Jambiani
Tanzania · Kitesurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds S (Kusi), NE (Kaskazi)
- Level Beginner · Intermediate
- Water Flat water
- Best months Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb
About this spot
Jambiani lies a few kilometres south of Paje on Zanzibar's east coast – the same lagoon structure but considerably quieter, the classic alternative away from the busy school beaches. A long sandbar shelters a shallow, turquoise lagoon over a pale bottom.
Two trade-wind seasons blow here: Kusi from the southeast, June to October (peaking July/August), averaging 18 to 22 knots, strong and good for jumping; and Kaskazi from the northeast, December to mid-March, gentler at 14 to 18 knots and ideal for beginners. What do I need to watch at Jambiani? The tide: low water leaves shallow, safe lagoon water for beginners, the best riding is at mid to high tide, while high water makes launching harder. Suits beginners and intermediates on kite and wing.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 55 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the south. The most reliable period runs from May to July. The least wind is in November (1 %). The water ranges from about 26 to 30 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
17 %
| 9 kn | NE | 29 °C | 29 °C |
| February |
18 %
| 9 kn | NE | 29 °C | 30 °C |
| March |
6 %
| 8 kn | NE | 29 °C | 30 °C |
| April |
11 %
| 9 kn | S | 27 °C | 29 °C |
| May |
48 %
| 11 kn | S | 27 °C | 28 °C |
| June |
53 %
| 12 kn | S | 26 °C | 28 °C |
| July |
55 %
| 12 kn | S | 26 °C | 27 °C |
| August |
22 %
| 10 kn | S | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| September |
7 %
| 9 kn | S | 27 °C | 26 °C |
| October |
4 %
| 9 kn | SE | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| November |
1 %
| 7 kn | SE | 28 °C | 28 °C |
| December |
1 %
| 7 kn | NE | 29 °C | 29 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from S, NE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
Plan sessions around the tide table: low tide flat and safe for learning, mid to high tide for enough depth. Reef booties protect you on the lagoon floor.
⚠︎ Hazards
At high water launching is tricky and better for experienced riders. At low water there are sharp coral and sea urchins on the lagoon floor – wear booties.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Jambiani suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Jambiani suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate (water: Flat water).
Which wind works at Jambiani?
Best with wind from S (Kusi), NE (Kaskazi). In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the south.
When is the best time for Jambiani?
The best months are considered to be Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (55 % of days).
How warm is the water at Jambiani?
Over the year about 26 °C in August to 30 °C in March (model data).
Something missing or wrong? Suggest a change
Your note goes to the editors and is not shown publicly. We only need an email address if we have questions.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first.