Discover the best Zanzibar beach resorts for luxury, privacy, wellness, and family stays complete with prices, features, and booking tips for every traveler.
Zanzibar beach resorts offer a wide range of experiences for travelers seeking privacy, luxury, wellness, or family-friendly comfort. From the exclusive seclusion of &Beyond Mnemba Island to the eco-conscious design of Zuri Zanzibar and the opulent all-inclusive service at Baraza Resort, each property delivers something unique. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a solo retreat, or a group vacation, Zanzibar’s coastline provides swimmable beaches, coral reefs, and personalized service across every budget level. Resorts are spread across areas like Kendwa, Bwejuu, Pongwe, and Matemwe, each with its own vibe from lively and social to quiet and remote.
This guide highlights the best 15 Zanzibar beach resorts with practical details on pricing, location, and what each resort offers. You’ll find insights into room types, dining options, wellness features, and activities like snorkeling, yoga, and water sports. It’s designed to help you choose the right resort based on your travel style, whether you want a private villa with a plunge pool or a full-service resort with restaurants and kids’ clubs. With clear comparisons and direct language, this resource avoids generic advice and focuses on what matters most to travelers—comfort, value, and a well-planned stay on Zanzibar’s coast
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Best 15 Zanzibar Beach Resorts with Best Experience
&Beyond Mnemba Island
&Beyond Mnemba Island is one of the most exclusive Zanzibar beach resorts, offering just 10 rustic-chic bandas on a private island. Each banda comes with a personal butler and direct beach access. Guests enjoy marine life sightings including dolphins, whale sharks, and sea turtles nesting nearby. The resort is ideal for couples and luxury travelers seeking total privacy. Rates start from $1,500 per person per night, including meals and activities. This is one of the few Zanzibar beach resorts where you can snorkel straight from your banda and enjoy candlelit dinners on the sand without crowds or noise. It’s remote, quiet, and tailored for those who want full seclusion with high-end service.
Kilindi Zanzibar
Kilindi Zanzibar in Kendwa offers 15 white-domed pavilions spread across lush gardens, each with multiple plunge pools and ocean views. Once the home of ABBA’s Benny Andersson, it’s now one of the top Zanzibar beach resorts for honeymooners and couples who value privacy and open-air living. The resort’s design blends Scandinavian simplicity with Swahili architecture. Prices start around $900 per night for two, including half-board. Kilindi stands out among Zanzibar beach resorts for its personal attention, with each guest assigned a dedicated attendant. It’s quiet, romantic, and ideal for those who want luxury without the formality of traditional hotels.
The Residence Zanzibar
Located in Kizimkazi, The Residence Zanzibar offers spacious private pool villas set in tropical gardens with direct beach access. It’s one of the Zanzibar beach resorts that caters well to both couples and families, with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching. The massive infinity pool and secluded beach make it a strong choice for privacy seekers. Rates start from $600 per night for a one-bedroom villa with breakfast. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, The Residence is known for its large villa sizes and peaceful setting, away from the busier northern beaches. It’s ideal for travelers who want space, quiet, and full-service comfort.
Zuri Zanzibar
Zuri Zanzibar in Kendwa is one of the most eco-conscious Zanzibar beach resorts, offering 55 bungalows and villas designed for comfort and sustainability. Guests enjoy three restaurants, four bars, a spa, yoga deck, and a “wild fitness” gym. The beach is wide and swimmable year-round, and the resort’s design encourages barefoot luxury without sacrificing service. Prices start around $500 per night for a bungalow with breakfast. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, Zuri stands out for its wellness focus and stylish, low-impact architecture. It’s ideal for couples who want a balance of relaxation, health, and design-forward accommodation.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Essque Zalu Zanzibar sits on the northern tip of Nungwi and offers a dramatic oceanfront setting with a long jetty bar suspended over the water. It’s one of the few Zanzibar beach resorts with a PADI dive center and premium all-inclusive option. The infinity pool overlooks the ocean, and the suites and villas are spacious and modern. Rates start from $400 per night for a suite, with all-inclusive packages available. Essque Zalu is ideal for couples and families who want a stylish resort with diving, dining, and easy access to Nungwi’s attractions. It’s quieter than most northern resorts but still close to activities.
Baraza Resort & Spa
Baraza Resort & Spa in Bwejuu blends Swahili, Omani, and Indian design with high-end service. It’s one of the most opulent Zanzibar beach resorts, offering private plunge pools, gourmet all-inclusive dining, and premium drinks. The spa is large and well-equipped, and the beach is quiet and swimmable. Prices start around $900 per night for a villa, all-inclusive. Baraza is ideal for families and couples who want luxury without needing to leave the resort. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, it’s known for its architecture, food quality, and consistent service.
Melia Zanzibar
Melia Zanzibar in Kiwengwa is one of the most full-service Zanzibar beach resorts, offering six restaurants, five bars, a massive pool, and a coral reef just offshore. Its “The Level” service includes a private lounge, pool, and upgraded amenities. Families benefit from the kids’ club, while couples enjoy the adults-only beach area. Prices start around $450 per night for a standard room, with all-inclusive options available. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, Melia is ideal for travelers who want variety, convenience, and a mix of relaxation and activity without leaving the property. It’s polished, spacious, and well-managed.
Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort
Tulia Zanzibar in Pongwe is a boutique all-inclusive resort with just 16 rooms, known for its unique pool with a waterslide and fast WiFi. It’s one of the few Zanzibar beach resorts that includes water sports, airport transfers, and à la carte dining in the rate. The atmosphere is quiet and personal, with a focus on comfort and service. Rates start from $600 per night for two, all-inclusive. Tulia is best for couples and solo travelers who want a small, well-run resort with thoughtful extras and a peaceful beachfront. It’s stylish without being flashy.
Xanadu Villas
Xanadu Villas in Matemwe offers just nine private villas, each with a personal butler and private pool. Located in a quiet fishing village, it’s one of the most peaceful Zanzibar beach resorts for couples and honeymooners. The villas are spacious and luxurious, with indoor and outdoor living areas. Rates start from $1,200 per night, all-inclusive. Xanadu focuses on privacy, personalized service, and gourmet dining. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, it’s a top choice for travelers who want high-end comfort in a quiet, non-commercial setting. It’s not for nightlife seekers but perfect for rest and reconnection.
Pongwe Beach Hotel
Pongwe Beach Hotel is a charming, eco-conscious resort tucked into a secluded cove where the beach is swimmable at all tides. It’s one of the most affordable Zanzibar beach resorts offering real value, with rooms starting around $250 per night including breakfast. There are no TVs, and the vibe is quiet and relaxed. The resort focuses on simplicity, comfort, and natural beauty. Pongwe Beach Hotel is ideal for couples and solitude seekers who want a peaceful stay without luxury pricing. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, it’s a favorite for those who value quiet, clean beaches and personal service.
The Palms
The Palms in Bwejuu offers just six villas, each with a private pool and butler service. It’s one of the most intimate Zanzibar beach resorts, designed for couples who want privacy and high-end service. The décor is elegant, with Swahili-inspired touches and ocean views. Rates start from $1,200 per night, all-inclusive. Guests also have access to the sister properties Baraza and Breezes for added dining and spa options. The Palms is ideal for honeymoons or special occasions where quiet, comfort, and attention to detail matter. It’s one of the most exclusive Zanzibar beach resorts on the southeast coast.
Matemwe Lodge
Matemwe Lodge overlooks the Mnemba Atoll and offers 12 spacious suites with hammocks, sea views, and a relaxed vibe. It’s one of the quieter Zanzibar beach resorts, perfect for travelers who want to snorkel, read, and unwind. The lodge is known for its friendly staff, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere. Rates start around $400 per night, including meals. Matemwe Lodge is ideal for couples and solo travelers who want to be close to nature without sacrificing comfort. Among Zanzibar beach resorts, it’s a top pick for those who value views, calm, and a slower pace
Best time to book Zanzibar beach resorts for a vacation
The best time to book Zanzibar beach resorts for a vacation is between June and October or mid-December to February, when the weather is dry, sunny, and ideal for beach activities. These months offer the most reliable conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the coast without heavy rains or humidity. Booking 4–6 months in advance is recommended, especially for high-demand resorts like &Beyond Mnemba Island, Zuri Zanzibar, or Baraza Resort, which fill up quickly during peak seasons. Prices are highest from Christmas to New Year, so early planning helps secure better rates and preferred room types. If you're looking for quieter stays and lower prices, consider shoulder months like May or November, when some Zanzibar beach resorts offer discounts and fewer crowds. Always check cancellation policies and seasonal closures before confirming
How to get there to Zanzibar beach resorts for a vacation
To reach Zanzibar beach resorts for a vacation, fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar City, which connects to major hubs like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Doha, and Istanbul. From the airport, most resorts offer private transfers or you can arrange a taxi or shuttle to your destination. Northern resorts like Zuri Zanzibar and Essque Zalu are about 1.5 hours by road, while southeastern options like Baraza and The Palms take roughly 1 hour. For Mnemba Island, a boat transfer is arranged from the northeast coast. Booking transfers directly with your resort ensures smoother logistics. If you're coming from mainland Tanzania, ferries from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town are available, but flying is faster and more reliable. Always confirm arrival details with your chosen Zanzibar beach resorts to avoid delays
Best Zanzibar beaches not miss during your stay at Zanzibar beach resorts
During your stay at Zanzibar beach resorts, Kendwa Beach is a must-visit for its wide, powdery sand and year-round swimmable waters. Located on the northwest coast, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and sunset walks. Resorts like Zuri Zanzibar and Kilindi are nearby, offering easy access to Kendwa’s calm tides and vibrant beachside atmosphere. Unlike other beaches affected by tides, Kendwa remains perfect for swimming all day. It’s also known for its relaxed vibe and occasional beach parties, making it suitable for both quiet days and social evenings.
Paje Beach on the southeast coast is another standout, especially for water sports. It’s one of the best spots for kitesurfing in Zanzibar, with consistent winds and shallow turquoise waters. Nearby resorts like Baraza and The Palms offer easy access to Paje’s long stretch of sand and active beach scene. You’ll find local cafes, kite schools, and laid-back bars along the shore. Paje is ideal for travelers who want a mix of activity and relaxation while staying at Zanzibar beach resorts. It’s lively without being crowded, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned kite surfers
Best things to do while staying at Zanzibar beach resorts
While staying at Zanzibar beach resorts, one of the top activities is exploring the underwater world. Most resorts offer direct access to coral reefs, with snorkeling and diving trips to spots like Mnemba Atoll or Kendwa Reef. You’ll see vibrant marine life including turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish. Resorts like Essque Zalu and Melia Zanzibar have PADI dive centers, while others like Pongwe Beach Hotel offer guided snorkeling right off the beach. Whether you're a beginner or experienced diver, the calm waters and clear visibility make this a must-do.
Another highlight is enjoying wellness and spa treatments. Zanzibar beach resorts like Zuri Zanzibar and Baraza Resort offer full-service spas with massages, facials, and yoga sessions. Some include unique wellness programs like “wild fitness” or beachfront meditation. These experiences are ideal for travelers looking to relax, recover from jet lag, or simply enjoy quiet time. Many resorts also offer couples’ treatments and sunset yoga, adding value to romantic or wellness-focused vacations.
Cultural and culinary experiences are also worth planning. Resorts like The Residence Zanzibar and Kilindi offer Swahili cooking classes, spice tours, and visits to nearby villages. You can learn about local traditions, taste fresh seafood, and explore Stone Town’s history. Dining at Zanzibar beach resorts is often a highlight, with fresh ingredients and ocean views. Some resorts host private beach dinners or themed nights with live music and local dishes, giving guests a deeper connection to the island.
For active travelers, Zanzibar beach resorts offer kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and beach volleyball. Some, like Tulia Zanzibar, include water sports in the rate, while others offer excursions like dolphin watching or deep-sea fishing. You can also take day trips to nearby islands, sandbanks, or Jozani Forest to see red colobus monkeys. Whether you want to stay active or unwind, Zanzibar beach resorts provide a wide range of options tailored to your pace and interests
What to bring for Zanzibar beach resorts
When packing for Zanzibar beach resorts, bring lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, sundresses, and swimwear, plus a light cover-up for evenings. Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for sun and mosquito protection. Include water shoes or sandals for rocky areas, and a dry bag for boat trips or beach walks. Most Zanzibar beach resorts are casual, but a smart outfit is useful for dinners at upscale properties like Baraza or The Palms. Don’t forget snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, and a power adapter (Type G) for UK-style plugs. A small medical kit, reusable water bottle, and copies of travel documents are also smart additions. WiFi is available at most resorts, but downloading offline maps and entertainment helps in remote areas. Pack light but prepared for sun, sea, and comfort
Booking Zanzibar beach resorts with Dav safaris
Booking Zanzibar beach resorts with Dav Safaris ensures a smooth, personalized experience tailored to your travel style and budget. As specialists in East African travel, Dav Safaris offers curated access to top resorts like Zuri Zanzibar, Baraza Resort, and Mnemba Island, handling everything from airport transfers to room selection and activity planning. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, family-friendly stay, or wellness retreat, Dav Safaris matches you with the right property and season. Our team provides clear communication, local insight, and logistical support, making it easier to secure early bookings and exclusive offers. With Dav Safaris, you avoid generic packages and get expert guidance on choosing Zanzibar beach resorts that align with your preferences, ensuring a well-planned and relaxing coastal vacation
