Friends, picture waking to turquoise waves lapping powder‑white sands and evenings scented with clove breeze. Zanzibar's coastline unfolds from lively beaches to secret coves, each offering its own flavour of paradise.
With its enchanting beaches and rich culture, selecting the perfect place to stay is essential for maximizing enjoyment. Explore these vibrant regions to find the ideal spot for a memorable holiday.
Steps
1. Book Flights to Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ) via Dar es Salaam ($180–$220 one‑way).
2. Arrange Transfer—hotel shuttles run $10–$15; taxis $15 flat rate into Stone Town.
3. Reserve Accommodation early—peak season (June–October) commands 45‑day lead times.
4. Plan Itinerary: allocate 3 nights in Stone Town, 2 in Kendwa/Nungwi, 2 in Matemwe/Bwejuu.
5. Hire Transport—scooter rentals at $30/day or private car hire from $40/day.
6. Book Activities at least 48 hours ahead: spice tours ($20), dhow cruise ($35), diving ($100–$120).
7. Check‑In/Out policies: standard check‑in at 2 PM, check‑out at 11 AM; luggage storage often complimentary.
North Coast
Kendwa and Nungwi dazzle with broad swathes of white sand and calm, deep blue waters. Kendwa Rocks Hotel offers beachfront bungalows from $120 per night, while DoubleTree by Hilton Nungwi features sea‑view suites starting at $160. Beach light up after sunset, and family‑friendly villas run $80 for shared rooms. Nightly rates include breakfast buffets and complimentary sunset sessions.
Nungwi Eats
Dining on Nungwi Beach is a feast of fresh seafood and island‑style grills. Flame Tree Restaurant serves lobster platters for $25 and vegetarian curries at $12, all under twinkling frangipani trees. Casual eats like samosas and sugarcane juice can be found at roadside stalls for $1–$3.
Matemwe Calm
On the northeast shore, Matemwe's tranquil beaches host boutique retreats. Matemwe Retreat features ocean‑facing villas from $130 per night, complete with private verandas. Spice Island Beach Resort sits a short walk away, offering deluxe rooms at $220 with snorkeling gear included. Early‑morning dives to Mnemba Atoll cost $35 for snorkeling or $120 for certified two‑tank scuba trips.
Bwejuu Charm
Bwejuu's laid‑back vibe and proximity to Jozani Forest make it a serene escape. Bellevue Guest House offers garden bungalows from $75/night, lush hammocks, and a freshwater pool. Interactive cooking lessons—learn to spice fish curry—run $25 per person (3 h session). On‑site restaurant dishes sell for $10–$18, and non‑guests are welcome, underscoring its local reputation.
The Rock
Dining at The Rock requires advance booking—reserve 24 hours ahead for boat pickup ($20 round‑trip from Michamvi). The fixed‑menu lunch or dinner costs $75 per person and features grilled tuna, octopus carpaccio, and tropical fruit desserts. Meals include bottled water; sunset seating enhances the dramatic cliff‑top ambience.
Stone Town
Stone Town's coral stone buildings frame winding alleys and hidden courtyards. Emerson on Hurumzi offers Swahili‑style suites from $140/night, complete with rooftop tea‑time and guided history walks. Zanzibar Coffee House Hotel provides modern rooms at $100 and a café known for cardamom lattes ($4). Museums and markets lie within 10 minutes' stroll.
Transport
Getting around Zanzibar blends convenience and adventure. Airport shuttles cost $10, taxis from the airport to Stone Town run $15 flat. Scooter rentals at $30/day grant freedom for beach‑hop circuits. Private car hires begin at $40/day, including driver and petrol. Ferries to Pemba Island depart from Stone Town at 8 AM and 3 PM ($65 round‑trip).
Best Season
June through October brings dry skies, 28–32°C temperatures, and calm seas—perfect for beach days and water sports. November's short rains clear dust and coax blooms from clove trees, while December to February is slightly hotter (up to 34°C) but rewards with vibrant festivals and Tam tam beach parties.
Conclusion
Friends, Zanzibar's tapestry of seascapes, spices, and storied streets awaits exploration. Use these detailed steps, exact costs, and curated stays to craft an island escape that exceeds every expectation. Whether dawn finds footsteps in soft sand or sunset paints The Rock in gold, each moment promises to become a cherished memory. Ready to book the perfect beachfront hideaway?
