Zanzibar has somewhere to stay for every style and budget.
Choosing where to stay in Zanzibar can feel overwhelming, because the island offers everything from barefoot-luxury beach resorts to characterful boutique hotels and budget-friendly guesthouses. This guide breaks down the types of accommodation and the different coasts, so you can pick the right base for your trip.
Understand the areas first
Each coast has a different character, so location shapes your whole stay.
Where you stay matters as much as what you stay in, because each part of the island has a different feel and different tides.
- North coast (Nungwi & Kendwa): lively, with swimmable water at all tides, sunsets, and plenty of restaurants. Great for first-timers and those who want life around them.
- East coast (Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Paje, Jambiani): classic postcard beaches, more relaxed and spread out, with stronger tides. Great for couples and water sports.
- Southeast (Bwejuu, Michamvi): quiet and exclusive, ideal for a peaceful escape.
- Stone Town: historic and cultural rather than beachy, perfect for a night or two at the start or end of a trip.
Our Zanzibar beach holiday guide goes deeper on matching a coast to your holiday.
Luxury resorts and villas
Zanzibar’s luxury end is world-class. Expect private beachfront villas, plunge pools, spas, gourmet dining, and impeccable service, often blending Swahili, Arabic, and Indian design. This is the choice for honeymoons, special occasions, or simply an indulgent escape. See our dedicated Zanzibar luxury beach guide for more.
Boutique hotels
Boutique hotels in Stone Town put you in the heart of the culture.
Boutique hotels offer character, personal service, and a real sense of place. Many occupy beautifully restored historic buildings in Stone Town, while others are small, stylish beach retreats. With just a handful of rooms, they deliver an intimate, individual experience that larger resorts can’t match.
Mid-range and family stays
Between luxury and budget sits a wide range of comfortable mid-range hotels and family-friendly resorts. These offer good facilities, pools, and beach access at sensible prices, often with family rooms and activities for children. They are a popular, dependable choice for most travellers.
Budget and guesthouse options
Zanzibar is also very welcoming to budget travellers. Guesthouses, small beach hotels, and simple lodges offer clean, comfortable rooms at low prices, letting you spend more on experiences than on your room. They are a great choice for independent travellers and anyone keeping a close eye on costs.
What accommodation costs
Prices vary widely by season, location, and standard. As a rough guide, budget guesthouses can start from around $30 a night, comfortable mid-range hotels sit in the $70 to $150 range, and luxury resorts run from a couple of hundred dollars upwards. Peak seasons and beachfront locations command higher rates, so booking ahead helps.
Let us match you to the right stay
As a local Zanzibar team, we know the island’s accommodation inside out and build it into your trip, so your stay, transfers, and excursions all work together seamlessly. Tell us your style and budget and we’ll recommend the perfect base. Explore our Zanzibar beach holidays, browse our excursions, or contact us to plan your trip.
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