Pongwe Beach

Location: Around an hour’s drive from Stone Town, Pongwe Beach Hotel is tucked away on a peaceful stretch of Zanzibar’s east coast. Its remote setting makes it ideal for a quiet retreat, surrounded by white sand, turquoise water and shady palms. It’s a great base for exploring the island, while remaining well away from the busier resort areas.

Rooms: Accommodation is in simple, traditional cottages, most of which line the beachfront with uninterrupted ocean views. There are options for couples, solo travellers, families and small groups, with two to four rooms per cottage. A handful of sea-view suites also come with private plunge pools. Interiors are pared-back but comfortable, with ceiling fans, mosquito nets and shaded verandas.

Amenities: The open-air restaurant serves a daily-changing menu that includes plenty of fresh seafood and can cater for all dietary needs. The relaxed bar mixes fresh fruit juices and classic cocktails, with a good range of local and imported drinks. There’s also a small pool near the beach and loungers scattered across the sand.

Activities: This is a lovely spot for swimming, snorkelling or simply enjoying the sun. For those keen to explore, the hotel can arrange excursions to Stone Town, spice plantations, Prison Island, Jozani Forest and other key sites. Sunset dhow cruises, wildlife experiences and visits to the nearby butterfly centre or turtle sanctuary are all easily accessible.

Sustainability: Pongwe Beach Hotel is committed to low-impact tourism, with a strong focus on employing local staff, supporting nearby communities and minimising its environmental footprint.