-coast base for travellers who want wind sports and company rather than silence.
Highlights
Kitesurfing in two wind windows
Both monsoon winds work here: the kaskazi from December to March and the kusi from June to October. Schools line the beach, and the flat shallow lagoon makes learning forgiving.
The tidal flats
At low tide the sea retreats hundreds of metres across firm white sand, one of the strangest and most beautiful sights on the island. Swimming happens at high tide; walking happens whenever.
Seaweed farming
Women farm seaweed on the flats at low tide, a working industry and a Zanzibar signature. The village Seaweed Center explains the process and sells the products.
Kuza Cave nearby
Ten minutes inland, a circular jungle pool inside a limestone cave, open for swimming. Small entry fee; go early to have it to yourself.
The Rock restaurant
The island's most photographed restaurant sits on a rock in the water at Pingwe, ten minutes north. Book ahead for a table; the tide decides the approach.
Good for
- Kitesurfing and wind sports
- A social, young scene
- Long beach walks on the flats
- Budget through boutique stays
Know before you go
- Swimming follows the tide table: the flats empty at low tide and the water is shallow and warm at high tide.
- Seaweed farms and shallow water mean the lagoon is not always postcard-clear; the north coast is clearer for pure swimming.
- Book kite school and equipment ahead in the wind seasons.
- The village is spread out; check walking distances to restaurants before booking a room.