Stand Up Paddleboarding in Zanzibar

Crystal-clear lagoons, calm mornings, and coral reef snorkeling by SUP. Unique tropical paddling.

Conditions for stand up paddleboarding in Zanzibar

Best Season

Kusi season (SE monsoon): June–October for strongest wind. Kaskazi (NE): December–February for lighter wind.

Wind

SE trades (Kusi) 15–25 knots June–October, NE monsoon (Kaskazi) 10–18 knots Dec–Feb

Water Temp

25–29°C year-round. No wetsuit needed.

Best Months for Stand Up Paddleboarding

Year-round (mornings)

Skill Level

All levels — calm mornings before the wind picks up provide glassy, warm-water paddling over coral reefs.

Best stand up paddleboarding spots in Zanzibar

These spots in Zanzibar are known for stand up paddleboarding. Each has its own character and conditions.

Nungwi

North tip of the island. Deep water right off the beach. Good for SUP and calmer kiting at high tide.

Stand Up PaddleKiteboarding

Gear tip

Stand Up Paddleboarding gear for Zanzibar

A 10'6" inflatable touring SUP. A clear-bottom board lets you see coral and marine life below. Reef-safe sunscreen is important.

Track your stand up paddleboarding sessions in Zanzibar

Download Watersports Tracker and record every session on the water.

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