Where to Stay in Zanzibar

Best Areas & Places for Every Kind of Traveler

Zanzibar offers everything from luxury resorts to budget hostels ,whether you’re looking for white-sand beaches, exciting nightlife, cultural experiences, or quiet relaxation. Where you stay in Zanzibar can completely shape your trip, so it’s important to pick the right area based on your travel style.

Here’s a guide to the best places to stay in Zanzibar, plus the top areas for couples, families, backpackers, and honeymooners.

Nungwi -Best for Beaches, Swimming & Nightlife

Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi is one of the most popular areas to stay ,and for good reason.

Why stay in Nungwi:

• Stunning white-sand beaches
• Calm water for swimming year-round (no big tides)
• Great for sunset views
• Lively beach bars, cafes, and activities
• Wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury

Best for: First-time visitors, couples, groups, partygoers, swimmers

Popular hotels:

• Zuri Zanzibar (luxury)
• The Z Hotel (mid-range)
• Warere Beach (budget)

Kendwa : Quiet but Close to the Action

Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa offers the same beautiful beach and swimmable water  but with a more peaceful atmosphere.

Why stay in Kendwa:

• Less crowded than Nungwi
• Swimmable beach at all tides
• Still close enough to nightlife
• Home to the famous Full Moon Party (once a month)

Best for: Honeymooners, couples, solo travelers, peaceful beach days

Popular hotels:

• Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
• Kendwa Rocks
• Sunset Kendwa

Paje- Best for Kitesurfing & Backpackers

On the southeast coast, Paje is a chilled-out beach village known for its water sports and relaxed backpacker vibe.

Why stay in Paje:

• One of the best kitesurfing spots in Africa
• Great for social travelers
• Budget-friendly hostels and beach bars
• Tide goes out far, creating wide beach space

Best for: Backpackers, digital nomads, water sports lovers

Popular stays:

• Drifters Backpackers (budget)
• The Nest (mid-range)
• Dhow Inn (stylish boutique option)

Jambiani -Peaceful & Authentic Zanzibar

Right next to Paje but even more relaxed, Jambiani is ideal for travelers who want a quiet escape in a local village setting.

Why stay in Jambiani:

• Very peaceful and scenic
• Friendly local vibe
• Affordable guesthouses and small hotels
• Good for long stays or romantic getaways

Best for: Couples, slow travelers, off-the-beaten-path seekers

Popular places:

• Blue Moon Resort
• Sharazād Boutique Hotel
• Coral Rocks Hotel

Stone Town -Best for Culture & History

If you want to explore Zanzibar’s rich culture and past, Stone Town is the place to stay. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s historical heart.

Why stay in Stone Town:

• Close to the airport and ferry
• Walking distance to museums, markets, and restaurants
• Great for 1–2 nights before heading to the beach
• Best base for spice tours or Prison Island visits

Best for: Culture lovers, short stays, solo travelers, city explorers

Popular stays:

• Emerson Spice Hotel (charming and historic)
• Maru Maru Hotel (mid-range with rooftop views)
• Lost & Found Hostel (budget-friendly)

Matemwe -Best for Seclusion & Snorkeling

Located on the northeast coast, Matemwe is quiet, scenic, and close to Mnemba Atoll, one of Zanzibar’s best snorkeling and diving spots.

Why stay in Matemwe:

• Peaceful and less developed
• Excellent for snorkeling/diving day trips
• Fewer tourists, more nature
• Boutique-style lodges and villas

Best for: Honeymooners, divers, peaceful getaways

Top choices:

• Matemwe Retreat
• Villa Kiva
• Zanzibar Queen Hotel

Best Places to Stay by Travel Type

• Book early during high season (June–Oct & Dec–Feb)
• Check tide schedules : beaches on the east coast may not be swimmable at low tide
• Read reviews for security, service, and cleanliness
• Some remote resorts offer all-inclusive packages if you’re looking to relax completely