Nungwi

Some beaches supply their own sunshine regardless of what’s in the sky above. Nungwi, on Zanzibar’s northernmost tip, has the kind of white coral sand that seems to glow, even after nightfall. The beach belongs to the large and lively fishing village of the same name with bars, restaurants and nightlife where backpackers and locals mingle with five-star resorters.

For all its bustle, it can still feel secluded. Nungwi’s expansive coastline is wide open for swimming and snorkeling in some of Africa’s most pristine, reef-rich waters. It’s one of the rare Zanzibari beaches untroubled by severe undulations of high and low tides, making it perfect for all-day water activities.

Deep sea fishing near Nungwi is top-notch, with opportunities to catch kingfish, dorado, yellowfin tuna and enormous striped marlin from the Indian Ocean. There are plenty of activities on offer -- walking tours, sunset cruises, diving excursions and parasailing to name a few -- but all it really takes is a sunset sighting of traditional dhow boats bobbing in the sea to be captured by this enchanting African beach.