Zanzibar's accommodation scene spans everything from ultra-luxury private villas with infinity pools overlooking the Indian Ocean to atmospheric boutique guesthouses in Stone Town's ancient coral stone buildings and backpacker-friendly hostels steps from the beach. The island's main choices are between staying in Stone Town for culture and history, on the north coast (Nungwi/Kendwa) for the liveliest beach scene, on the east coast (Paje/Jambiani) for a quieter, more local experience, or on the southeast (Bwejuu) for isolation and luxury resorts.
Zanzibar's accommodation scene spans everything from ultra-luxury private villas with infinity pools overlooking the Indian Ocean to atmospheric boutique guesthouses in Stone Town's ancient coral stone buildings and backpacker-friendly hostels steps from the beach. The island's main choices are between staying in Stone Town for culture and history, on the north coast (Nungwi/Kendwa) for the liveliest beach scene, on the east coast (Paje/Jambiani) for a quieter, more local experience, or on the southeast (Bwejuu) for isolation and luxury resorts. Many visitors split their time between Stone Town and a beach resort.
Best Areas to Stay
Stone Town is the choice for those who want to explore the UNESCO-listed old city, visit markets and museums, and eat at the famous Forodhani Night Market. Boutique hotels in converted merchant houses offer enormous character at a range of prices. Nungwi on the northern tip has the most consistent beach — deep water even at low tide — and the most active nightlife and dining scene. Kendwa, just south of Nungwi, is slightly quieter with beautiful sunsets. Paje on the east coast is the kitesurfing capital with a young, international crowd. Jambiani further south is genuinely local and laid-back — the most authentic community feel on the island.
Luxury Stays
The Residence Zanzibar on the southwest coast is one of Africa's finest luxury beach resorts — private villas with personal butler service, a stunning infinity pool and a beautiful private beach. Zuri Zanzibar near Kendwa offers contemporary design in a stunning natural setting with an eco-conscious ethos. Baraza Resort & Spa at Bwejuu combines Arabian-influenced architecture with impeccable service and one of the island's best spas. For Stone Town luxury, the restored Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Emerson Spice with its legendary rooftop restaurant are the top choices.
Mid-Range Options
Meliá Zanzibar near Kendwa is a reliable all-inclusive option with consistent quality. Diamonds Mapenzi Beach at Pwani Mchangani is a popular mid-range all-inclusive with a lovely beach position. The BlueBay Beach Resort near Matemwe offers good value with proximity to Mnemba Atoll for snorkelling. In Stone Town, the Park Hyatt Zanzibar blends seamlessly into the historic waterfront and delivers international standards.
Budget Accommodation
Stone Town's backstreets are lined with affordable guesthouses in converted historic buildings — the Malindi Guesthouse and Karibu Inn offer clean rooms for very reasonable prices. At the beaches, budget bandas (simple thatched huts) and backpacker-style hostels are found at Paje and Nungwi. Simple self-catering cottages in Jambiani's fishing village offer some of the island's most authentic and affordable experiences.
Booking Tips
Peak season (June–October) and Christmas/New Year require advance booking of several months for luxury properties. Low season (April–May) sees discounts of 30–50% — a good option for budget-conscious travellers who don't mind the possibility of rain. Check whether your east-coast property has a pool: low-tide conditions can leave the beach far from the water. All-inclusive packages are popular in Zanzibar and can represent excellent value when dining costs are factored in.