Zanzibar Island is a jewel in the ocean, surrounded by beaches that rate among the finest in the world. Here you can swim, snorkel or just lounge the hour’s away, while shoals of luminous fish graze over nearby coral gardens and pods of dolphins frolic offshore.
Popular as a post-safari choice, a Zanzibar holiday can also be a great stand-alone escape. The main island offers an exceptional diversity of accommodation, from simple beach lodges and small boutique hotels to all-inclusive beach resorts and luxury hotels. Nearly all beach hotels also include restaurants with typical western cuisine at varying degrees of quality. Accommodation at the beaches is often more expensive, with the cheapest options starting at TSh 50,000. See the individual articles for hotel listings:
For those looking for the very best that Zanzibar has to offer, including its most secluded beaches with flour-like sand and ultimate seclusion, Kiwengwa is a great fit – marine life here is outstanding and the snorkeling is first rate. For a more upbeat experience along the coastline, Nungwi’s features some of Zanzibar’s most vivacious beaches. Still, for a quiet experience but away from the beach and closer to the gifts of nature, Jambiani and Pongwe are Zanzibar’s best offers. For those travelling to Zanzibar with kite boarding in mind, Paje will provide the best of experiences. Finally, for travellers on a budget, Bwejuu is a great place to enjoy Zanzibar’s natural gifts.
You are certainly going to find a relaxed pace of life here, making it the perfect place for a beach-clad getaway. There are turquoise seas, palm trees, and plenty of opportunities to kick back and relax.
- Kiwengwa
Kiwengwa is one of the most heavily developed stretches of coastlines in Zanzibar. Beyond that, it’s perhaps the most secluded and exotic section of Zanzibar. This area is popular on account of its white sand beaches. In fact, Kiwengwa beaches are known for their unbeatable locations and tourist-friendly amenities.
Here, you will find several bars, restaurants and other tourist-friendly enterprises; but most tourists have been attracted by the wide sandy beaches for which the area is rightly well known. Not only is Kiwengwa great for romantics, but younger travellers looking for hassle-free entertainment and to meet others as visitors often take time to tour local villages.
Where to stay at Kiwengwa;
Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa – Featuring a terrace with Indian Ocean views, set by sandy Kiwengwa Beach, the 30-acre site includes a spa, pool and sports facilities. The entertainment is amazing. Staff are so friendly and the food selections at buffet is huge and it changes every day. The beach is also beautiful as well as the resort itself.
Sultan Sands Island Resort – Located on the beachfront with views of the Indian Ocean, Sultan Sands offers traditional-style African huts with a balcony or terrace. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful, especially the manager, Mr. Dass. The location is excellent, the food is fantastic and you will find the whole experience to be very good value for money.
Sea Crest Hotel – Situated in Kiwengwa, a few steps from Kiwengwa Beach, Sea Crest Hotel features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a shared lounge. Delicious local quisine, I mean this is something really worth trying. Close to the ocean and beautiful beach. Excellent hotel staff! Always helpful and nice, they will make you feel like at home. Or even better.
Marafiki Bungalows – Marafiki Bungalows is located on the beach in Kiwengwa, overlooking the ocean. Zanzibar International Airport is a 1 hour drive away. Jambo!! The staff are really amazing and helpful, which is one of the best parts of the Marafiki experience. The location is excellent, far enough away from the touristy part of the beach to feel peaceful, but close enough to walk (on the beach) if you want to see more activity. Really great place to stay in Zanzibar.
- Nungwi
Nungwi is a charming little village at the northern tip of Zanzibar. For several years, the coastline here has rocketed in popularity to become one of the island’s busiest beach destination.
Here, you will find beachside hustle and bustle, populated by hippies, spring breakers and gap-year students, all enjoying the powdery white sand, stage-set towering palm trees, turquoise waters and sparkling sunshine. On the other side of things, nightlife here is excellent; however, it’s not about glitzy nightclubs and glamorous strips. Here, it’s about revelling on the beach where bonfires blaze, cocktails flow and the music rocks. As dawn breaks, you’ll get a chance to sunbathe, swim and indulge in exotic tropical amenities.
Where to stay in Nungwi;
Z Hotel – Situated along Nungwi Beach, Z Hotel features an infinity swimming pool, a spa and, a restaurant overlooking the Indian Ocean. The hotel also offers a champagne and cocktail bar. Everything! Staff were friendly and professional, unbelievable location and super clean rooms!
Amaan Nungwi Hotel – Set in Nungwi, Amaan Nungwi Annex boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. Guests can also have a drink at the bar. Free Wi-Fi is also accessible throughout the property.
Badolina Bungalows – Featuring a restaurant, bar, garden and free Wi-Fi, Badolina Bungalows is located in Nungwi, 50 metres from Nungwi Beach and 600 metres from Royal Beach. Beautiful areas to relax. Staff are so friendly and relaxed. So close to beach, great food and drinks. AC in the rooms.
Pasha Nungwi Hotel – Set in the Nungwi Beach district of Nungwi, Pasha Nungwi Hotel offers a garden, a terrace and a shared lounge. Boasting a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a restaurant. The owners are really lovely and helpful for everything. The staff is also really nice and they prepare really nice breakfasts in the morning. You really feel at home!
- Jambiani
This little fishing village was until recently virtually inaccessible and untainted by commercial tourism. It is an approximately 4 kilometres long and narrow stretch of startling white sand along a classic coral lagoon.
Today the village remains largely un-spoilt and as such is excellent for adventurous spirits. In Jambiani, visitors get a chance to immerse themselves in the quiet and private atmosphere of the eco-friendly surroundings; whether it is the wildlife, the tropical plants or the breathtaking white sand beach that embraces s the turquoise blue Indian Ocean. As such, the village has many small and intimate places to stay.
Over the past few years, Jambiani has also been seeing an increase in visitor arrivals with an increase in kite surfing, diving and snorkelling along the lagoon.
Where to stay in Jambiani;
Kupaga Villas Boutique Hotel – Set in Jambiani, a few steps from Jambiani Beach, Kupaga Villas Boutique Hotel offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar. Very clean, functional rooms, each with a small terrace and good ocean view. The bath room has two lavatories and great water pressure in the shower. The restaurant is excellent! With good variety and great value all day around. The included breakfast for house guests is good, copious and for those with more appetite there are a whole bunch of options. The location is in one of the most beautiful beaches of the island. The staff is friendly and make you feel welcome from the start.
The Spot – Located in the Jambiani Beach district of Jambiani with an outdoor swimming pool, The Spot offers accommodation with free WiFi. The staff, the location and absolutely everything!
Blue Moon Resort – Set in Jambiani, Blue Moon Resort offers its guests free WiFi, private beach access and an outdoor swimming pool with a solarium. It took my husband breath away from the first day. You are in paradise. The staff is so family and welcoming.
Blue Oyster Hotel – Situated along the white, sand Jambiani Beach, Blue Oyster Hotel features sun loungers along the beach with thatched Makuti parasols. There is also a rooftop restaurant and a beach bar. Super hotel! Friendly, excellent room, superb breakfast. Exceede all expectations!
Villa Juliana – Providing beachfront accommodation in Jambiani in the East Coast of Zanzibar, Villa Juliana features an infinity pool from where guests can enjoy views of the sea. Beautifully designed and decorated property. Intimate and peaceful with lots of shade and nice places to relax. Gorgeous view. Kind and lovely staff. Food is yummy.
- Paje
Paje is a lagoon village on the Tanzanian island of Unguja, part of Zanzibar. Paje is for those who enjoy the thrill of the wind, including windsurfers, wake boarders and kite flyers. This is due to a very consistent side-onshore wind that blows most of the year. Indeed, this is where the kite centers and best wind conditions can be found with a variety of different conditions.
As such, Paje features kite centers with the latest equipment, amenities and instructors to help visitors make the best of their kiting experience. Snorkeling and diving are also relatively popular activities here as the reefs are excellent.
Where to stay in Peje,
Summer Beach Paje – Located within 50 km of Peace Memorial Museum and Hamamni Persian Baths, Summer Beach Paje offers rooms in Zanzibar City. Really chill vibe. The food and drinks are good and the staff is chilled. The view from the rooms and the terrace is absolutely gorgeous and the beach is at your doorstep.
B4 Beach Club – Located in Paje, a few steps from Paje Beach, B4 Beach Club provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar. The property is located on a fabulous beach, great for swimming. The staff is attentive and friendly and is always happy to help. The entire place has a great vibe and is perfect for every kind of traveler. Definitely worth a visit!
Jaribu Beach Hotel – Offering an outdoor pool and a private beach area, Jaribu Beach Hotel is set in Paje in the Zanzibar Region, 39 km from Zanzibar City. Great location. The hosts and staff are so helpful, kind and friendly. The rooms are lovely and the resort grounds are wonderful. Beautiful beach, sunsets and sun rises. So relaxing and accommodative.
White Sands – Situated in Paje, a few steps from Paje Beach, White Sands features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a private beach area and a terrace. Perfect location on the most amazing beach, very helpful staff. There is Wi-Fi in the room even it should only be in public areas. Nice breakfast on the balcony and great seafood dinner.
- Pongwe
Pongwe is one of Zanzibar’s quieter destinations. It’s more remote and less developed than Kiwengwa and as such there’s not a lot to do here. Instead, this island is about pure relaxation. It’s about peace, quiet, seclusion, complete bliss and serenity.
No wonder Pongwe is a popular destination for persons looking to recover from illnesses or rejuvenate, for a chance to unwind. Indeed, Pongwe is also excellent for romantics who like the seduction of nature as secluded lagoons, bays and other idyllic locations are numerous across the length and breadth of this stretch of coastline.
Where to stay in Pongwe
Seasons Lodge Zanzibar – Featuring a private beach area, Seasons Lodge Zanzibar is a hotel in Pongwe offering water sports facilities and garden. The property also features an outdoor swimming pool. Very friendly staff & great hospitality. Lovely beach villas!
Tikitam Palms hotel – Set in Pongwe and featuring a private beach area on the East Coast of Zanzibar, Tikitam Palms Hotel boasts a swimming pool at the beach area with a pool bar. Fantastic boutique hotel!! Paradise!!
Queen of Sheba Beach Lodge – Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Queen of Sheba Beach Lodge is located in Pongwe. Free Wi-Fi access is available. Each room here will provide you with a balcony, a terrace and a seating area….
Azao Resort & Spa – Situated on the shore of the Indian Ocean, Azao Resort & Spa offers guests a relaxing getaway in Pongwe, Zanzibar. The resort features an outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi in the public areas. Good hotel, which has very nice rooms, Wi-Fi works everywhere, nice pool, and friendly staffs.
Pongwe Bay Resort – Pongwe Bay Resort is situated on Pongwe Beach. This beachfront resort is surrounded by a lush and tropical garden, white sand beach and a swimming pool. Great staff and friendly ambience. Good food friendly staff great place.
- Bwejuu
Considered by many to be the most beautiful island in the archipelago, Bwejuu is a coastal village situated South of Mafia. Bwejuu is great for hanging out and lounging on the beaches. Here you will find a broad coral lagoon backed by several groves of coconut palms amidst thatched house villages. There are several luxury accommodations here that are some of the best of at the lower end in Zanzibar. This area is good for all budgets; visitors can choose to live simply and closer to nature or amidst a bit more luxury. There are several beaches here that are so spectacular that they have been included in Conde Nast Traveller’s top 30 beaches in the world.
As such, swimming in the turquoise waters just off the beach is a wonderful experience. Furthermore, snorkelling and diving can be enjoyed as well. The distinction of these beaches is that it’s largely secluded. As such, you won’t be sharing most of the area with many other tourists. Notably, visitors will find a few excellent restaurants in the area offering traditional Tanzanian food.
Where to stay in Pongwe
The African Paradise Beach Hotel – Located in Bwejuu, a few steps from Bwejuu Beach, The African Paradise Beach Hotel provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, free bikes and a bar. Best owners ever! We definitely felt at home! Amazing hotel and restaurant! Seafood and burgers are so delicious! You really need to try octopus and king fish! The one and only good food in Zanzibar. Rooms are so cleaned, beach is great. Incredible breakfast with not only fruit or omelet and also pancakes!
Anna of Zanzibar – Situated on Bwejuu Beach on Zanzibar’s east coast, Anna of Zanzibar is set in a tropical garden and offers an outdoor pool, spa and shared lounge area. Stone Town is 1-hour away. We loved everything about the hotel! It was peaceful, relaxing, mind clearing stay! Definitely recommend this hotel for couples. For escaping from reality!
Mustapha’ s Place – Situated in Bwejuu, a few steps from Paje Beach, Mustapha’ s Place features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar. Mustapha’s place is a little piece of heaven. A perfect place for solo traveler who want to experience Zanzibar culture, to meet local people and other travelers. The staff is super friendly, helpful and make you feel like home! Great breakfast and amazing food. Once you get in, it’s hard to leave the place.
Bahati Hotel Villas – Situated in Bwejuu, 300 metres from Bwejuu Beach, Bahati Hotel Villas features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a garden.
- Stone Town
The largest town in the archipelago and the capital, Stone Town is located in the middle of the west coast of Unguja, the main island. Named for the coral stone buildings that were built there during 1800, Stone Town is known as the ‘Old City’ and cultural heart of Zanzibar. Indeed, little changed here in the last 200 years; and as such, it’s rife with historical significance. Due to this heritage, Stone Town is also a major attraction for visitors to Tanzania.
The city’s architecture dates all the way back to the 19th century and reflects the diverse influences of several underlying cultures. Due to this rich blend of art and history, Stone Town was designated a UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 2000.
Nevertheless, the town retains its urban fabric and townscape virtually intact with its fine buildings and unique culture. What better way to explore Moorish, Arab, Persian, Indian and European elements than in one place? Everything here reflects this mixture, including the people, the brass-studded monuments, bustling oriental bazaars, marble balconies, carved doors, twirling stairways, carved wooden lodgings and everything else. With such amazing sites to explore, some visitors spend days strolling along the fascinating and magical labyrinth of narrow streets and cobbled alleyways.
So Park Hyatt Zanzibar – You don’t get much more luxurious than the Park Hyatt Zanzibar with its 5-star quality guest rooms and enviable beachfront location. Spread across two white and red-roofed buildings, one of which is a heritage building dating back to the 17th-century and the other more modern, the hotel is the ideal combination of the old and new. With access to a sandy beach, an outdoor pool, and a luxurious spa, relaxation is the order of the day. When the sun goes down, dining here is an absolute dream – you’ll be tended to by world-class chefs and sommeliers.
Tembo House Hotel – Located in a grand old building, the Arabian-style Tembo House Hotel once served as the American Consulate. Inside, the guest rooms are truly special, with authentic wood carved furniture, a Swahili-style four-poster bed, and a bathroom with a pampering hammam bath. When you aren’t relaxing on your own private balcony overlooking the pool or ocean, you’ll be tucking into delicious dishes at the on-site restaurant – take your pick of typical Zanzibari cuisine or old-time international favorites.
Mizingani Seafront Hotel – Set inside a historic building that’s home to one of the most retro elevators on the island, the 4-star Mizingani Seafront Hotel was originally built as a vacation home for royal honeymooners. Today, the hotel still boasts an air of romance, with Swahili-style four-poster beds, a crystal-clear pool perfect for lounging, and an on-site seafood restaurant where guests can admire the exceptional sunsets the archipelago is so known for. Each room comes with its own entrance, a mosquito net, and a balcony overlooking the sea or the pool.
Al-Minar Hotel – Located within an elegant Arabian-style building with handcrafted woodwork and a rooftop terrace, the Al-Minar Hotel has an authentic feel to it. Less than five minutes from the beach, each room is furnished in an African style, with dark wood furniture and beds draped in mosquito nets. One of the perks of the hotel is its excellent location within walking distance of the Old Fort of Zanzibar and the Peace Memorial Museum. Guests staying at this 3-star hotel will also enjoy a complimentary breakfast every day of their stay.me of the hotels here includes,
- Michamvi
You will find Michamvi in the southeast corner of Ugunja island. This peninsula is well known for its gleaming white beaches, scatterings of palm trees, as well as a stretch of the incredible barrier reef to explore. The tide goes out for hundreds of meters here, and it’s a great place for snorkeling or splashing around in the shallows.
A relatively rural and untouched part of this island, the backpackers who used to frequent this ten-kilometer peninsula have been replaced by luxurious holidaymakers staying at beach retreats. However, there is still plenty of room – development hasn’t completely overrun this part of the island. On the east side of the peninsula, there are plenty of dive schools; these are great places to learn to dive since they’re not overcrowded. The Oba-Oba Lagoon is here, where diving and snorkeling are the order of the day. Kite-surfing and sailing are not out of the question, either.
Where to Stay in Michamvi
Pearl Beach Resort – With no less than two private beaches, the 4-star Pearl Beach Resort is an Indian Ocean oasis with red rooftops peeking through the lush tropical jungle. Set within a secluded estate, the hotel features an infinity pool carved into the rock face, a tempting pool bar, a sky-high yoga pavilion and spa, and a clifftop restaurant with endless views of the ocean. For those looking for more than a fly and flop holiday, the resort offers limitless entertainment with live music nights, themed dinners, beach parties, and its own dhow excursions.