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Nature

Bawe Island

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Bawe Island

Overview

Bawe Island is a small island in the Zanzibar Channel, roughly 10 kilometers from Stone Town. Travelers visit for its quiet, secluded setting and clear waters, which provide good conditions for swimming and relaxing away from the city.

Getting There

Access is by boat from the Stone Town waterfront in Zanzibar City. Motorized boats make the 10-kilometer channel crossing in approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the vessel and sea conditions.

Time to Spend

Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours for a half-day excursion. A stay of 5 to 6 hours is suitable for those planning a dedicated day of rest on the beach.

When to Visit

Morning trips are recommended, as waters in the channel are typically calmer earlier in the day. The island maintains a low-density atmosphere and rarely sees heavy crowds. Dry seasons offer the most consistent conditions for boat transfers and swimming.

Nearby Attractions

A trip can be paired with sites around Stone Town:

  • Changuu Island (5.1 km): A neighboring island located nearby in the channel.
  • Forodhani Gardens (6.4 km): A waterfront public park close to boat departure areas.
  • Tippu Tip's House (6.4 km): A historic residence in Stone Town.
  • St. Joseph's Cathedral, Zanzibar (6.5 km): A 19th-century cathedral in the historic district.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Bawe Island

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Bawe Island Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Zanzibar City 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Zanzibar City grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Zanzibar City 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Zanzibar City grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Changuu Island

Nature

Changuu Island

A small island reachable by boat from Stone Town, once used as a prison to hold enslaved people, a painful chapter in its history. Visitors can explore these historical traces alongside clear waters.

5.1 km away
Tippu Tip's House

Museums & galleries

Tippu Tip's House

This historic house in Stone Town, Zanzibar, was once home to Tippu Tip, a 19th-century merchant and slave trader. Wandering its surrounding alleys offers a glimpse into a chapter of Stone Town's history.

6.4 km away
Forodhani Gardens

Parks & gardens

Forodhani Gardens

This small park lines the waterfront promenade of Stone Town. Facing landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, it's a pleasant spot for a scenic stroll.

6.4 km away
Roman Catholic Diocese of Zanzibar

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Zanzibar

This Catholic diocese is based in Zanzibar City, Tanzania, and falls under the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam. It offers a close look at the local Catholic faith community.

6.5 km away
St. Joseph's Cathedral, Zanzibar

Temples & religious sites

St. Joseph's Cathedral, Zanzibar

This Roman Catholic cathedral sits in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar, and ranks among the area's most notable historic buildings. It's a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Stone Town on foot.

6.5 km away
Old Fort of Zanzibar

Heritage & monuments

Old Fort of Zanzibar

The oldest building on the waterfront of Stone Town, Zanzibar. Standing next to the House of Wonders and facing Forodhani Gardens, it's a natural stop on any walk through Stone Town.

6.5 km away