The 10 Best Resorts in Zanzibar for 2025/2026
- Miles Willis
- Oct 10
- 4 min read
Best Beaches, Food & Accommodation
Zanzibar has long been one of the most enchanting island destinations in the Indian Ocean. With its palm-fringed beaches, spice-scented air, and turquoise waters, this tropical paradise is a magnet for travellers seeking the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and culture.
At IslandStays, we’ve handpicked the 10 best resorts in Zanzibar for 2025/2026, carefully chosen for their spectacular beaches, world-class dining, and exceptional accommodation. Whether you’re looking for barefoot luxury, a romantic escape, or an all-inclusive family getaway, these resorts capture the very best that Zanzibar has to offer.
🏝️ 1. The Residence Zanzibar – Ultimate Beachfront Luxury
Located on the island’s peaceful southwest coast, The Residence Zanzibar is a sanctuary of indulgence and seclusion. Each private villa comes with its own pool, surrounded by tropical gardens and pristine beachfront. The resort’s white-sand beach stretches endlessly, offering perfect swimming and sunset views.
The dining here is exceptional, with fusion cuisine blending African, Arabic, and Mediterranean flavours. This is one of Zanzibar’s top luxury resorts for honeymooners and couples wanting total privacy.
Best for: Luxury, romance, and fine dining
🌺 2. Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa – Best Beach on the Island
Located on the stunning Kendwa Beach, famous for its powder-soft sand and turquoise lagoon, Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa offers postcard-perfect surroundings and barefoot luxury. Its spacious rooms and beachfront suites open directly onto the beach — ideal for travellers who want to wake up to the sound of the waves.
The food is consistently rated among the best in Zanzibar, with a mix of international cuisine and fresh seafood specialties. Sunset dinners here are unforgettable.
Best for: Beach lovers, couples, and luxury seekers
🌴 3. Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar – All-Inclusive Elegance
Set on the north coast near Nungwi, Riu Palace Zanzibar combines elegant accommodation with a premium all-inclusive concept. The beachfront infinity pool and chic architecture make it one of the most stylish all-inclusive resorts on the island.
Guests enjoy à la carte dining, ocean-view suites, and impeccable service — making this one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Zanzibar for 2025/2026.
Best for: All-inclusive luxury, adults-only travel, ocean views
🌅 4. Zuri Zanzibar – Award-Winning Design & Cuisine
Located on Kendwa Beach, Zuri Zanzibar is known for its sustainable luxury and outstanding design. Every villa and bungalow is nestled in a lush tropical garden, blending nature with chic modern style.
Zuri’s beach is among the best in the world — wide, soft, and swimmable at all tides. The resort’s dining scene is world-class, featuring creative Swahili-inspired dishes and beachfront barbecues.
Best for: Design lovers, eco-luxury, and food enthusiasts
🌊 5. TUI Blue Bahari Zanzibar – Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resort
On the northeast coast near Kiwengwa, TUI Blue Bahari Zanzibar offers a family-friendly all-inclusive experience with style. Its grand Moorish design, tropical gardens, and long sandy beach create a paradise setting for families and couples alike.
Buffet and à la carte dining options cater to every taste, and activities include watersports, yoga, and entertainment programs.
Best for: Families, all-inclusive stays, and beach activities
🌿 6. Melia Zanzibar – Luxury and Space Combined
Stretching along a 300-metre beachfront on the northeast coast, Melia Zanzibar offers everything from romantic rooms to private beachfront villas. Its The Level experience provides exclusive perks like butler service, private dining, and sunset cocktails.
With several restaurants serving gourmet international cuisine and local flavours, Melia Zanzibar consistently ranks among the best food resorts in Zanzibar.
Best for: Couples, luxury travellers, and fine dining
🌅 7. TUI Blue Nungwi – Adults-Only Paradise
For travellers seeking peace and romance, TUI Blue Nungwi delivers adults-only tranquillity on one of Zanzibar’s most scenic beaches. The turquoise waters, coral reefs, and boutique-style rooms make it ideal for honeymooners or couples.
Dining highlights include beachside seafood grills and themed nights celebrating local flavours.
Best for: Adults-only relaxation, romance, and water activities
🌸 8. Essque Zalu Zanzibar – Oceanfront Architecture & Art
Set between Nungwi and Kendwa, Essque Zalu Zanzibar is famous for its dramatic ocean pier, stylish suites, and elegant Swahili-inspired design. The large infinity pool and overwater bar offer some of the best sunset views on the island.
The resort is known for its fine dining, featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative presentation.
Best for: Architecture lovers, couples, and fine dining
🌴 9. Neptune Pwani Beach Resort & Spa – All-Inclusive Perfection
Located on the northeast coast, Neptune Pwani Beach Resort & Spa offers one of Zanzibar’s most balanced experiences — beautiful beach, great food, and relaxed all-inclusive value. It’s large enough to offer variety, yet peaceful and personal in service.
The beach is ideal for swimming, long walks, and kite-surfing, while the restaurants serve excellent Mediterranean and Swahili cuisine.
Best for: Couples and families, great value
🌺 10. Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort – Boutique Perfection
Small, stylish, and highly personalized, Tulia Zanzibar near Pongwe Beach offers a boutique experience unlike any other. Its spacious villas feature private terraces, and the beach is quiet, scenic, and perfect for swimming.
With gourmet dining, a serene atmosphere, and attention to detail, Tulia stands out as one of Zanzibar’s top boutique resorts.
Best for: Boutique luxury, romance, and relaxation
🌞 Why Choose Zanzibar for Your 2025/2026 Island Holiday
Zanzibar is a tropical paradise that combines world-class beaches, warm hospitality, and a vibrant cultural heritage. Whether you want an all-inclusive luxury escape, a romantic honeymoon, or a family adventure, Zanzibar offers it all — at excellent value compared to similar island destinations.
And the best part? Zanzibar is visa-free for most travellers, easily accessible from major cities, and enjoys warm weather all year round.
✈️ Book Your Zanzibar Holiday with IslandStays
At IslandStays, we specialize in tailor-made island holidays for international travellers. Our experts know Zanzibar inside out — from the most beautiful beaches to the best resorts for families, couples, and groups.
We arrange complete holiday packages including:
Flights and airport transfers
Accommodation at the best Zanzibar resorts
All-inclusive or half-board options
Personalized travel planning from start to finish
📞 Contact IslandStays today to plan your 2025/2026 Zanzibar island holiday and experience the best beaches, finest food, and most luxurious accommodation the Spice Island has to offer.
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