Top 10 Romantic Things to Do in Zanzibar for Newlyweds

Whispers of the Indian Ocean: Where Love Finds Its Island

Written by Travie E360 | Published by Zanzibar Gateway

Scene Lead

As the sun melts into the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar comes alive with colors and emotions that only lovers can truly understand. The waves hum softly against the white coral sands, dhows drift lazily across the horizon, and every palm tree seems to whisper one thing — karibu nyumbani, welcome home.

For newlyweds, Zanzibar is not just a destination.

It’s a feeling — a sacred pause between vows and forever, where love finds its rhythm in the heartbeat of the ocean. Below are the Top 10 Romantic Things to Do in Zanzibar — each one designed to make your honeymoon unforgettable.

Sunset Dhow Cruise – Romantic Things to Do in Zanzibar

1️⃣ Sunset Dhow Cruise – One of the Most Romantic Things to Do in Zanzibar

There’s nothing quite like watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean from the deck of a traditional dhow. As the sail catches the wind, you’ll glide across waters painted in gold and crimson.

The scent of the sea mixes with coconut oil and champagne, and for a brief, perfect moment, time stands still.

Travie Tip: Book a private dhow from Nungwi or Kendwa just before sunset.

Bring your own bottle of champagne and ask the captain to sail toward the quieter coves for privacy. The reflection of the orange sky on calm water makes it the perfect photo for your love story.

2️⃣ Private Dinner on the Beach

When night falls, Zanzibar’s beaches transform into candlelit dreams.

Resorts like Zuri Zanzibar, The Residence, and Tulia Zanzibar offer private dinners right on the sand — complete with lanterns, fine wine, and gentle taarab music in the background.

It’s not just dinner; it’s a love ritual.

You’ll dine barefoot under a sea of stars, listening to the waves whisper as you toast to forever.

3️⃣ Strolling Through Stone Town’s History and Heartbeat

Hand in hand, wander through the narrow alleys of Stone Town, where every carved door hides a story of sultans, spice traders, and poets. The blend of Arabic, Indian, and Swahili architecture makes every corner a photo-worthy moment.

Stop by the Forodhani Night Market to try Zanzibar pizza, grilled seafood skewers, and sugarcane juice.

Then end your walk with a rooftop dinner at Emerson Spice — watching the sun sink behind ancient minarets and the call to prayer echo softly across the city.

Travie Tip: Visit Stone Town around 5 PM. The golden hour light gives everything a magical warmth. Bring your camera — and your curiosity.

4️⃣ Swim with Dolphins at Kizimkazi

Few experiences are as intimate as swimming alongside wild dolphins in their natural home.

The village of Kizimkazi, on Zanzibar’s southern coast, is known for its early-morning dolphin excursions.

As the sun rises, you’ll slip into warm waters and watch pods of dolphins dancing playfully beneath the surface. It’s a humbling, joyous experience — one that leaves couples speechless.

Travie Tip:  Choose an ethical tour operator that doesn’t chase or disturb the dolphins. The joy of this moment lies in quiet respect.

Private Candlelit Dinner on the Beach – Romantic Things to Do in Zanzibar

5️⃣ Explore the Spice Farms Together

Zanzibar is often called The Spice Island — and visiting a spice plantation together is like stepping into a living perfume. You’ll walk through gardens of clove, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, guided by locals who make you guess each scent before revealing its name.

It’s a playful, sensory experience that awakens taste, touch, and smell — all essential ingredients of romance.

Travie Tip: Visit the Kizimbani or Kidichi spice farms in the morning when the air is cool. Don’t miss tasting fresh coconut water and picking your own bouquet of herbs as a souvenir.

6️⃣ Snorkeling and Sandbank Picnic at Mnemba Atoll

For couples who crave beauty and adventure, a day at Mnemba Atoll is pure bliss. The crystal waters teem with tropical fish, coral gardens, and sea turtles.

After snorkeling, your boat anchors at a tiny sandbank in the middle of the ocean, where your guide sets up a picnic with local fruit, seafood, and cold drinks.

There’s nothing around but sea, sky, and each other — an experience straight out of a dream.

Travie Tip: Bring an underwater camera for the coral reef. Early morning trips are best for visibility and tranquility.

7️⃣ Spa Day for Two – Island Rejuvenation

After days of exploration, indulge in a couples’ massage at one of Zanzibar’s top spas — like Zuri’s Maua Wellness, Breezes Frangipani Spa, or The Residence Spa.

Coconut oil, frangipani scents, and rhythmic Swahili music create a meditative state.

You’ll walk out not just refreshed — but reconnected.

Travie Tip: Book your treatment during sunset and choose an open-air spa suite where you can hear the waves. It adds an unforgettable sensory layer to your relaxation.

8️⃣ Romantic Walks at Paje and Jambiani

The east coast of Zanzibar is made for long, unhurried walks. The beaches of Paje and Jambiani stretch endlessly — soft white sand, turquoise water, and kite surfers gliding in the distance.

It’s the perfect place for laughter, conversation, and silence — three languages of love.

And when the tide is low, you can walk for miles into the sea, surrounded by reflections of clouds and sunlight.

Travie Tip: Visit in the morning when the beaches are empty. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a journal to capture your thoughts between the tides.

9️⃣ Visit The Rock Restaurant – Dining in the Ocean

Perched on a coral rock near Pingwe Beach, The Rock Restaurant is one of the most iconic dining spots in the world. At high tide, you arrive by boat; at low tide, you walk across the shallow water.

The seafood is fresh, the views surreal, and the setting utterly romantic.

Watching waves surround your table feels like nature’s own love performance.

Travie Tip: Reserve well in advance and go during sunset. Order the seafood platter for two — it’s legendary.

1 Sunset Horse Ride at Nungwi or Matemwe

Few experiences are as cinematic as riding along the beach at dusk — waves splashing against your horse’s legs, sky painted in soft purples and oranges.

Several equestrian centers near Nungwi and Matemwe offer private rides for couples. It’s peaceful, intimate, and endlessly photogenic — the perfect finale to your honeymoon story.

Travie Tip: Wear light clothing and schedule your ride 30 minutes before sunset for that perfect golden glow.

Exploring Stone Town Together – Romantic Things to Do in Zanzibar

🌺 Highlights

• Zanzibar offers both luxury and authenticity — a mix of adventure, culture, and intimacy.

• The island’s warm people and slow rhythm create the perfect emotional backdrop for love.

• Every corner of the island tells a different story — whether it’s Stone Town’s poetry or Mnemba’s underwater paradise.

• The best time for a honeymoon is June to October or December to February — when skies are clear and seas calm.

🌴 Recommendations

• Spend at least 7–10 days to balance relaxation and exploration.

• Split your stay between Stone Town (for culture) and Nungwi or Paje (for beaches).

• Support local guides and ethical operators for authentic, sustainable travel.

• Don’t rush your itinerary — in Zanzibar, the magic lies in slow living.

  
  

❤️ Conclusion

Zanzibar isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to feel.Every sunset, every scent of spice, every tide carries a rhythm that mirrors love itself — gentle, deep, eternal.

For newlyweds, this island offers not only breathtaking scenery but something far rarer: connection. Between people, cultures, and the divine beauty of the ocean.

Here, the world pauses — and love takes over.