Though beach tourism in Tanzania is centered on offshore islands such as Zanzibar and Mafia, the mainland Swahili Coast hosts a wealth of attractive, off-the-beaten-track seaside destinations.
Incorporating more than 1,000 kilometres of gorgeous Indian Ocean frontage, the Swahili Coast of mainland Tanzania, with its endless palm-lined beaches and offshore reefs writhing with colourful fish, has all the attributes one would associate with a tropical beach haven. The capital Dar es Salaam, for instance, is flanked by attractive and well-developed beaches.
The more rustic and prettier beaches lie to the south of the city, where Ras Kutani is the premier upmarket eco-lodge, its grounds alive with monkeys and birds – this lodge is a popular springboard for those headed off on a southern safari. Far more built-up and resort-like, Kunduchi and Mbezi Beaches lie to the north of the city and are lined with unpretentious mid-range hotels.