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Oyster Bay, Tanzania - Things to Do in Oyster Bay

Things to Do in Oyster Bay

Oyster Bay, Tanzania - Complete Travel Guide

Oyster Bay is an upscale coastal district in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city and former capital. Known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant expat community, this affluent neighborhood offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and tropical paradise. The area features beautiful white sand beaches along the Indian Ocean, high-end shopping centers, and some of the city's finest restaurants and nightlife venues. As one of Dar es Salaam's most developed areas, Oyster Bay serves as a gateway to Tanzania's incredible wildlife and cultural experiences while providing modern amenities and comfort. The district is home to several diplomatic missions, international businesses, and upscale residential complexes, making it a popular base for both business travelers and tourists seeking luxury accommodations with easy access to the city's attractions and Tanzania's famous national parks.

Top Things to Do in Oyster Bay

Relax at Coco Beach

Spend a day at one of Dar es Salaam's most popular beaches, featuring soft white sand and clear Indian Ocean waters. The beach offers excellent swimming conditions, beachside restaurants, and stunning sunset views. Local vendors sell fresh coconuts, grilled seafood, and traditional snacks along the shoreline.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but bring cash for food and drinks ($5-15 per meal). Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds, and arrive in late afternoon for the best sunset experience. Negotiate prices with vendors beforehand.

Explore Kivukoni Fish Market

Experience the bustling atmosphere of one of East Africa's largest fish markets, where fishermen bring their daily catch from the Indian Ocean. The market offers an authentic glimpse into local life and commerce, with hundreds of varieties of fresh fish, octopus, and shellfish. Early morning visits provide the most activity and freshest selections.

Booking Tip: Visit between 6-9 AM for peak activity, entry is free but tip your guide $5-10. Bring cash for purchases and wear comfortable shoes. Consider hiring a local guide for $15-20 to navigate and translate.

Visit National Museum and House of Culture

Discover Tanzania's rich history and cultural heritage through extensive collections of archaeological finds, ethnographic displays, and historical artifacts. The museum features fossils from Olduvai Gorge, traditional crafts, and exhibits on the country's struggle for independence. The adjacent House of Culture hosts cultural performances and art exhibitions.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is $3 for adults, open Tuesday-Sunday 9 AM-6 PM. Allow 2-3 hours for full exploration. Photography permits cost extra $5. Guided tours available for $10-15 and highly recommended for historical context.

Take a Dhow Sunset Cruise

Sail along the Dar es Salaam coastline aboard a traditional dhow boat, enjoying spectacular views of the city skyline and Indian Ocean. These traditional Arab sailing vessels offer a romantic and peaceful way to experience the coastal beauty while learning about maritime history. Most cruises include refreshments and local music.

Booking Tip: Prices range $25-50 per person for 2-3 hour cruises. Book through reputable operators and confirm safety equipment is included. Best during dry season (June-September). Private charters available for $200-400.

Shop at Slipway Shopping Center

Browse this waterfront shopping complex featuring local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs alongside international brands. The center offers stunning ocean views, multiple dining options, and regular cultural events. It's an excellent place to purchase Tanzanian coffee, spices, textiles, and handmade jewelry while enjoying the sea breeze.

Booking Tip: Free entry with ample parking available. Bargaining is acceptable at craft stalls but not in formal shops. Most vendors accept US dollars. Allow 2-3 hours for shopping and dining, with meals costing $10-25.

Getting There

Oyster Bay is easily accessible from Julius Nyerere International Airport, located about 45 minutes away by car. Taxis from the airport cost $25-40, while ride-sharing services like Uber are available for $15-25. Many hotels offer airport shuttle services for $20-30 per person. If arriving from other parts of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam is well-connected by bus services, with the main bus terminal (Ubungo) about 30 minutes from Oyster Bay. Domestic flights connect to major cities like Arusha, Mwanza, and Zanzibar through Dar es Salaam Airport.

Getting Around

Getting around Oyster Bay and greater Dar es Salaam is best accomplished through a combination of taxis, ride-sharing apps, and private drivers. Uber and Bolt operate reliably in the area with typical rides costing $3-10 within the city. Traditional taxis are widely available but negotiate fares beforehand ($5-15 for most trips). For day trips and extended touring, hiring a private driver costs $50-80 per day. Public transportation includes daladalas (minibuses) for $0.50-1 per ride, though they can be crowded. Walking is pleasant within Oyster Bay itself, but less recommended for longer distances due to traffic and heat.

Where to Stay

Oyster Bay Peninsula
Msasani Peninsula
Upanga District
Kinondoni Waterfront
Mikocheni Area
Sea Cliff Village

Food & Dining

Oyster Bay offers an excellent dining scene ranging from upscale international restaurants to local Tanzanian eateries. The area is known for fresh seafood restaurants serving grilled fish, prawns, and lobster with Indian Ocean views. Popular local dishes include ugali (cornmeal staple), nyama choma (grilled meat), and pilau rice. International cuisine is well-represented with Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Lebanese options. Beachfront restaurants offer romantic dining experiences, while local food markets provide authentic and budget-friendly meals. Expect to pay $15-40 for dinner at upscale restaurants, $8-15 at mid-range establishments, and $3-8 for local fare.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Daressalaam

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Samaki Samaki restaurant

4.5 /5
(6773 reviews) 2

Karambezi Cafe

4.5 /5
(4117 reviews) 2
cafe store

Epi d'or

4.5 /5
(2570 reviews) 2
bakery store

Grand Restaurant

4.5 /5
(1654 reviews) 2

Akemi Revolving Restaurant

4.5 /5
(1654 reviews) 2

G’eez Hangout - Restaurant & Pizza

4.5 /5
(357 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Oyster Bay is during the dry season from June to October, when temperatures are comfortable (70-85°F), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. This period offers ideal conditions for beach activities, outdoor dining, and sightseeing. The short dry season from December to February is also pleasant but slightly warmer and more humid. Avoid the long rainy season (March-May) when heavy downpours can disrupt activities, though this period offers lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds. The short rainy season (November) brings brief afternoon showers but generally doesn't significantly impact travel plans.

Insider Tips

Exchange money at banks or authorized forex bureaus for better rates than hotels, and always carry small bills for tips and local purchases
Book restaurant reservations in advance, especially for waterfront dining during sunset hours, as popular spots fill up quickly
Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting markets or local neighborhoods, and always ask permission before photographing people

Explore Activities in Oyster Bay