Relax on Tanzania's white-sand beaches

Although Tanzania is better known for safari than beach vacations, its 621 miles of Indian Ocean coastline rivals the Maldives and Seychelles. Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, offers some of the best spots for sun worshipping. Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje beaches are great places to stretch out all year long.

Fanjove Island, 18 miles off the coast, is an off the beaten path haven. This sandy island's lagoons and coconut trees set the scene for total relaxation.

On the eastern coast, south of Tanga, Pangani Beach is a local favorite thanks to its golden sands. Ras Kutani Beach, 15 miles south of Dar es Salaam, is wild in comparison, its shoreline marked by black rocks and lush green vegetation.