Skip to Content

Where to Stay in Zanzibar, Tanzania: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Zanzibar, Tanzania: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a trip to Zanzibar and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!

This tropical island off the coast of Tanzania is known for its powdery white beaches and turquoise water, but deciding where to base yourself can be tricky. Each area has a completely different feel, and while Zanzibar isn’t that big of an island, the traffic and bumpy roads mean that it can take a while to get from one area to another.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Zanzibar to help you choose your ideal base. We’ll also share our favorite hotel picks for every budget. Let’s get into it!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Bailey-swims-at-a-Nungwi-Beach-Zanzibar Tanzania

This is the area and hotel we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in is Nungwi! It’s perfect for a first visit, with swimmable beaches all day, a fun atmosphere, and plenty to do both on and off the sand.

We love My Blue Hotel Zanzibar for its beachfront location, laid-back feel, and easy access to nearby restaurants, bars, and tours.

Where to Stay in Zanzibar Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Zanzibar

Daniel-and-Bailey-stand-on-a-beach-Zanzibar Tanzania
White sand beaches and luxury? Matemwe is your dream destination!
A-Massai-woman-making-jewelry-at-a-market-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
A Maasai woman making jewelry at the market in Stone Town

Now, technically, Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of over 50 islands. However, the main island is called “Unguja”, and this is what people are usually referring to when they talk about Zanzibar. And on this island alone, there are a lot of different areas with vastly different vibes, so we’ve broken it up into the five best areas. 

Zanzibar isn’t the easiest island to get around, as the road infrastructure isn’t great and public transport is limited, which is why it’s important to choose the right base. We used taxis and private drivers for day trips when we were in Zanzibar, but just be sure to negotiate the price beforehand. We usually did this through our hotel, which was nice and easy. 

For shorter journeys, you can also use Bajaji, which are basically tuk-tuks. They’re not the comfiest, but they can be a lot of fun! There are also Dala-dalas, which are local mini buses, that tend to run between Stone Town and the rest of the island, but they’re not the most reliable, and the drivers have a very loose sense of road rules (to put it politely). 

  • Nungwi Best for beaches – This is one of the most popular areas on the island, known for its swimmable beaches and a wide range of restaurants and activities. My Blue Hotel Zanzibar is a great option right on the beach with a relaxed vibe and easy access to everything.
  • Stone TownBest for history & culture – The historic heart of Zanzibar is full of winding alleys and cultural landmarks, and it’s also ideal for short stays! Bellissimo Boutique Hotel is a charming mid-range stay with stylish rooms and a super-central location
  • PajeBest for budget & adventure travelers – Located on the southeast coast, Paje is a great place for kitesurfing, and it’s also known for its social scene, with lots of beach bars and nightlife spots. Zula Zanzibar is a fun and stylish hotel that won’t break the bank.
  • Jambiani Best for a quiet & local stay – Just south of Paje, this area offers a slower pace with long, peaceful beaches and a more authentic village feel. Blue Oyster Hotel is a top-rated beachfront stay with beautiful ocean views.
  • MatemweBest for luxury travelers – This quieter stretch of coastline is known for its uncrowded beaches and proximity to some of the island’s best snorkeling spots. Boutique Villa Unaweza is a beautiful stay with a peaceful setting and a more private, upscale feel.

Important Tip

Multiple Zanzibar trips have taught us that this island doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Zanzibar accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

Where to Stay in Zanzibar

Nungwi 

Local-Maasai-people-on-the-beach-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-3
Saying hello to a local Maasai man!
Bailey-snorkels-in-Zanzibar Tanzania
And the snorkeling is incredible!

BEST FOR BEACHES

Pros

  • Minimal tides, so you can swim at pretty much any time of day
  • Plenty of restaurants, beach bars, and activities 

Cons

  • One of the busiest and most touristy areas on the island
  • Less of a local, authentic feel compared to other regions

Nungwi sits on the northern tip of Zanzibar and is easily one of the best places to stay if your priority is the beach. Unlike much of the island, the tides here are minimal, which means you can swim throughout the day without worrying about the water disappearing. That alone makes it a smart pick for first-time visitors! 

The main stretch, Nungwi Beach, is wide and lively, while nearby Kendwa Beach is known for its soft white sand and some of the best sunset views on the island. There’s plenty to keep you busy beyond sunbathing, too. You can head out on a traditional dhow cruise, go snorkeling or diving, or visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond to learn more about local conservation efforts.

Nungwi also has one of the best selections of restaurants, bars, and resorts on the island. Options range from casual beach cafés to more upscale dining spots. The area stays active into the evening, with beachside dinners and low-key nightlife options. With its combination of swimmable beaches, activities, and lively atmosphere, it’s a great all-rounder for most travelers.

Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort – $$$ 

Royal-Zanzibar-Beach-Resort-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-1
Photo credit: Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort
Royal-Zanzibar-Beach-Resort-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort

Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort is a beautiful beachfront property located between Nungwi and Kendwa, with direct access to one of the best stretches of sand on the island. The setting offers total vacation vibes, with palm trees and big swimming pools, as well as unobstructed views across the turquoise ocean – bliss! 

The rooms are comfortable and generously sized, and the all-inclusive setup means you don’t have to worry about budgeting for meals and activities. We think that there’s a good mix of relaxation and things to do here, from lounging by the pool to water sports and evening entertainment, which makes it a great option for both couples and families. Rooms here typically start from around $450 per night.

If Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort is fully booked, Riu Palace Swahili is a large beachfront resort located near Nungwi with a more upscale, all-inclusive experience. It offers multiple restaurants, pools, and a polished, resort-style atmosphere.

Turaco Nungwi Resort is another great alternative set right on Nungwi Beach within walking distance of restaurants and bars. It has a more boutique feel, with modern rooms and a smaller, more intimate setup.

My Blue Hotel Zanzibar – $$

My-Blue-Hotel-Zanzibar-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: My Blue Hotel Zanzibar
My-Blue-Hotel-Zanzibar-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-1
Photo credit: My Blue Hotel Zanzibar

My Blue Hotel Zanzibar is a well-located resort right on Nungwi Beach, making it a great base if you want to be close to everything. You can step straight onto the sand, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and tour operators within easy walking distance.

The hotel has a laid-back feel, with a pool overlooking the ocean and a mix of standard rooms and bungalows set among tropical gardens. It’s not overly fancy, but it offers solid value for money in a prime beachfront location, which is hard to beat in this part of Zanzibar. Rooms typically start from around $225 per night.

Another stylish alternative located a short walk from the beach is Maisha Nungwi – Boutique Hotel. It’s smaller, with a boutique feel, so we think it’s a great pick if you want something a little quieter while still being close to the action.

Nungwi Dreams by Mantis is also a solid option set slightly outside the main center on a quieter stretch of beach. It offers spacious rooms and a lovely restaurant terrace with unobstructed ocean views. 

Mnarani Beach Cottages – $ 

Mnarani-Beach-Cottages-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Mnarani Beach Cottages
Mnarani-Beach-Cottages-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-1
Photo credit: Mnarani Beach Cottages

Mnarani Beach Cottages is a budget-friendly stay located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, just outside the main Nungwi Beach area. The setting is quieter and more low-key, which makes it a good choice if you want to avoid the busier parts of town.

The cottages are simple but comfortable, set within a garden right next to the beach, and there’s a pool and small restaurant on-site. It’s perfect if you want somewhere to kick back and relax in a hammock for most of the day, while still staying within easy reach of Nungwi’s attractions. Prices here usually start from around $100 per night.

If Mnarani Beach Cottages is unavailable, Badolina Bungalows is a boutique but budget-friendly stay, with boho decor and a small but very pretty pool area. The vibe here is a bit more social, so we think it’s a great choice if you’re looking to meet other travelers.

Amaan Beach Bungalows is another budget-friendly alternative set directly on Nungwi Beach in a very central location. It offers simple rooms and unbeatable access to the beach and nightlife.

Stone Town 

A-memorial-to-slaves-in-Stone-Town-Zanzibar-Tanzania
A memorial to slaves in Stone Town
A-man-selling-bread-at-a-market-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
The markets are worth exploring

BEST FOR HISTORY & CULTURE

Pros

  • Rich history with unique architecture and cultural landmarks
  • Great for markets and experiencing local life
  • Excellent food scene 

Cons

  • Not a beach destination
  • Can feel busy and a bit hectic during the day
  • We got hassled by touts quite a few times 

Stone Town is the historic heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its maze of narrow streets and centuries-old buildings – although contrary to popular misconception, it’s not the capital! Still, if you’re interested in culture and history, this is easily the most fascinating place to stay on the island, even if it’s just for a night or two before you move onto a beach area. 

Stone Town is definitely the best place to get a feel for Zanzibar’s unique blend of African, Arab, and European influences. We especially loved seeing all of the carved wooden doors and latticed windows as we wandered around.

The area is packed with landmarks, including the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. We especially liked visiting the childhood home of Freddie Mercury, who was born here in Zanzibar. Darajani Market is another must-visit, offering a glimpse into everyday life, while the Forodhani Gardens night market is a great place to try local street food in the evening.

Stone Town is also a good base for a few popular excursions. You can take a short boat trip to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises or head out to Nakupenda Sandbank for a beach day.

While you won’t find swimmable beaches here, Stone Town offers something completely different, with a strong sense of history and local life.

The Neela Boutique Hotel – $$$

The-Neela-Boutique-Hotel-Stone-Town-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: The Neela Boutique Hotel, Stone Town

The Neela Boutique Hotel is a stylish and intimate stay located right in the heart of Stone Town, making it a great base for exploring the area on foot. The design blends historic charm with modern touches, and the overall feel is more boutique and personal than some of the larger hotels in town.

Rooms are thoughtfully designed with a clean, contemporary look, while still reflecting the character of the surrounding area. There’s also a lovely rooftop space where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing, which is always a bonus in Stone Town’s busy center! Rooms here typically start from around $500 USD per night.

Another top choice is Park Hyatt Zanzibar, a luxury beachfront property located right on the edge of Stone Town. It offers spacious rooms, a pool overlooking the ocean, and a very upscale experience.

Alternatively, Zanzibar Serena Hotel is another great option set along the waterfront, with a bit more local character and charm. It combines traditional design with modern comforts, and there’s a wonderful spa on site. 

Bellissimo Boutique Hotel – $$ 

Bellissimo-Boutique-Hotel-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Bellissimo Boutique Hotel
Bellissimo-Boutique-Hotel-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-1
Photo credit: Bellissimo Boutique Hotel

Bellissimo Boutique Hotel is a charming mid-range stay tucked away in the winding streets of Stone Town. It has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and its central location makes it easy to explore the city on foot, yet it also feels like a hidden gem! 

The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and there’s a gorgeous rooftop where you can gaze out over the city and the ocean beyond. It’s a great option if you want something well-located and full of character without stretching your budget too much. Rooms typically start from around $175 USD per night.

If Bellissimo Boutique Hotel is sold out for your travel dates, Turaco Spice Tree is another boutique option located in the heart of Stone Town with a similar cozy feel. It offers comfortable rooms and a great rooftop terrace overlooking the city.

Tembo House Hotel is a more historic alternative set right on the waterfront in a traditional building. It has a lot of character and offers direct access to a private beach, which is rare in Stone Town! 

Mizingani Seafront Hotel – $ 

Mizingani-Seafront-Hotel-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Mizingani Seafront Hotel
Mizingani-Seafront-Hotel-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-1
Photo credit: Mizingani Seafront Hotel

Mizingani Seafront Hotel is a budget-friendly stay set right on the waterfront in Stone Town, with a prime location for exploring the historic center. The building itself has a traditional feel, with classic Zanzibari design elements that add to the overall charm.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many offer views over the ocean or inner courtyard. There’s also a small pool and a restaurant on-site, and the staff really go above and beyond to make guests feel at home. Prices here usually start from around $100 USD per night, including breakfast.

Another affordable option located within walking distance of Stone Town’s main sights is Emerald Palm Boutique Hotel. It offers simple, modern rooms and a clean, comfortable base for sightseeing.

Shaba Boutique Hotel is another great alternative set in a historic building in the heart of Stone Town. It has a lot of character, with traditional decor and a rooftop terrace overlooking the rooftops.

Paje 

Kite surfing in ocean in Paje beach, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Paje is famous for its kitesurfing

BEST FOR BUDGET & ADVENTURE TRAVELERS

Pros

  • Great for kitesurfing, with steady winds and a wide lagoon
  • Fun, social atmosphere with beach bars, cafés, and nightlife 

Cons

  • Strong tides mean the water isn’t always swimmable
  • Can feel busy and a bit noisy in peak areas

Located on the southeast coast, Paje is Zanzibar’s kitesurfing hub! The combination of steady winds and a wide, shallow lagoon makes it an ideal spot for beginners to learn the ropes and for seasoned pros to sharpen their skills. But even if you’re not into kitesurfing, the beach here is absolutely beautiful, with powdery white sand and clear turquoise water when the tide is in.

Beyond the water sports, Paje has a lively, social feel that sets it apart from other parts of the island. You’ll find plenty of beach bars, casual cafés, and co-working-friendly spots, which makes it especially popular with younger travelers and digital nomads. Places like Mr. Kahawa are great for daytime coffee or sunset drinks, and there’s usually something going on in the evenings.

Paje is also a good base for exploring the southeast coast. You can easily head down to Jambiani for a quieter beach day or book snorkeling and boat trips from here. With its mix of affordable stays, fun activities, and social energy, Paje is a great choice if you want something a bit more lively and budget-friendly.

Kisiwa on the Beach – $$$

Kisiwa-on-the-Beach-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Kisiwa on the Beach

Kisiwa on the Beach is a beautiful beachfront resort set on a quieter stretch of Paje. It’s a spacious property that offers a peaceful stay while still being close to the main area. The property offers a blissful stay, with tropical gardens and direct beach access, as well as a more private atmosphere compared to some of the livelier spots nearby.

The villas and rooms are stylish and generously sized, with a blend of traditional Zanzibari design and contemporary comfort. There’s a pool overlooking the ocean, an on-site restaurant, plenty of water sports on offer, and evening entertainment most days. Rooms here typically start from around $500 USD per night.

If Kisiwa on the Beach is sold out for your travel dates, Dhow Inn Boutique Hotel is a charming option located just a short walk from the beach in Paje. It’s a 4-star stay that offers cozy rooms and a more intimate boutique feel.

Samawa Living is another top-rated alternative set right by the beach with a boho minimalist design. It’s a good choice if you’re after something stylish and zen.

Zula Zanzibar – $$ 

Zula-Zanzibar-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Zula Zanzibar
Zula-Zanzibar-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-1
Photo credit: Zula Zanzibar

Zula Zanzibar is a fun and stylish hotel located in the heart of Paje, just a short walk from the beach and the main strip of cafés and bars. It has an easygoing, social vibe that fits perfectly with the energy of the area, making it an excellent choice for younger travelers. 

The rooms are modern and comfortable, and there’s a great pool area surrounded by palm trees where guests tend to hang out during the day. It’s a good option if you want something affordable that still feels trendy and well put together. Rooms typically start from around $150 USD per night, which we think is excellent value for money.

Another one of our favorite spots here, Mr Kahawa is a gorgeous, back-to-nature beachfront stay located right on Paje Beach with a laid-back vibe and a popular café. It’s a great spot if you want to be right by the water, and the staff are super friendly and welcoming. 

Beach Bohème is another stylish alternative set slightly back from the beach with a Robinson Crusoe feel. It offers simple apartments and bungalows, plus an amazing restaurant and cocktail bar on site, and it’s close to all of Paje’s best attractions.

Paje By Night Bungalows – $ 

Paje-By-Night-Bungalows-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania
Photo credit: Paje By Night Bungalows

Paje By Night Bungalows is a budget-friendly stay located just a short walk from the beach, offering great value in one of Zanzibar’s most popular areas. The property has a simple, laid-back feel with a colorful pool and a garden setting that makes it a comfortable place to unwind.

The rooms are basic but clean, and the location is a big plus, with easy access to Paje’s beach, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to keep costs down while still being right in the middle of the action. Prices here usually start from around $80 USD per night.

If Paje By Night Bungalows is unavailable, The Garten Living is another affordable option located close to the beach with a modern, minimalist design. It offers simple but stylish rooms and a calm atmosphere.

Summer Beach Paje is also a good alternative, set right by the beach with a more social vibe. It’s a great pick if you want to meet other travelers and stay close to the ocean.

Jambiani 

A dhow boat at sunset on a cruise from Zanzibar Tanzinia
This is a great place to experience some traditional dhow boat activities
Local Maasai people on the beach in Zanzibar Tanzinia (2)
We love the local vibe

BEST FOR A QUIET & LOCAL STAY

Pros

  • Peaceful beaches with fewer crowds
  • More authentic, local village atmosphere

Cons

  • Strong tides mean limited swimming at certain times
  • Fewer restaurants and nightlife options

Just south of Paje, Jambiani offers a quieter and more local experience, with long stretches of white-sand beach and far fewer crowds. This part of the island feels more traditional, with small fishing villages and seaweed farms lining the shore, giving you a glimpse into everyday life in Zanzibar.

The beach here is wide and beautiful, especially at low tide when dramatic sandbars appear and stretch far into the ocean. We loved taking long walks here, and we loved seeing locals tending to seaweed farms and heading out on traditional dhow boats. Activities tend to be slower-paced, with options like cycling through the village, reef walks, or boat trips along the coast.

Jambiani is best suited to travelers who want to switch off and experience a more authentic side of the island rather than a busy resort scene. While there are fewer restaurants and bars compared to Paje, you’ll still find a handful of great beachfront spots. With its peaceful setting and local charm, we think it makes an ideal base for a slower and more immersive stay.

Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel – $$$

Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzinia
Photo credit: Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel
Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzinia 1
Photo credit: Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel

Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel is a stylish beachfront stay set on a quiet stretch of Jambiani’s coastline, with bright white sand and gorgeous turquoise water. The hotel is spacious, with a swimming pool and plenty of areas to kick back and relax in the sun. 

The rooms are modern and comfortable, with a clean, boutique style that fits the laid-back setting. It’s a great option if you want a bit of luxury while still staying somewhere that feels personal and low-key rather than overly flashy. Rooms here typically start from around $300 USD per night.

If you like a quieter vibe away from the crowds, Savera Beach Houses is a beautiful beachfront option located in Jambiani with spacious villas and a more private, upscale feel. It’s a great choice if you’re traveling as a couple or in a small group and want extra space.

Mwezi Boutique Resort is another lovely alternative set right on the beach with a relaxed, boho-inspired design. It offers unique bungalows and a peaceful atmosphere that fits perfectly with Jambiani’s vibe.

Blue Oyster Hotel – $$

Blue Oyster Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzinia
Photo credit: Blue Oyster Hotel
Blue Oyster Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzinia 1
Photo credit: Blue Oyster Hotel

Blue Oyster Hotel is a well-rated beachfront stay in Jambiani, known for its friendly atmosphere and fantastic ocean views. The location is a big highlight, as guests enjoy direct access to the beach and plenty of space to enjoy the  incredible scenery.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the hotel has a relaxed, welcoming feel that keeps guests coming back. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, so it’s nice to come back and relax here after a day of exploring Jambiani. Rooms typically start from around $120 USD per night.

If Blue Oyster Hotel is fully booked, The Loop Beach Resort is a stylish beachfront option located nearby with a more modern design and great social spaces. It’s a good pick if you want something slightly more contemporary with a lively edge.

The Oasis Residence is another great alternative set just back from the beach with a quieter and more residential feel. It offers spacious rooms and a calm atmosphere that works well for longer stays.

Gadea Boutique Hotel – $ 

Gadea Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzinia
Photo credit: Gadea Boutique Hotel
Gadea Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzinia 1
Photo credit: Gadea Boutique Hotel

Gadea Boutique Hotel is a budget-friendly option in Jambiani that still manages to feel stylish and comfortable. It’s located a short walk from the beach, offering a quieter setting while still being close enough to enjoy the coastline.

The rooms are simple but well-designed, with a clean and modern feel that makes it a great value stay. There’s also a small pool and shared spaces where you can relax after a day out exploring. Prices here usually start from around $75 USD per night.

If Gadea Boutique Hotel is fully booked, Equalia Rose Hotel is another affordable option located in Jambiani with a simple setup and a welcoming atmosphere. It offers a small pool, beach access, and lots of swing chairs, which are perfect for those all-important Instagram shots!

Marea Boutique Hotel is another great alternative set close to the beach with a slightly more polished, contemporary feel. It offers comfy, spacious rooms with lots of natural light and a fantastic Italian restaurant on-site.

Related Read: Once you have your place to stay booked, check out our guide to the best activities in Zanzibar to check off your bucket list!

Matemwe 

Bailey-on-a-sandbar--Zanzibar-Tanzinia
Want those white sand beaches and a luxury stay? This is for you
Daniel-scuba-diving-in Zanzibar Tanzinia
One of the biggest draws is nearby Mnemba Atoll (the best spot to snorkel and dive on Zanzibar!)

BEST FOR LUXURY TRAVELERS

Pros

  • Quiet, uncrowded beaches with a more upscale feel
  • Close to Mnemba Atoll for some of the best snorkeling and diving

Cons

  • Strong tides limit swimming at certain times
  • Fewer restaurants and things to do outside of resorts

Matemwe sits on the northeast coast of Zanzibar and is known for its quiet beaches and more exclusive feel. Compared to busier areas like Nungwi or Paje, this part of the island feels much more low-key. There are no huge resorts here, but you’ve got some smaller properties spread out along the coastline, so we highly recommend this area if you’re looking for peace and quiet.

One of the biggest draws here is its proximity to Mnemba Atoll, which is widely considered the best spot for snorkeling and diving in Zanzibar. Most hotels can arrange boat trips out to the reef, which usually boasts excellent visibility for exploring the coral gardens and marine life.

The beach in Matemwe is long and uncrowded, making it perfect for walks, especially during low tide when the sand stretches far out into the ocean. Like much of the East Coast, the tidal range here is pretty large, so swimming isn’t always possible throughout the day. Still, we were happy to take the trade-off for peace and quiet after exploring some of the busier areas of the island!

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas – $$$

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas in Zanzibar Tanzania (1)
Photo credit: Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas in Zanzibar Tanzania (2)
Photo credit: Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is a beautiful boutique stay set right on Matemwe Beach, offering a more exclusive and intimate experience. The property is made up of individual beachfront bandas, which gives it a private, tucked-away feel that’s absolutely perfect if you’re seeking a secluded getaway. 

The villas and bungalows are spacious and well-designed, with natural materials and an airy, beachy feel. Plus, each one has its own private terrace for relaxing on, and the villas even boast their very own pools!

Beach bungalows typically start from around $300 USD per night, while villa prices begin at $625 USD. It’s also worth noting that there’s a 3-night minimum stay.

For a more polished, resort-style stay, Infinity Beach Boutique Hotel & SPA is a stylish beachfront option located in Matemwe with lovely ocean views. It offers a spa, pool, and a more resort-style experience.

Failing that, Sunshine Azure Zanzibar Beach Hotel is another gorgeous property set right by the beach with a bit of a wellness theme. It offers a slick infinity pool, as well as a hammam and sauna for guests to use, and daily yoga classes!  

Boutique Villa Unaweza – $$ 

Boutique Villa Unaweza in Zanzibar Tanzania
Photo credit: Boutique Villa Unaweza
Boutique Villa Unaweza in Zanzibar Tanzania 1
Photo credit: Boutique Villa Unaweza

Boutique Villa Unaweza is a peaceful and stylish stay set slightly back from the beach in Matemwe. This place has a boho-chic feel, with a calm atmosphere and a big emphasis on personalized service. Not bad at this price point if you ask me! 

The rooms are beautifully designed with a clean, modern aesthetic, and there’s a lovely pool area surrounded by greenery where you can unwind. It’s a great option if you want something quiet and comfortable, while still being close enough to the beach and local boat trips. Rooms typically start from around $180 USD per night.

If Boutique Villa Unaweza is fully booked, Zoi Retreat Hotel Zanzibar is a lovely boutique option located in Matemwe with its own private beach area. It offers tropical gardens, and you can choose to include both breakfast and dinner for extra ease.

Or if you’d prefer something with a few more activities on offer, Marafiki Beach Hotel & SPA is a great alternative. It’s set on the beach and offers lots of fun things for guests to do, including cooking classes and village excursions, but there’s also a relaxing spa on site for when you need some downtime.

Zanzibar Bahari Villas – $

Zanzibar Bahari Villas in Zanzibar Tanzinia
Photo credit: Zanzibar Bahari Villas
Zanzibar Bahari Villas in Zanzibar Tanzinia 1
Photo credit: Zanzibar Bahari Villas

Zanzibar Bahari Villas is a budget-friendly beachfront stay in Matemwe, and we think it offers fantastic value for money. The property sits right by the ocean, with simple villas and rooms surrounded by tropical gardens. The rooms are basic but comfortable, and the warm and friendly service still makes this stay feel special.

It’s a solid choice if you want to stay in this quieter part of the island without spending too much, while still having direct access to the beach. Prices here usually start from around $80 USD per night, including breakfast.

If Zanzibar Bahari Villas is fully booked, Salama & Mbuyuni Bungalows is another affordable option located right on the beach in Matemwe with a simple, laid-back setup. It’s a great choice for a no-frills stay in a beautiful location.

Top Activities to do in Zanzibar

Bailey-and-Daniel-on-ATV-during-a-tour-in-Zanzibar Tanzinia
ATV tours are so much fun!
Jozani Forest and a red colobus monkey in Zanzibar Tanzinia
A red colobus monkey in Jozani Forest

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and hotel, it’s time to start planning your itinerary! While Zanzibar’s beaches are hard to leave, there’s so much more to experience beyond the shoreline. These are the activities we wouldn’t skip!

  • Take a Zanzibar highlights tour This Zanzibar highlights tour is hands down the best way to see a little bit of everything in one day. From wandering Stone Town’s historic streets to visiting a spice farm and tasting fresh local flavors, it gives you a real feel for the island.
  • Go dolphin spotting at Mnemba Island – Heading out early made this dolphin tour feel extra special, with calm waters and incredible shades of blue all around. Jumping in to catch a glimpse of the dolphins was fast-paced and exciting, and afterward, we loved slowing things down with relaxed snorkeling and a beach BBQ.
  • Skydive over Zanzibar – For a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, this Zanzibar skydive delivers. Free-falling over bright turquoise water and white sand beaches is unforgettable, and landing right on Kendwa Beach makes it even better. It’s definitely a splurge, but the setting takes this experience to another level.
  • Explore the island on an ATV tourThis ATV tour is such a fun way to see a different side of Zanzibar beyond the resorts. Riding through villages, coastal paths, and quiet backroads adds a cultural layer you don’t get from typical tours. It’s a bit dusty and adventurous, but that’s all part of the experience.
  • Visit Jozani Forest and Kuza Cave This forest and cave tour is perfect if you want something more active and varied, with highlights like spotting rare red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest and swimming in Kuza Cave. Stops at Paje Beach and The Rock Restaurant add even more variety to an already packed day.

AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”

What’s an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.

In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.

💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:

Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-in-Zanzibar Tazmania
Thanks for reading!

Planning a trip to Zanzibar can feel overwhelming at first, but once you choose the right area, everything else falls into place. Whether you want lively beaches in Nungwi, culture in Stone Town, or a quieter escape in Jambiani or Matemwe, each spot offers something different. Just don’t leave booking too late—the best hotels fill up fast, especially in peak season.

If you’re still planning out your trip, we’ve got plenty more Africa travel guides here to help you make the most of your time here. Or check out some of our other favorites below for more inspiration!

How to Spend SEVEN to TEN DAYS in Egypt: The Best 7 to 10-Day Itinerary

The 10 Best Riads in Fes, Morocco

Where to Stay in Fes: 2 Best Areas & Hotels