When you think of Zanzibar, you think of the largest island, Unguja. But Zanzibar is a collection of a few islands, including Pemba, where one of the world’s largest productions of cloves is located, and the island of Mafia, where sports fishing and scuba reign.

The majority of tourists come to Zanzibar for the beaches. The islands are literally surrounded with them with the best picks are on the east shore of Unguja, the main island. Beaches on the west shore are too close to the port of Stone Town, with shipping, pollution, and what comes with city life.

The beautiful beach at Jambiani is crowded and everyone goes there. This beach is miles of startling white sand. It would take a lot of tourists to crowd out this piece of paradise.

The place has no swimming pools, no casinos, no discos, bars and mainly no electricity - except at some guesthomes. If this is your idea of paradise, then welcome to Jambiani Beach, Zanzibar.

The beaches are actually home to small fishing villages. Here fishing isn't for commercial gain; it's for the village. But the locals in Jambiani harvest seaweed. Due to the nature of the reef, about a mile out, the wave action litters the beach with seaweed at low tide. It is taken, dried, and sold to exporters - generally making its way as a nutritional product in Japan.

Moving for the locals consists of riding bikes along the beach. The tourists can rent bikes at various places along Jambiani Beach.

You may also set off for another fun event; just take a ride on a Dhow boat, the local fishing boat. Find out whether locals can give you a ride during sunset, you'll stay within the reef and see the beach like few tourists have.

And the best diving and snorkeling on the island is one beach away.

Remember that you can arrange diving at the few hotels. And if you choose snorkeling, then try to stay near rock outcroppings where marine life is greatest.