Tumbatu Lagoon

Tumbatu Lagoon is a sheltered, shallow coastal site located in the northern Zanzibar archipelago. Access is typically from nearby villages along the lagoon’s edge, with calm conditions most days and light to moderate current at times along the drop-offs. The site offers sandy flats and seagrass meadows transitioning to shallow coral patches closer to the channel, making it suitable for beginner to intermediate divers. Expect calm warm water, very good viz typical of lagoon entrances, and a relaxed swim with minimal overhead at shallow depths. Common reef fishes, schooling snappers, parrotfish and blennies are typical along the edges, while the lagoon provides habitat for small crabs and shrimp. The nearby towns of Nungwi, Kendwa and Mkokotoni lie within a short drive and offer services, but the lagoon itself remains a quiet, low-key dive option in calm weather.