Where to Stay in Zanzibar (2026): The Ultimate Guide

Things to consider when choosing where to stay in Zanzibar

In the next sections, I will dive into each main area of Zanzibar where you may consider staying.

However, depending on your traveling style and the goal of your trip, there are a few things to consider which may affect the area you choose to stay in:

Stone Town

Stone Town is a World Heritage Site and the oldest part of Zanzibar City, the main city of Zanzibar.

It is the main hub for visitors arriving via ferry from the mainland, and for those wanting to learn about Zanzibari history, street food and culture. The town is the closest to the island’s airport – it’s a good base for embarking on tours to sandbanks and spice farms, and for fly-in safaris to the mainland.

Pros:

• Stone Town is home to the Zanzibar Port, which connects the island with mainland Tanzania. This is particularly attractive if you are visiting Zanzibar as part of a safari trip. The ferry from Dar es Salaam (mainland Tanzania) to Zanzibar typically takes 1h20m, but the sailing duration may vary depending on the season.
  
  
  
• Stone Town is the closest town to Zanzibar Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport). This makes it a great option for spending a few days at the start or at the end of your trip to learn about Zanzibari culture and history. The drive from the airport to Stone Town is only about 15 minutes, and the price for a taxi should be between $15-$20 USD.
  
  
  
• As a lively harbour city, Stone Town has a wide offer of accommodations available for all budgets, as well as plenty of shops, museums, markets, and restaurants.
  
  
  
• There are good roads connecting Stone Town to popular beach areas all over Zanzibar, making it a good connecting point due to its location in the centre of the island. For this reason, many tours use Stone Town as a departing point.

Cons:

• As a small, bustling historical town, Stone Town’s liveliness may take some adjusting to for tourists unfamiliar with the local culture. Shopkeepers will do their best to lure you into their shops or stalls, and the winding streets can get quite busy. While being the best place in Zanzibar to get a feel for the Zanzibari culture and traditions, most people only stay in Stone Town for a couple of days before heading to the more relaxed beach areas.
  
  
  
• Being home to a population that’s predominantly Muslim, Stone Town is more conservative than the beach areas. As such, you should dress more conservatively and be mindful of the religious practices, especially if you visit during Ramadan. Read more about respecting the conservative norms in Zanzibar here.
  
  
  
• Stone Town, although home to a small but highly frequented beach, is not the best area for enjoying the beach. You will find the best beaches of Zanzibar in areas like Nungwi/Kendwa, Jambiani, or Paje.

Where to Stay in Stone Town:

While in Stone Town, I stayed at the Sharazād Wonders Boutique Hotel – a small and historical courtyard hotel with only a handful of rooms.

Despite being very centrally-located (only a few minutes’ walk from the night market and the beach), the private hotel courtyard filters out the noise from the streets and feels like a very intimate and relaxed hideaway.

The hotel also operates sustainably, providing free reusable water bottles and refillable toiletries, and there’s also an onsite boutique selling works and crafts from local Zanzibari artisans.

Jambiani

Jambiani is an extensive cluster of villages on the Southeastern coast of Zanzibar, known for its relaxed atmosphere and long stretches of white sand.

Similarly to Paje, Jambiani boasts great opportunities for kitesurfing, but it’s more laid-back and frequented by tourists looking to relax rather than by young backpackers looking to party.

Pros:

• Jambiani spans across 6km (about 4 miles) of beach, and it’s home to several beautiful boutique resorts. Because the area is much more relaxed than Paje or Nungwi, Jambiani is ideal for travellers looking to wind down in a more authentic setting.
  
  
  
• For culture-lovers and experience-seekers, Jambiani is the perfectly-located beach area for visiting Jozani Forest.
  
  
  
• If you’re an avid kitesurfer, or if you want to take your first lessons, the regular side shore winds in Jambiani make it a great choice for the sport. Given Jambiani’s tide shifts, beginners can practice during middle tide at one of the kitesurfing schools dotted along the coast.
  
  
  
• As Jambiani is less touched by commercial tourism, you will not be approached by as many sellers on the beach as you would in the north of the island.

Cons:

• If you’re a party lover, or looking to stay in a lively area, then Jambiani might be too quiet for you. For the party crowd, nearby Paje, or Kendwa in the north of the island, are much better choices.
  
  
  
• Just like in all of East Zanzibar, you get beautiful sunrises, but no sunset views. If seeing the sun set over the sea is a non-negotiable for you, you might enjoy staying in the North, West, or South of the island a lot more.
  
  
  
• As with all areas on the East coast of Zanzibar, Jambiani experiences tide shifts. While swimming is excellent at high tide, the sea recedes at low tide and it is often not possible to swim. Though, you’ll be able to walk on the beach and watch the locals pick up seaweed from the shore. Each day, there are two high tides and two low tides – the times are predictable and usually posted by the hotels for visitor’s knowledge.

Where to Stay in Jambiani:

While in Jambiani, I stayed at the Sharazād Boutique Hotel.

This hotel is not only beautiful and spread out for maximum relaxing opportunities, but also sustainable. At check-in, the hotel welcomed us with some of the tastiest and softest-flesh coconuts I’ve ever had, and they also grow their own fruit!

The hotel restaurant serves tasty food, and the staff are very friendly and accommodating. Apart from the four pools available, the resort is perched right on the beach, with direct access to the sea!

Paje

If you are looking for a lively beach area frequented by young backpackers and solo travellers, then Paje is the right choice for you.

Paje is a vibrant area for partying, and a renowned spot for kitesurfing, due to its great breezy conditions, shallow waters, and lack of sea urchins.

Pros:

• Paje is a vibrant area with plenty of restaurants and a full partying schedule both day and night. It attracts a young crowd of backpackers, solo travellers, and expats. While lively, Paje is less “touristy” and crowded than its counterpart on the Northern tip of the island, Nungwi.
  
  
  
• The breezy conditions in Paje make it the best place in Zanzibar for kitesurfing. As a kitesurfer’s paradise, the strong winds attract the sport’s lovers from June to August, and between December and February. On high wind season, you may see up to 300 kites out in the water per day!
  
  
  
• The beach in Paje is an extensive stretch of white sand, boasting plenty of boutique hotels and accommodations for all types of budgets. This is also one of the areas where you can spot locals walking their herds of cows on the beach!
  
  
  
• You will not be approached by as many sellers on the beach in Paje as you would in the north of the island. The northern part of Paje is also less frequented by beach sellers than its southern part.

Cons:

• Paje can be too lively for those seeking a more relaxing, off-grid holiday. If you’re not a fan of the party crowd, then its quieter neighbour, Jambiani, might be a better choice for you.
  
  
  
• Just like in all of East Zanzibar, you get beautiful sunrises in Paje, but no sunset views. If seeing the sun set over the sea is a non-negotiable for you, you might enjoy staying in the North, West, or South of the island a lot more.
  
  
  
• As with all areas on the East coast of Zanzibar, Paje experiences tide shifts. While swimming is excellent at high tide, the sea recedes at low tide and it is often not possible to swim. Each day, there are two high tides and two low tides – the times are predictable and usually posted by the hotels for visitor’s knowledge.
  
  
  
• With Paje being the kitesurfing capital of Zanzibar, the high wind seasons between June and August, and from December to February, observe the highest prices in the area. If you are not interested in kitesurfing, visiting Paje outside of these periods will certainly reduce your travel costs.

Where to Stay in Paje:

These are my recommendations for local hotels in Paje:

Kizimkazi

You’ll find the small fishing village of Kizimkazi (formally Kizimkazi Mkunguni) located on the far southern tip of Zanzibar. This is a secluded and relaxing area still unspoiled by commercial tourism.

Choosing to stay in Kizimkazi allows you to to escape reality and hide in the tranquil and authentic side of Zanzibar, surrounded by nothing but nature, sand and sea.

Pros:

• Kizimkazi is the ideal location in Zanzibar for travellers looking for seclusion and relaxation away from the tourist crowds. Still an under-the-radar part of the island, Kizimkazi is prized with pristine beaches and a local, authentic feel.
  
  
  
• Being in the Southern tip of the island, Kizimkazi benefits from something that the East coast of Zanzibar doesn’t – sunsets!
  
  
  
• This small village will surprise history-lovers, as it holds a very important historic gem. The Kizimkazi Dimbani Mosque is one of the oldest identified mosques on the East Coast of Africa, and still in use in Zanzibar.

Cons:

• Kizimkazi is the closest location to where dolphin tours are run. I list this as a negative point since many tour operators harm the wildlife during these activities. Dolphin tours are one of the most unethical activities in Zanzibar.
  
  
  
• Kizimkazi is not ideal for the travellers looking to party or craving a bustling location, as there’s not much to do, aside from relaxing. For those, a lively and cultural base like Stone Town, a young party village like Paje, or a mix of party and resorts like Nungwi and Kendwa are better options!
  
  
  
• Still an hidden gem in Zanzibar, Kizimkazi has a limited offer of hotels and accommodations. Having said this, there are some options available for various price points, from budget to luxury.

Where to Stay in Kizimkazi:

These are my recommendations for local and sustainable hotels in Kizimkazi:

Pingwe / Michamvi

The villages of Michamvi and Pingwe provide an extra layer of seclusion, while also being home to one of the island’s most popular attractions, the Rock Restaurant.

This area also boasts close access to the Blue Lagoon for snorkelling opportunities, and a sandbank, which is only revealed at low-tide.

Pros:

• Staying in Pingwe provides privileged access to the Rock Restaurant, one of Zanzibar’s most popular attractions. Aside from having a go at taking a boat up to the restaurant at high tide, you can also enjoy drinks and live music with a view over the Indian Ocean in the evenings.
  
  
  
• Pingwe Beach is also a prime location for going on a snorkelling tour to the Blue Lagoon, only a short boat ride away. The same tours will often also visit an area where you can spot many starfish – just remember that starfish cannot breathe out of the water, so avoid picking them up!
  
  
  
• You will not be approached by as many sellers on the beach in Pingwe as you would in the north of the island (and even less than you would in Jambiani or Paje).

Cons:

• As with all areas on the East coast of Zanzibar, Michamvi and Pingwe experience tide shifts. While swimming is excellent at high tide, the sea recedes at low tide and it is often not possible to swim, unless you walk far out. Each day, there are two high tides and two low tides – the times are predictable and usually posted by the hotels for visitor’s knowledge.
  
  
• In my experience, from all the beaches I visited in Zanzibar, I found Pingwe to be one of those which suffer most from rubbish washing up to shore. Although I had a lovely time here, I did find that it somewhat took away from the beauty of the area.
  
  
  
• If you’re a party lover, or looking to stay in a lively area, then Michamvi and Pingwe might be too quiet for you. For the party crowd, neighbouring Paje or Kendwa in the north of the island are much better choices.
  
  
  
• Just like in all of East Zanzibar, you get beautiful sunrises in Michamvi and Pingwe, but no sunset views. If seeing the sun set over the sea is a non-negotiable for you, you might enjoy staying in the North, West, or South of the island a lot more.

Where to Stay in Pingwe / Michamvi:

During my visit to Pingwe Beach, I stayed at Baladin Zanzibar.

Likely the prettiest hotel in Pingwe, Baladin is also one of Zanzibar’s most Instagrammable hotels. With only eight bungalows and a few additional rooms at the main house, my stay here felt very relaxed. There are also plenty of pool beds and beach chairs for guests to lounge on.

Matemwe

Matemwe is another location on the Eastern coast of Zanzibar which promises a calm atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Matemwe sets itself apart for being the best location for snorkelling at Mnemba Island and for taking diving classes and certifications.

Pros:

• Matemwe is the best location in Zanzibar for snorkellers and divers, and for those looking to get their diving certifications. This privileged position right opposite Mnemba Atoll is unmatched.
  
  
  
• Matemwe is the ideal location for travellers looking for a relaxed and laid-back experience away from the tourist crowds. The area is prized with powdery white sand beaches and a serene atmosphere.
  
  
  
• You won’t be approached by as many sellers on the beach in Matemwe as you would in the north of the island (and even less than you would in Jambiani or Paje).

Cons:

• As with all areas on the East coast of Zanzibar, Matemwe experiences tide shifts. While swimming is excellent at high tide, the sea recedes at low tide and it is often not possible to swim, unless you walk far out. Each day, there are two high tides and two low tides – the times are predictable and usually posted by the hotels for visitor’s knowledge.
  
  
  
• If you’re a party lover, or looking to stay in a lively area, then Matemwe might be too quiet for you. For the party crowd, staying in Paje or Kendwa are much better choices.
  
  
  
• Just like in all of East Zanzibar, you get beautiful sunrises in Matemwe, but no sunset views. If seeing the sun set over the sea is a non-negotiable for you, you might enjoy staying in the North, West, or South of the island a lot more.

Kendwa

Whenever I asked locals what part of the Zanzibar was best, Kendwa often came up as a favourite.

Without question, the northern tip of the island is Zanzibar’s most touristic area, and for good reason. With its long stretches of white sand and calm, clear turquoise waters without tidal shifts, Kendwa Beach is one of the island’s main touristic hotspots, where most people stay in Zanzibar.

Pros:

• Kendwa does not experience tide shifts, so it is possible to swim in the sea throughout the day. The water in Kendwa is also calm and clear, making the beach perfect for families travelling with young children.
  
  
  
• Kendwa is a lively area with a vibrant nightlife and its famous monthly full moon parties at Kendwa Rocks. Though lively and touristy, Kendwa is considered more laid-back and less crowded than its neighbour, Nungwi.
  
  
  
• Being in the northern tip of the island, Kendwa benefits from something that the East coast of Zanzibar doesn’t – sunsets! It was very heartwarming to witness people gathering by the waterline each day to watch the sun hide behind the horizon, creating a fiery red and orange sky. The sunset in Kendwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’ve witnessed in my life.
  
  
  
• Kendwa is considered one of the best beaches in Zanzibar, for its long and spacious stretch of white sand. Kendwa is considered as one of the most beautiful parts of Zanzibar, and tends to attract families, couples, and young groups of friends. The beach is rich in big resorts, rather than small independent/boutique hotels.
  
  
  
• If you’re an adrenaline-junkie, you’ll love to know that Kendwa is also the only place in Zanzibar where you can try a thrilling skydiving experience!

Cons:

• Since Kendwa is one of Zanzibar’s most touristic areas, you will be approached by beach sellers a lot here, when compared to other parts of the island. Beach sellers are not allowed to trespass into the private hotel areas, but they will approach you on the public beach.
  
  
  
• Being one of the main tourist hotspots of Zanzibar, Kendwa observes some of the highest prices on the island, especially during peak season (between June and August, and from December to February). If you’re on a budget, staying in other parts of the island will certainly reduce your travel costs.
  
  
  
• Kendwa is a party spot and can be too lively for those seeking a more relaxing holiday. If you’re not a fan of the party crowd, then staying in other parts of the island (like Jambiani) might be a better choice for you.

Where to Stay in Kendwa:

During my trip, I still wanted to know what the northern part of the island was like, but I didn’t want to stay at the more expensive and touristy beachfront hotels.

Instead, I found Kendwa Breeze, a newly-opened, independent stay owned by a local couple, with only four rooms and a lovely pool.

Nungwi

Nungwi is Zanzibar’s tourist hotspot, with a privileged position in the north of Zanzibar, and without tidal shifts.

As this is where most tourists stay in Zanzibar, you can expect large resort hotels, from budget to luxury, as well as plenty of restaurants and shops. Considered by many as the most beautiful part of Zanzibar, Nungwi Beach has clear turquoise waters and great opportunities for snorkelling and water sports.

Pros:

• Contrary to the East coast of Zanzibar, Nungwi experiences little tide shifts, so it’s possible to swim in the sea throughout the day. The water here is also calm and clear, making this area perfect for families travelling with young children.
  
  
  
• Being in the northern tip of the island, Nungwi benefits from something that the East coast of Zanzibar doesn’t – sunsets! This is also one of the areas where you can spot locals walking their herds of cows on the beach!
  
  
  
• Nungwi is a perfect area for water sports, like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and jet skiing. It’s also a good area for snorkelling and diving in Tumbatu Island or Mnemba Atoll.
  
  
  
• Nungwi is considered one of the best beaches in Zanzibar, for its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. Nungwi Beach tends to attract families, couples, and young groups of friends. It is rich in big resorts and accommodations for all kinds of budgets, rather than small independent/boutique hotels.

Cons:

• Since Nungwi is one of Zanzibar’s most touristic areas, you will be approached by beach sellers the most here, when compared to other parts of the island. Beach sellers are not allowed to trespass into the private hotel areas, but they will approach you on the public beach.
  
  
  
• Being one of the main tourist hotspots of Zanzibar, Nungwi observes some of the highest prices on the island, especially during peak season (between June and August, and from December to February). If you’re on a budget, staying in other parts of the island will certainly reduce your travel costs.
  
  
  
• Along with being the most touristy beach in Zanzibar, Nungwi is also one of the most crowded areas to stay on the island.

Last thoughts

I hope this post helps you plan your next trip to Zanzibar and choosing where to stay. There are various areas, but no matter which ones you pick I’m sure you’re going to have a great time!

Feel free to let me know in the comments if you have any questions regarding any part of this post – I’ll do my best to help.