The beautiful African islands with 'world's best' beaches slowly replacing the Maldives

When someone thinks about the world's best beaches, the Maldives is very often the first place that springs to mind. The country, made up of over 1,000 islands, is a popular holiday destination, especially for those looking for peace and quiet. However, with luxury also comes a price tag and many people simply cannot afford to travel there.

Luckily, there is one holiday destination that's slightly cheaper, with experts saying it is slowly replacing the Maldives. The tropical islands of Zanzibar are being tipped as the next big beach destination, with turquoise waters, quiet resorts, and a mix of history and culture drawing visitors from around the world.

Travel experts at Sundowner Holidays said: "Zanzibar's rise in popularity is long overdue. It offers a real mix of authenticity and natural beauty, without the high costs you get elsewhere."

Located just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar was recently ranked one of the Top Islands in the World in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards 2025. It came fourth in the Africa and Indian Ocean category, with a score of 91.43.

The experts at Sundowner Holidays added: "It's not about overwater villas or polished perfection, it's about authenticity, colour and calm.

"You can relax with your feet in the sand and a coconut in your hand without paying Maldives prices."

Many of those who visited agree. One person wrote on TripAdvisor: "I've been to the Maldives and have now just come back from Zanzibar. I have to say, if I had to choose I would go for Zanzibar every time. For me, it has the best beaches in the world and there is just so much more to do rather than just sunbathing on a beach."

What's more, unlike some high-end destinations, Zanzibar is still relatively affordable. Many beachfront lodges cost around £80 to £120 a night, and even luxury resorts with private villas and infinity pools tend to be cheaper than those in the Maldives.

However, the experts say that Zanzibar's biggest draw is its variety. In the north, beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa are known for calm seas and lively beach bars.

In the southeast, areas such as Paje and Jambiani offer wide, empty beaches that are ideal for long walks, kitesurfing, and watching the sunrise.

The experts said: "You can choose a peaceful break or something more social, and you don't have to leave the island to find it. That's not always the case in the Maldives."

Beyond the beaches, the island is rich in history. Its capital, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its carved wooden doors and narrow streets.

The experts said: "There's nowhere quite like it. You get the scent of cloves in the air, music from the local shops, and glimpses of a past that's still alive today."

Zanzibar also offers plenty for travellers who want more than just sunbathing. Visitors can snorkel or dive in the coral reefs at Mnemba Atoll, see dolphins off Kizimkazi, or take a spice tour to learn about cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Inland, Jozani Forest is home to the red colobus monkey - a rare species found nowhere else on Earth.

The best time to visit is between June and October, when the weather is dry and sunny.

Flights from the UK usually connect through Dubai, Doha, or Nairobi, and return tickets can often be cheaper than flights to the Maldives.