The Residence Zanzibar
- Miles Willis
- Nov 14
- 4 min read
The Residence Zanzibar – A Luxury Family Hideaway on the Pristine Southwest Coast
If you’re dreaming of a luxurious yet relaxed island escape where uninterrupted turquoise waters meet quiet palm-lined shores, The Residence Zanzibar on the southwest coast may be exactly what your family needs. This award-winning beachfront retreat combines private-villa living with world-class service, tropical nature, and exceptional value for discerning South African travellers seeking a premium Indian Ocean holiday.
Located near the peaceful village of Kizimkazi, The Residence is wrapped in 32 hectares of lush gardens and coconut palms. This quiet side of Zanzibar is known for its calm lagoon, warm shallow waters, and soft sandy beaches—ideal for families with children, couples wanting tranquillity, and anyone seeking a secluded luxury escape far from busier parts of the island.
Whether you're planning your next school-holiday adventure or a once-in-a-lifetime family beach holiday, here’s why The Residence Zanzibar is one of the best family resorts in Zanzibar—and why booking with IslandStays ensures you get the perfect package at the best possible value.
1. Why the Location Is Perfect for a Family Holiday
The southwest coast is one of Zanzibar’s most unspoilt and peaceful regions. Unlike the busier north and east coast, the Kizimkazi area offers:
Calm, Shallow Waters for Kids
The lagoon on this part of the island is sheltered and gently sloping, making it a safe and enjoyable swimming area for younger children. The tides here are less dramatic, which means the beach remains accessible throughout the day.
Seclusion and Privacy
This region is known for its remote, exclusive feel. The Residence occupies a long, private stretch of coastline surrounded by tropical forest—ideal for families who prefer space, quiet, and natural beauty.
Easy Access to Top Zanzibar Highlights
Despite its secluded setting, the resort is within reach of many must-see attractions:
Jozani Forest for Red Colobus monkeys
Stone Town for culture, shopping, and markets
Dolphin trips from nearby Kizimkazi
Spice farm experiences
This combination of privacy and accessibility makes The Residence one of the most strategically located luxury hotels in Zanzibar.
2. Villa-Style Accommodation Perfect for Families with Children
One of the biggest reasons families love The Residence Zanzibar is the accommodation style: every guest stays in a spacious private villa.
Your Own Private Pool
All villas feature a full-size private swimming pool, a huge advantage for families who want privacy, convenience, and the ability to swim at any time of day.
Generous Layouts
Villas start from 99m² and go up to 468m², offering:
Large indoor and outdoor living areas
Separate sleeping spaces for adults and kids
Sun loungers, daybeds, and private garden areas
Indoor and outdoor showers
Whether you’re a couple with one child or a large multi-generational family, these villas offer far more space than traditional hotel rooms.
Kid-Friendly Amenities
Families can request:
Baby cots
Extra beds
Interleading villa options
Kids’ toys, pool floats, and bath amenities
The comfort and flexibility make villa holidays incredibly stress-free for parents.
3. World-Class Facilities Designed for Relaxation and Adventure
The Residence Zanzibar blends barefoot luxury with exceptional facilities that keep adults and children entertained.
The Kids’ Club – A Big Hit for Young Travellers
Open to children aged 3–12, the Kids’ Club offers both indoor and outdoor activities:
Arts and crafts
Nature walks
Beach games
Swahili culture & cooking sessions
It allows parents to enjoy quiet time while the children are fully entertained and well supervised.
The Hotel’s 1.2km Beachfront
The beach here is expansive and peaceful—ideal for:
Beach walks
Paddle boarding
Kayaking
Building sandcastles
Snorkelling in calm conditions
The Signature Spa & Wellness Experiences
Adults can unwind at the award-winning spa, featuring:
Private treatment pavilions
Adults-only relaxation areas
A yoga pavilion overlooking the forest
Dining Options Cater to Both Kids and Adults
With themed evenings, buffet choices, à la carte options, and child-friendly menus, families will always find something delicious and varied.
4. Why The Residence Zanzibar Offers Outstanding Value for Money
The Residence sits in the luxury tier, but it consistently offers excellent value when compared to similar 5-star resorts across the Indian Ocean.
Private Pool Villas at a Far Better Price Point
In destinations like Mauritius or the Maldives, private-pool villas easily cost double or triple the price. The Residence gives you:
Privacy
Space
Tailored service
at a far more attractive rate.
Great All-Inclusive and Half-Board Options
Depending on the season, families can upgrade to all-inclusive packages that cover:
All meals
Selected drinks
Non-motorised watersports
Resort activities
This makes budgeting much easier for South African families travelling with kids and teens.
Ideal for School Holidays
Zanzibar often has better availability and rates compared to other Indian Ocean islands during:
Easter
June/July holidays
December peak
Meaning families can enjoy exceptional value without compromising on luxury.
5. Why Families Should Book The Residence Zanzibar with IslandStays
IslandStays specialises in Indian Ocean island holidays for South Africans—and this experience gives you a major advantage when planning your trip.
Expert Knowledge of Zanzibar Resorts
We know which room types, villa combinations, and meal plans work best for:
Families with small children
Families with teens
Multi-generational groups
This ensures you get the ideal villa layout and the correct package from the start.
Exclusive South African Rates & Special Offers
IslandStays receives preferred partner rates and negotiated specials—meaning your family often pays less compared to booking directly.
We Handle Everything
From flights and transfers to recommending what to do in Zanzibar, we simplify your entire holiday:
Flight timings that minimise long layovers
Smooth private transfers to the resort
The right meal plan for your family’s style
Excursion planning with trusted suppliers
You arrive relaxed, prepared, and ready to enjoy your family beach holiday from the first moment.
Peace of Mind
We provide:
Secure payment options
Up-to-date travel advice
Local support
Emergency assistance
This is especially important for families travelling with young children.
6. Final Thoughts: A Perfect Private-Pool Escape for South African Families
With its vast private villas, quiet lagoon setting, exceptional service, and superb value for money, The Residence Zanzibar is one of the best family-friendly luxury resorts on the island. The calm southwest coast sets the scene for relaxation, while the resort’s facilities ensure children and parents enjoy every moment.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, premium, and spacious beach escape where the whole family can unwind, reconnect, and enjoy a world-class island experience, The Residence Zanzibar should be at the top of your list.
IslandStays will tailor the perfect package to match your family’s needs—so you can simply enjoy the magic of Zanzibar.
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