Best Hotels in Zanzibar makes an opinion for you and your friend circle to make your journey very special, Zanzibar, the crown jewel of Tanzania’s coastline, is a stunning archipelago that has become one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations. Famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant Swahili culture, this tropical paradise offers a blend of luxury and authenticity you won’t find elsewhere. Whether you crave a romantic escape, an all-inclusive resort, or a boutique seaside hideaway, Zanzibar’s hotels promise unforgettable experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Zanzibar offers diverse accommodation options, from eco‑resorts to ultra‑luxury suites.
- Stone Town remains the cultural heart, ideal for heritage travelers.
- The island’s northern and eastern coasts deliver world‑class beach resorts.
- Many Zanzibar hotels focus on sustainability and community-based tourism.
- Booking early saves money, especially during December–February peak season.
A Tropical Haven Reimagined
Zanzibar’s hospitality scene has evolved beyond traditional beach lodges, embracing global trends in eco‑luxury and authentic cultural immersion. 2025 introduces a refined selection of resorts that marry modern comfort with island heritage. From sunset-facing villas in Nungwi to coral-front spas in Michamvi, the latest hotel listings showcase innovation, privacy, and wellness tourism on a new level.
Top 10+ Best Hotels in Zanzibar, Quick overview and plan your memorable trips
| Hotel Name | Short Description | Website URL |
|---|---|---|
| The Residence Zanzibar | Luxury resort set among tropical gardens, offering privacy and beachfront villas. | https://www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/zanzibar |
| Baraza Resort & Spa Zanzibar | Elegant, all-inclusive 5-star resort styled with Arabic and Swahili architecture. | https://www.baraza-zanzibar.com |
| Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa | Chic beachfront hotel with holistic spa, fine dining, and stunning ocean views. | https://www.goldzanzibar.com |
| Park Hyatt Zanzibar | Seafront luxury hotel combining heritage design with contemporary comfort. | https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/tanzania/park-hyatt-zanzibar/znzph |
| Kilindi Zanzibar | Boutique hotel with unique pavilion suites and lush gardens overlooking the ocean. | https://www.kilindizanzibar.com |
| TUI BLUE Bahari Zanzibar | Among the Best Hotels in Zanzibar All-inclusive beachfront resort, famous for its great dining and family amenities. | https://www.tui-blue.com/en/en/hotels/tui-blue-bahari-zanzibar.html |
| Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar | Upscale adults-only resort with infinity pool, private butler service. | https://www.riu.com/en/hotel/africa-tanzania-zanzibar/riu-palace-zanzibar |
| Breezes Beach Club & Spa | Popular luxury resort for couples and families, renowned for Swahili architecture. | https://www.breezes-zanzibar.com |
| Zuri Zanzibar | Eco-conscious luxury hotel offering bungalows and tropical gardens on Kendwa Beach | https://www.zurizanzibar.com |
| Dream of Zanzibar Resort | Boutique-style luxury resort on Uroa’s endless white sands with stylish suites. | https://www.dreamofzanzibar.com |
Each hotel listed above is among the best-reviewed and offers a unique luxury experience on the island.
The Rise of Eco‑Luxury in Zanzibar
Travelers today seek Best Hotels in Zanzibar and experiences that preserve the environment and support local communities. Zanzibar’s eco-hotels have stepped up, integrating solar energy, rainwater harvesting, plastic-free amenities, and farm-to-table cuisine.
Top examples include:
- Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa) – Offers bungalows surrounded by tropical gardens and a private beach with incredible sunsets.
- The Palms Zanzibar (Bwejuu) – Renowned for its intimate setup with only six villas, personalized service, and sustainable design.
- Chumbe Island Coral Park – An award-winning eco-lodge and marine sanctuary, ideal for snorkeling and responsible travel enthusiasts.
These eco-retreats not only protect the archipelago’s delicate ecosystem but also immerse guests in the authentic rhythm of island life.
North Coast Luxury: Nungwi and Kendwa
The north of Zanzibar is famous for its white sands, calm waters, and dynamic nightlife. Nungwi and Kendwa beaches host several of Zanzibar’s top-tier resorts where relaxation blends seamlessly with exotic adventure.
Highly recommended properties include:
- Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa – An ocean-view resort offering chic beachfront suites, holistic spa treatments, and fine dining under the stars.
- Riu Palace Zanzibar – An all‑inclusive adults-only resort known for its infinity pool, private butler service, and world‑class gastronomy.
- Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort – Perfect for families, with multiple swimming pools, diving centers, and family-friendly entertainment.
If you want to witness magical sunsets accompanied by cool cocktails, this part of Zanzibar delivers pure indulgence.
East Coast Serenity: Paje, Bwejuu, and Michamvi
The eastern side of Zanzibar offers serenity, kite-surfing adventures, and pristine coral reefs. This is one of the Best Hotels in Zanzibar and the tidal rhythm here reveals long sandbars, creating stunning landscapes unlike anywhere else.
Top stays include:
- The Residence Zanzibar (Kizimkazi) – An elegant retreat featuring private villas with plunge pools, exceptional service, and gourmet restaurants.
- Breezes Beach Club & Spa – Known for world-class diving, a luxury spa, and Swahili-inspired architecture.
- Matemwe Lodge – Overlooking an exquisite coral lagoon, ideal for divers visiting the Mnemba Atoll.
These hotels appeal to honeymooners and wellness travelers seeking peaceful escapes enveloped in palm-lined seclusion.
Stone Town’s Historic Charm
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town offers a charming blend of Arabian, Indian, and African influences. Staying within this cultural labyrinth allows visitors to experience the island’s soul through narrow alleyways, spice markets, and oceanfront balconies.
Top historic accommodations:
- Park Hyatt Zanzibar – An architectural masterpiece combining heritage design and modern comfort, located right on the seafront.
- Emerson Spice Hotel – A boutique gem with individually styled rooms reflecting Zanzibar’s colonial and Arabic past.
- Maru Maru Hotel – Centrally located with a rooftop bar overlooking the Indian Ocean and Stone Town rooftops.
Guests here enjoy proximity to night markets, museums, and historic fortresses that tell centuries-old tales of trade and exploration.
For Adventure and Romance Seekers
Beyond comfort and style, Zanzibar’s best hotels design experiences that create lifelong memories. Romantic dinners on the beach, spice plantation tours, dolphin watching, and dhow cruises at sunset redefine tropical perfection.
Hotels offering exceptional experiences:
- Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort – Known for providing complimentary activities like biking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling gear.
- Sea Cliff Resort & Spa – Offers equestrian rides along the shore, golf courses, and sunset catamaran cruises.
- Baraza Resort & Spa – An opulent five-star resort blending Swahili, Indian, and Arabic décor, known for its royal hospitality.
These venues embody the spirit of Zanzibar’s romantic escapism and barefoot luxury.
Zanzibar’s Culinary Evolution
A new generation of chefs and restaurateurs has elevated the island’s culinary profile. Expect farm-sourced ingredients, freshly caught seafood, and an infusion of international cuisines.
Hotels redefining dining culture:
- The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar – Perched dramatically on a coral outcrop, accessible by foot or boat depending on the tide.
- Upendo Beach Zanzibar – Combines gourmet dining, live music, and unfiltered ocean views for unforgettable evenings.
- TUI Blue Bahari Zanzibar – Offers themed global buffets, beachside grills, and elegant fine-dining experiences.
Food lovers will savor the fusion of Swahili spices with Mediterranean flair across these iconic establishments.
The Future of Hospitality in Zanzibar
As Zanzibar continues investing in tourism infrastructure and sustainable development, 2025 marks a turning point in eco-innovation and boutique hospitality. New resorts integrate advanced water conservation technologies, employ local artisans, and maintain coral health through marine partnerships.
Government incentives also encourage international brands to expand responsibly, ensuring tourism enriches both travelers and local communities. With improved flight connectivity and digital nomad visas on the horizon, Zanzibar’s hospitality sector is set for exponential growth.
Planning Your Zanzibar Best Hotels in Zanzibar to Stay
Before booking, consider:
- Travel seasons: High season (Dec–Feb, Jun–Oct) offers perfect weather; low season (Mar–May) brings discounts.
- Accessibility: Zanzibar International Airport connects via major hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Nairobi.
- Budget range: Mid-range hotels ($100–250), luxury stays ($300–1000+ per night).
- Activities: Diving at Mnemba Atoll, visiting Jozani Forest, and exploring spice farms.
- Safety: The island is traveler-friendly with health advisories easily managed through local guidance.
Choosing a hotel largely depends on your travel style—beachfront relaxation, cultural immersion, or adventure-filled exploration.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Zanzibar for beach holidays?
The best months are June to October and December to February when the weather is dry, sunny, and ideal for swimming.
Which area of Zanzibar has the most luxury resorts?
Nungwi and Kendwa on the north coast feature are among the Best Hotels in Zanzibar the highest number of luxury beachfront resorts with modern amenities and spectacular sunsets.
Are Zanzibar hotels safe for solo and female travelers?
Yes. Most hotels ensure guest safety with 24-hour security and respectful local hospitality. Solo travelers can explore comfortably.
Do Zanzibar hotels offer snorkeling and dive packages?
Many beachfront resorts partner with PADI-certified diving centers to offer guided snorkeling and scuba diving near coral reefs.
How far is Stone Town from the main beach resorts?
Stone Town is about 45–60 minutes by car from top beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje, depending on traffic and route.
