20 September 2019
Tripindigo
5 min read
Tanzanian is best known for its safari circuit, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro and of course the lovely Zanzibar Archipelago. These are just a few of the many reasons expats choose to settle in this lovely country. However, if an avid surfer and planning to visit or even relocate to this exotic African location then don't forget to bring along your board.
Tanzania actually has quite a few beaches that yield perfect conditions for surfing, when the swell plays along of course. Needless to say, there is plenty of fun to be had for both pro and amateur surfers.
Surf Reports For Tanzania
Unless you have loads of time on your hands and don't mind being disappointed by the swell, its always best to check conditions at your favourite surf spots before you head out. Before we get into the nitty-gritty on spots, here's a quick surf report.
Which Time of the Year has the Best Swells?
The months from June to September – the Austral Winter – are considered the best months for surfing in Tanzania. This is the time when swells from Jeffery’s Bay in South Africa make their way to Tanzania and provide the surfers with some of the best swells.
Keep Tabs on your Daily Surf Reports
Several online websites have been dedicated to illustrating the surfing scene in Tanzania. These are the one we found to give the best info:
- wannasurf.com - features pictures of the locations, the types of swells, additional tips, and comments from fellow surfers.
- Surf-forecast.com - features weather, and lets you know the best time for surfing.
- Tide-forecast.com - quickly swop between your favourite locations and get tide times, sea conditions live weather ad 7-day forecast.
8 Best Surfing Spots in Tanzania
Tanzania is a country blessed with endless natural beauty! No wonder it has such amazing surfing spots that are blessed with clear waters and magnificent reefs. Here are some of the best surf spots you must visit in Tanzania:
Surf Spots in Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam is one of the most frequented places by tourists in Tanzania, and with good reason: the city is a tourist’s paradise! Surfing in Oyster Bay is a great idea because it’s easily accessible and open for all types of surfers ranging from beginners to experts.
1. Coco Beach
Also called Oyster’s Bay, Coco Beach is situated on one of the main roads of Dar es Salaam. This spot isn’t really crowded, which means that you can surf in peace here!
You can walk over to the surfing spaces, but to find isolated regions, you will have to travel by boat.
Tourist Surfing, Image Source: YouTube.Com
2. Sea Cliff
Sea Cliff is located on the northern-most tip of Dar es Salaam, and it’s a must-visit reef break! Outside the hotel, you can find a ladder that takes you to the sea. Surfing here is recommended for experienced surfers only!
Sea Cliff Hotel Dar Es Salaam, Image Source: MyGuideTanzania.Com
3. Bongoyo Island
You can reach the Bongoyo Island through a boat from Dar es Salaam. 200 meters away from the shore of the Island is a scenic reef that will leave you stunned! Just be warned, this spot has strong currents, so proper safety measures should be taken beforehand.
Bongoyo Island, Image Source: Migrationology.Com
4. Sinda Islands
To get to Sinda Islands, head over to the beach in Mjimwema Village and book a dhow ride to the Islands. This place provides a safe surfing experience for beginners as well! It’s not populated and the views are amazing! However, beware of the sea urchins!
This island is also a great place to spend some alone time with your significant other!
Tourist at Sinda Island, Image Source: Kearsleys.Com
5. Kasa Beach
This is another beach that’s easily accessible for surfing in Tanzania. It’s suitable for beginners as well and it’s a safe surfing spot. However, you still need to be careful about the coral reefs and the sharp rocks!
Kasa Beach, Image Source: LostInTanzania.WordPress.Com
Surfing Spots Across Tanzania
6. Mchinga Beach in Lindi
This quiet and peaceful beach is the best place to head over to if you want to surf in peace, without a crowd watching you. It’s suitable for beginners as well!
Mchinga Beach, Image Source: Minube.Net
7. Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar
Take a boat from Nungwi beach, located on Nungwi Island in Zanziba, and head for the reefs. You can find good waves for surfing all the way to Mnemba Island.
8. Dongwe Doughnuts
The Dongwe Doughnuts are located on the south-eastern tip of Zanzibar! This area is one of the most reliable spots for surfing. However, you will need a boat to reach up here!
Tourist Surfing, Image Source: Unique-KitengeCamps.Com
Grab That Board and Catch Some Waves
With spots to cater for experts and locals, there is no excuse not to work on your surfing skills in Tanzania. Grab your board and catch those waves!
We'd love to hear from you If you have anything to add to our list or would like to tell us about your experience give us a shout!
Share your experience with us! Tag @Tripindigo on your social posts #EastAfricaRocks or simply contact us here!
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