Most people only associate crystal clear waters and white sand beaches with islands in the Caribbean. Not many people are aware of the incredible islands on the coast of Africa near the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar is one of the most breathtaking islands in Africa. It is a 30-minute boat ride from Dar-es-Salaam, the capital city of Tanzania.
This little island has clear turquoise water, white sand beaches, and lots of luxurious resorts for guests to stay in. Staying on this island feels like living in a literal paradise, and it is a must-have for any travel bucket list. Zanzibar is home to some of the best resorts in the world, and here is a list of the top 10 that everyone should know about.
10 The Island - Pongwe Lodge
The best way to get here is by boat; this resort is perfect for travelers looking for a remote, secluded getaway. The Island Resort is located in Pongwe Bay, which is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Guests who stay here can have a full 360 ocean view that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. The Island offers guests a private beach where they can enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar and go boating and snorkeling. This is an excellent resort for people that love exclusivity and yearn for a true getaway.
- Accommodation: The Island - Pongwe Lodge
- Address: Pongwe, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Amenities: Airport shuttle, free breakfast, private beach
9 Tulia Zanzibar
Tulia Zanzibar Resort is considered the best of the best and has the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice award for 2022. This luxurious hotel has a stunning outdoor pool and a beautifully designed lounge area that is great for people who love to sunbathe and chill out by the pool. It also has a world-class restaurant that serves very delicious food that travelers from around the world have raved about. Guests have access to an incredible spa and yoga classes to add to the many perks of staying here.
- Accommodation: Tulia Zanzibar
- Address: Zanzibar, Pongwe, Tanzania
- Amenities: Free breakfast, yoga classes, spa
8 Zuri Zanzibar
Zuri Zanzibar is right by the beach in Unguja; the beach is a stone's throw away from the resort and has the most tranquil atmosphere. The word "paradise" and Zuri Zanzibar go hand-in-hand. The entire resort is designed to create a tranquil environment where guests can fully bask in the beauty of Zanzibar. It's a truly stunning property and is an ideal location for Instagram-worthy photo shoots. Guests can enjoy the many features that this resort offers, including the infinity pool, hot tubs, and spa.
- Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
- Address: Kendwa Zanzibar TZ, 73107, Tanzania
- Amenities: Infinity pool, hot tub, free breakfast, spa, water sports
7 Bamboo Zanzibar - Design Hotel
Bamboo Zanzibar is one of those places that looks incredible in photos and looks breathtaking in person. Take a look at the pictures, and then imagine that it looks even better in person. The pictures don't do this place justice. The infinity pool is right by the restaurant and poolside bar; it's a great place to eat and be overwhelmed by the beauty of the pool and the Indian Ocean. It is one of those resorts that can leave anyone absolutely speechless because of its sheer magnificence and beauty. Guests spend most of their time lounging by the infinity pool and enjoying the sunset. Bamboo Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful resorts in Zanzibar.
- Accommodation: Bamboo Zanzibar - Design Hotel
- Address: Mfumbwi Jambiani, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Amenities: Free breakfast, infinity pool, fitness classes, poolside bar, spa
6 The Residence Zanzibar
The Residence Zanzibar is a family-friendly resort that has cool features that make traveling with children so much easier. There is a kids' club with a playroom and lots of toys for children to enjoy. There are also babysitting services available for parents who want to get a break from their kids and relax at the poolside bar. The resort has lots of family-friendly activities that adults and children can enjoy together, and this makes The Residence Zanzibar an ideal place for families to stay. Most of the other resorts in Zanzibar are adult-only or are not very favorable for families with kids.
- Accommodation: The Residence Zanzibar
- Address: Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Amenities: Poolside bar, infinity pool, spa, fitness classes, free breakfast
5 The Zanzibari
The Zanzibari has some of the best ocean views because of its perfect location. Even the pool has a great view, and guests love the way the resort is designed to accentuate the beauty of Zanzibar. Guests can enjoy participating in water sports like snorkeling and other activities around the area. This resort is also quite family-friendly, with babysitting, kids' activities, and highchairs available for young children.
- Accommodation: The Zanzibari
- Address: 33 Nungwi Road Nungwi, Zanzibar
- Amenities: Bar/lounge, spa, pool with a view, snorkeling
4 DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Zanzibar
DoubleTree by Hilton has a great reputation for having excellent service and giving guests luxurious hotel experiences. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar is no exception. It is listed as a TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice for 2022 for its wonderful facilities and high ratings from previous guests. People who stay here have full access to the fitness enter, rooftop bar, banquet room, and other business facilities. This hotel is great for business travelers since it has meeting rooms, and the hotel doesn't solely cater to vacationers.
- Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar
- Address: Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Amenities: Breakfast buffet, fitness center, bar/lounge, rooftop bar
3 Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Park Hyatt Zanzibar is located in Stone Town and is close to most of the tourist attractions in the area. The suites have stunning ocean views and have great room service. Guests can enjoy swimming in the infinity pool, relaxing in the spa, and working out in the fitness center. This hotel is excellent for travelers who want to explore Stone Town and have a comfortable hotel to go home to when it's time to unwind.
- Accommodation: Park Hyatt Zanzibar
- Address: TZ, Shangani St, 4255, Tanzania
- Amenities: Infinity pool, free breakfast, spa, fitness center, airport shuttle
2 Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Zanzibar Serena is a family-friendly hotel located in the heart of Stone Town, not far from tourist attractions like the House of Wonders and Mercury House. It is surrounded by world-class restaurants with seafood that is worth writing home about. The hotel offers airport transportation for all guests who need it and a delicious breakfast buffet as well.
- Accommodation: Zanzibar Serena Hotel
- Address: Shangani St, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Amenities: Breakfast buffet, spa, outdoor pool, airport shuttle
1 Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
This is an incredibly romantic spot for couples to have their weddings, spend their honeymoon, and create lasting memories together. Gold Zanzibar Beach House is right by the beach and has a very romantic, tranquil atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the poolside bar on the private pavilion as they bask in the beauty of Zanzibar. This is one of the few pet-friendly resorts in the area, and babysitting services for families traveling with children as well.
- Accommodation: Gold Zanzibar Beach House
- Address: Zanzibar Kendwa Beach, Nungwi
- Amenities: Hot tub, poolside bar, spa, breakfast buffet