Zanzibar is one of the most memorable location names in the world. Whether traveling alone or in conjunction with a safari on Tanzania’s mainland, this seductive island in the Indian Ocean is also a great place to relax on a tropical beach.

The biggest attraction for many is the beautiful beaches. Additional attractions include coastal forests teeming with birds and monkeys, as well as multicolored coral reefs that provide excellent diving and snorkeling conditions.

Then there is historic Stone Town, an old Swahili marketplace with buildings displaying a blend of British, Indian, Arabian, and African architectural styles lining its winding alleys. Without a trip to Zanzibar, no Tanzanian safari would be complete. Here, we tour ten of the best hotels and beach resorts in Zanzibar.

There is no set order of quality for the hotels listed below.

1. Tembo House Apartments & Hotel

Tembo House is a historic building that was first used as the American Consulate in 1834. In 1930, Mahatma Gandhi stopped there on his way from South Africa to India. This charming hotel is perfect for sun worshippers because it has a swimming pool and a seaside location.

However, Tembo House is also a good place to explore the maze-like passageways of the historic Stone Town in Zanzibar. In addition to traditional Swahili four-poster beds and hammam baths, the period-style guest rooms also come equipped with satellite TV, air conditioning, and other contemporary amenities.

Two-bedroom flats in Freddie Mercury House, where the former Queen singer spent a portion of his early years, are also for sale. One of the greatest accommodations in the town of Zanzibar.

2. Hotel Z

Situated in a prominent location on Nungwi Beach, the trendiest hotel in Zanzibar. This boutique hotel exudes a contemporary and artistic vibe. Philippe Starck furniture and lighting complement the minimalist building, which is influenced by modern London.

However, you are firmly placed in Zanzibar by the palm-shaded grounds that lead down to a stunning tropical beach and natural stone pool. Foodies must try the Z’s appropriately titled Sexy Fish restaurant’s Afro-European fusion fare.

3. Hotel Maru Maru

Visit Maru Maru, which is located in the center of Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town. Situated in a bustling alley near the 17th-century Arab Fort and the 19th-century House of Wonders, this contemporary multistory hotel boasts a historic setting. The Terrace Restaurant on the rooftop is our favorite feature of Maru Maru. In addition to sampling delicious Indian cuisine and taking in the breathtaking view of the old town, you can unwind with a cocktail by the pool here.

4. Zanzibar’s Meliá

Meliá Zanzibar, one of the most opulent beach resorts in Zanzibar, is the kind of place where you could unwind for a week without ever having to leave the grounds. When it comes to dining, you have an abundance of options, with five distinct eateries to choose from.

A fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and a top-notch spa are additional features. The 50-hectare garden, which stretches down to the exclusive Gabi Beach, is the best feature.

5. Turaco’s Nungwi Beach Resort

This establishment, which is a part of the global Marriott Bonvoy brand, provides all the amenities you would expect from a luxury beach resort in Zanzibar, located at the north end of Nungwi’s breathtaking main beach. Nevertheless, the resort has a distinct local identity.

Traditional Zanzibari décor is used in the rooms, which include flowing walk-in mosquito nets and four-poster beds in Swahili. Excellent seafood is served at the outdoor restaurant located directly over the beach. Indulge with a drink from the pool bar while paddling around the (really amazing) swimming pool if you’re feeling very opulent.

6. Bluebay Spa & Beach Resort

If you close your eyes and recite the phrase “Indian Ocean beach resort,” your mind will most likely create a picture that is not too far from Bluebay’s actual location. Bluebay is the perfect place to unwind by the sea with its expansive sandy beach, opulent thatched cottages, and grounds covered with a thousand palm trees. The fact that it is a recognized Green Globe 21 organization, committed to recycling, sustainable practices, and efficient use of water and energy, makes it even more amazing in our opinion.

7. Cottages with Flame Trees

I adore this little beachside resort’s home-away-from-home vibe. In the busy resort village of Nungwi, Flame Tree, owned and run by a beautiful Scottish couple from Zanzibar, feels like a haven of old-world peace. A well-kept garden with a swimming pool and a few enticing hammocks is surrounded by individually furnished cottages. Don’t miss the beachside eatery, which offers delicious seafood and is happy to accommodate vegans and those with special dietary needs.

8. Boutique Resort Mwezi

You know you’re in a unique place as soon as you walk inside Mwezi’s reception building, which is situated beneath twin makuti (coconut-palm thatching) roofs and is decorated with both modern local artwork and vintage photos of Zanzibar.

The bungalows, which are spaced out so that each one offers a picturesque view of Jambiani Beach across palm-shaded grounds, share a similar African design. Another resort with an eco-friendly philosophy is Mwezi, where all of the ingredients used in the restaurants come from nearby vendors and the infinity pool is supplied with salt water from a nearby well. Easily one of Zanzibar’s greatest lodging options.

9. Sunset Bay in Michamvi

One of the few resort hotels on the island with a westerly disposition that allows it to capture the sunset is this 20-room establishment on Chwaka Bay, as the name implies. It is also noteworthy for its family-friendly, active management style, which contrasts sharply with the larger resorts that predominate among Zanzibar’s upscale lodging options. If you’re seeking a beachside retreat with a non-institutional vibe and a strong dedication to neighborhood projects, this is a fantastic option.

10. Zanzibar’s Zuri

Set along the stunning stretch of beach that links the resort communities of Nungwi and Kendwa, Zuri Zanzibar is a modest luxury resort that’s a fantastic spot to escape the throng. Due to the abundant use of wood, canvas, thatch, and vibrant African artwork, the villas and bungalows at Zuri feel extremely organically modern. There is a beautiful pool and a private beach on the verdant tropical grounds.