5 Best Things to Do in Paje, Zanzibar: A Guide to Beach Life & Paradise Finds
First, let’s address the elephant with its designer beach bag in the room; Zanzibar isn’t exactly gentle on the wallet. But trust me, every shilling spent buys you a ticket to the kind of paradise where memories sparkle brighter than your dwindling bank balance! I spent the last few days of 2024 in Paje, Zanzibar,…
First, let’s address the elephant with its designer beach bag in the room; Zanzibar isn’t exactly gentle on the wallet. But trust me, every shilling spent buys you a ticket to the kind of paradise where memories sparkle brighter than your dwindling bank balance!
I spent the last few days of 2024 in Paje, Zanzibar, the one part of the island I hadn’t been to before. Paje is located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, though the locals simply call it the East Coast. It’s about an hour from Stone Town. If you ask me, the East Coast is the most beautiful side of Zanzibar. The beaches are pristine, with the kind of turquoise-blue waters that make your heart skip a beat. The atmosphere? Sublime. The nightlife is vibrant, and everyone is in a constant state of island bliss… jovial, relaxed, and full of life.
The aroma of street food floats through the air, tempting you to sample everything on offer. And then there’s the music by the beachside, rhythmic beats that make your feet move, whether you like it or not. It’s a vibe!
Aside from lounging by the pool all day, soaking in beach views while sipping cocktails, my favourite part is the evening beach walks. Everything in Paje is conveniently close, making those sunset strolls an absolute highlight.
Since Zanzibar gets crowded during peak season, the East Coast is quickly becoming the go-to escape for anyone seeking less crowded beaches, unless it’s December, of course. Festive season? Forget about peace and quiet!
Paje’s shoreline is dotted with appealing establishments, from sophisticated beachfront restaurants to laid-back bars and cafes where the sand meets the sea.
Now, let’s dive into the top five things you can do in Paje:
1. Beach and Pools Honestly, the pools here are incredible. You can switch between lounging by the pool and cooling off in the ocean, a perfect mix. Just prepare for a sunburn! Most places let you use their pools as long as you buy food or drinks. One of my favourites is the Ndame Paje Hotel. For the best cafes; Mr Kahawa and Zanzibarista are must-visits.
But if you crave a quieter experience, hop on a piki-piki (bodaboda) and head to nearby towns like Bwejuu or Jambiani. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Just a heads-up, the beaches there aren’t quite as clean.
2. Nightlife: Paje knows how to throw a party! It’s arguably the party capital of Zanzibar. Beachside lounges and bars host events almost every night, so there’s always something happening. The trick? Befriend a local who can give you the inside scoop on the best parties. My top recommendations? Jambo, New Jambo, and Oxygen. They’re guaranteed to keep you dancing till dawn.
3. Cruising: There’s nothing more heavenly than cruising the Indian Ocean. Imagine this: visiting sandbanks, snorkelling, and indulging in a seafood platter on a deserted island. Bliss, right? Set aside a full day for this activity. Beach cruises also called boat tours are organised at various spots around Paje, so make sure you find a reliable guide to plan it out for you.
4. Street Food: Street food is the heart of any destination and Paje doesn’t disappoint. There’s plenty to sample from fresh seafood to grilled chicken and local Zanzibari dishes. But if street food isn’t your thing, worry not. From fragrant Asian curries to wood-fired Italian pizzas, Paje’s eclectic dining scene spans continents, delighting culinary adventurers with its global flavours. The best place to experience this festive culinary carnival is Bento’s, Paje’s colourful food court.
5. Cycling: One of the most enjoyable ways to explore the island is by bicycle. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to see the sights and learn more about local culture and traditions. Plus, cycling on scenic coastal paths? It’s a dreamy adventure.
Bonus
Kite surfing: Kite surfing is huge in Paje! While it looks challenging, plenty of instructors are on hand to teach you. If you’re up for the adventure, you’ll soon be gliding over the waves like a pro.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: A short trip from Paje, Jozani Forest is the sanctuary for endangered red colobus monkeys. The forest offers visitors the chance to trek through one of Zanzibar’s last indigenous woodlands.
My mission in Paje was beautifully uncomplicated: eat, drink, swim, and dance… a simple recipe for joy that I followed to perfection. But I quickly found out that the island life is a seduction I could easily surrender to.
Paje is a destination full of surprises, and trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
