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The Waterfront restaurant in Dar es Salaam, DS
Photo: Google
View of The Waterfront in Dar es Salaam, DS
Photo: Google
View of The Waterfront in Dar es Salaam, DS
Photo: Google

The Waterfront

4.3(1,776 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1.5 to 3 hours👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers enjoy the open spaces for running around, while older kids and teens appreciate the waterfront atmosphere and nearby shopping. The flat, paved paths are perfect for strollers and young children learning to walk.

About

The Waterfront at The Slipway offers families a beautiful coastal escape with walking paths along Dar es Salaam's stunning Indian Ocean shoreline. Kids can run freely in the open spaces while parents enjoy the sea breezes and scenic views, with plenty of restaurants and seating areas making it perfect for a relaxed family outing. The combination of outdoor space and nearby dining options creates an ideal spot for families to unwind after exploring the city.

Highlights

  • Scenic walking paths along the Indian Ocean with spectacular sunset views
  • Safe, well-maintained open spaces perfect for kids to run and play
  • Multiple family-friendly restaurants and cafes with diverse cuisine options
  • Small playground area for younger children
  • Shopping boutiques and craft vendors offering local Tanzanian goods

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit in the late afternoon around 4-5 PM to enjoy cooler temperatures and catch the beautiful sunset over the Indian Ocean.
  2. 2.Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water as shade can be limited along the walking paths and the tropical sun is intense year-round.
  3. 3.The Slipway complex has clean, modern restrooms and a small playground area that many visitors miss, located near the restaurant section.
  4. 4.Currency exchange and ATMs are available on-site, and most restaurants accept credit cards, but bring Tanzanian shillings for small purchases from vendors.
  5. 5.Weekday visits are generally quieter than weekends when local families flock here, making it easier to find seating and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon to early evening (4-7 PM) on weekdays offers the best experience with cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and spectacular sunset views. The dry season from June to October provides the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

What to Know

Parking is available at The Slipway complex. The area features multiple family-friendly restaurants with international and local cuisine, clean facilities, and a safe, well-maintained environment popular with expat and local families alike.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round. The dry season (June to October) offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity. The rainy season (March to May) may see brief afternoon showers but the area remains accessible. Weekends and Tanzanian public holidays tend to be busier with local families.

Follow The Waterfront

Nearby Eats

The Slipway complex houses numerous restaurants including Karambezi Cafe (seafood with ocean views) and Cape Town Fish Market (family-friendly with kids menu). The Waterfront Food Court offers casual options like pizza, ice cream, and quick bites perfect for picky eaters.

More Activities Near Dar es Salaam

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Oysterbay Beach Park

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Oysterbay Beach Park offers families a wonderful escape along Dar es Salaam's coastline with plenty of green space for kids to run free and ocean breezes to keep everyone cool. The combination of walking trails, picnic areas, and beach access makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed day outdoors where children can explore nature while parents enjoy the peaceful ocean views.

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Oyster Bay

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Oyster Bay offers families a refreshing coastal escape with open green spaces perfect for letting kids run free while you enjoy stunning Indian Ocean views. This peaceful park combines the best of beachside relaxation and outdoor play, making it ideal for picnics, kite flying, and introducing children to Tanzania's beautiful coastline without the hustle of commercial beaches.

Water Park

Pirates Beach Water Park

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Pirates Beach Water Park offers a refreshing escape from Dar es Salaam's tropical heat with slides, splash areas, and pools designed for family fun. This compact water park provides a manageable, less overwhelming experience for younger children while still offering enough excitement to keep the whole family entertained. It's an ideal spot to cool off and let kids burn energy in a safe, aquatic environment.

Restaurant

Samaki Samaki Restaurant

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Samaki Samaki offers families the perfect combination of delicious seafood and international dishes right on the beach in Dar es Salaam. Kids can enjoy their meals and then play on the sand just steps away, while parents relax in the casual, welcoming atmosphere. The dedicated kids' menu and beachfront location make it an ideal spot for a leisurely family lunch or early dinner.