Discover understated luxury on Zanzibar’s quiet northeast coast
Location: Zoi Retreat Hotel sits on the peaceful shores of Matemwe, a quiet stretch of Zanzibar's northeast coast known for its powdery white sands and laid-back feel. It's a far cry from the island's busier beaches, offering a more authentic, slow-paced experience. From here, you're well-place for boat trips to Mnemba Atoll, sunrise strolls along the tide-shifting shoreline, and getting a real sense of island life in the nearby fishing village.
Rooms: With just 11 rooms, including a family suite, Zoi Retreat keeps things intimate, Each room is bright and airy, with thoughtful Swahili-inspired touches, large beds draped in mosquito nets, and shaded verandas for cooling off after a swim. The style is simple yet stylish - designed to let the natural setting shine through. Some rooms offer sea views, others are tucked away in the gardens, but all are just moments from the beach.
Amenities: While small in scale, Zoi offers everything you need for a relaxed island stay. The pool sits at the edge of the beach, with loungers and hammocks inviting you to slow right down. The open-air restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced food - plenty of seafood, tropical fruits, and Zanzibari flavours - while the bar mixes up refreshing cocktails and juices throughout the day. There is also free Wi-Fi and a small wellness area offering massages on request.
Activities: You can be as active or as laid-back as you like here. Snorkelling and diving trips to Mnemba Atoll are a highlight, with colourful reefs and the chance to spot dolphins or turtles. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for exploring the calm lagoon, and the hotel can arrange spice farm visits, dhow cruises, or cultural tours inland. Or simply enjoy the rhythm of beach life - watching the tide roll in and the local fisherman head out in their ngalawas.
Sustainability: Zoi Retreat takes a low-impact approach to hospitality. The hotel is locally owners and run, with staff drawn from surrounding communities and a strong focus on training and fair employment. Solar power supports much of the hotel's energy use, and fresh ingredients are sourced from nearby farms and fishers wherever possible. They also avoid single-use plastics and support local conservation projects around Mnemba's marine ecosystem.
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Alistair
Zanzibar Expert