If you’re looking for a new beach vacation destination, you should consider Zanzibar. There’s nothing quite like lounging around in your own private pool as you watch the sun setting into the horizon from its beautiful beaches.
Luckily, private pool suites are abundant in Zanzibar, so you’ll have your pick of hotels, whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or an action-packed family escape, these six properties will leave lasting memories with their luxurious amenities and stunning private pools.
Get ready to be swept away to a new island paradise!
Hotels with Private Pools in Zanzibar
The hotels in Zanzibar with private pools have been divided into 3 categories, so feel free to use these links to jump to the section that interests you most. Below the list of recommended hotels, I’ve included some tips about navigating all-inclusives in Zanzibar as well.
At a glance:
- Luxe hotels in Zanzibar with private pool rooms (3): $600+/night
- All-inclusive resorts in Zanzibar with private pool rooms for families (1): $450+/night
- Great value hotels with private pool suites (3): $250+/night
Newbies: What to Know about Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a an archipelago of 2 large and many small islands off the East coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. Though Zanzibar City is located on the island of Unguja, the island is colloquially called Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is renowned for its unique blend of cultures, a rich history, and unparalleled natural beauty. The island is a melting pot of African, Arabian, Indian, and European influences, which is reflected in its diverse architecture, food, and traditions. Zanzibar’s historical Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of cobbled alleys, bustling bazaars, and ornate houses that tell tales of the island’s past.
But it’s not just the cultural allure that sets Zanzibar apart. Its unspoiled beaches, with white sands and turquoise waters, are some of the best in the world. The island’s rich marine life makes it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
The lush spice plantations of Zanzibar have earned it the nickname “The Spice Island”, where visitors can learn about the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Last but definitely not least, the welcoming spirit of the Zanzibar people, famed for their hospitality, adds to the island’s charm and makes it a truly special destination to visit.
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa – Best Overall
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a Relais & Chateau property, a hotel group known for excellent hospitality and stunning hotels. This resort is located on one of the most beautiful beaches of Zanzibar’s western shores, Paje Beach.
The private pool villas are uniquely luxurious. Prepare to step into your own beachfront compound with butler service. These villas are broken up into 2 buildings connected by a private pool terrace with views of the beach.
One building is your bedroom and luxurious bathroom with rainshower and outdoor soaking tub in a private garden. The other is a living area with couches, a dining table and kitchenette. You’ll also have your own rooftop sun terrace and a floating breakfast is offered at all private pool villas.
Here are a few details that stand out at White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa:
- Resort restaurants source ingredients locally and from the onsite garden
- Secluded villas are a destination
- Upscale spa with organic skincare products, infrared sauna, and hammam
- Many activities like tennis, watersports, petanque, yoga
Baraza Resort and Spa
Baraza Resort and Spa is a 30 villa all-inclusive resort in Bwejuu, a beautiful beach on the east coast of Zanzibar. Compared to other luxury resorts on the island, Baraza is a unique and stunning Arabic design with local furnishings.
All thirty villas have private pools with one or two bedrooms, and they are very spacious villas.
The food is exceptional and you’ll taste Asian, Indian, African, and Arabic flavors in many of the dishes at their 4 restaurants. Try the signature treatment at Frangipani spa, the Sultans bath.
Details that stand out about Baraza Resort and Spa:
- Arabic design
- All villas have private pools
- Swahili cooking classes
Baraza Resort and Spa is a unique luxury resort that will make you feel like royalty on one of the best beaches in the world.
Zuri Zanzibar
The Zuri Zanzibar resort sits perched on the best beach of the north shore in Zanzibar. It’s about 50 km from the airport and Stone Town.
A member of the Design Hotel group, Zuri Zanzibar has 56 bungalows, suites and villas that are both stylish and ecologically responsible.
Tucked amongst the lush tropical greenery, their oceanfront villas have private outdoor pools and some suites have private jacuzzis on their decks as well.
The main hotel pool is nestled into the landscape with an infinity pool edge overlooking the pristine beach beyond. When you’re not lounging poolside at your villa, the main hotel pool and beach are stunning.
Details that stand out at Zuri Zanzibar:
- Swimmable private beach
- Perfect location for sunsets
- 3 restaurants with truly excellent food
- Zuri DJ sundowners and the beach bar
- Optional wellness programs
If you’re looking for unspoiled paradise, outstanding service, excellent food, and your own pool in Zanzibar, stay at Zuri.
Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa – Best All Inclusive for Families
Situated on the pristine Muyuni Beach in Matemwe, the Emerald Zanzibar Resort occupies nearly 25 acres (10 hectares) of terraced land and is encompassed by a circular reef that has been designated as a marine conservation area. This makes it feel like its own private beach area.
This all-inclusive Zanzibar resort has 5 suites with a private swimming pool and these features: dining and living areas, generous terraces, and expansive spa bathrooms.
Details that stand out about Emerald Zanzibar:
- Full service spa with sauna and steam room; sauna has view of the pool at the spa area
- Well-equipped air conditioned fitness center
- Grass tennis and paddle courts
- Kids club
- Main outdoor swimming pool is large with lots of loungers
Emerald Zanzibar is a great Zanzibar resort with private pool suites for families.
Value Hotels with Private Pools in Zanzibar
Zanbluu Beach Hotel – Great Value Beachfront Villas
Zanbluu is an adorable boutique hotel perched on a small cliff in Kiwengwa on the east coast of Zanzibar, that reminds me a little of the style you might see in Tulum.
Their 5 infinity suites are waterfront, with covered terraces and a small plunge pool in the sand overlooking the water. The rooms have a minimalist design with microcement finishes and open concept showers.
The food and cocktails are delicious, and the overall ambiance is chill at Zanbluu. The main pool is beautiful with an infinity edge on the beach.
Details that stand out about Zanbluu Beach Hotel:
- food and beverage
- great value for beachfront villas
- different dinner menu every night
TOA Hotel & Spa Zanzibar
Located on Pongwe beach, on the east coast, a great launchpad for exploring the rest of the island. TOA Hotel has 2 pools with thick cushioned loungers, a restaurant, cafe, spa, and a small fitness center.
This 86-room hotel has 8 honeymoon suites that each have a private plunge pool and chaise loungers on their beachfront porches. They are tastefully decorated with white and wood accents.
Details that stand out about TOA Hotel & Spa Zanzibar:
- outstanding service
- swim up bar in the main pool
- beach bbq with a live band
Kwanza Resort – Value with Swim-up Suites
Kwanza resort is located on the southwestern area called Kizimkazi in Zanzibar, with a 350m private beach. This boutique property has lush tropical garden grounds, and
Snag one of their sea front swim-up suites that have semi-private pool right off the deck.
The main outdoor pool has a very large baja shelf that covers both sides and plenty of steps to sit on and there are lots of chaise loungers, cabanas, and daybeds with very thick cushions on the deck and the sandy area beyond the pool.
- private beach with no vendors
- 5 min drive to a great snorkeling spot
- cave restaurant
Notes about All-Inclusive Resorts in Zanzibar
Most hotels and resorts in Zanzibar offer half or full board packages with your stay, even if they aren’t advertising themselves as an all-inclusive resort.
For some, all-inclusive is a dream – you don’t have to make any decisions. For others (I’m looking at you, foodies), it can be anxiety inducing, because you have to trust that the hotel will serve excellent food.
After extensive research on so many hotels in Zanzibar, a few things stood out from the reviews regarding the all-inclusive dining options, and I want to share them with you, so there are no surprises and you can plan your trip to run as smoothly as possible.
- Paying to stay at a hotel in Zanzibar doesn’t necessarily guarantee you a table at all the offered restaurants, even if you book the all-inclusive package. Lesson: Book your meals ahead of arrival. I repeat, book ahead.
- “Full board” means all-inclusive, but can exclude certain drinks or specialty orders. “Half-board” can be any combination of meals, so always read the details when you’re booking.
- Do your research on the specific F&B offerings at the hotel you’re going to book. Make sure there are more options than just the same meal or buffet every night.
Tips for Choosing a Hotel with Private Swimming Pool in Zanzibar
First, consider your budget and what you’re willing to pay for the best hotel and pool experience.
How much privacy do you want? Some hotels offer villas with lushly landscaped hedges around the private pool and yard area, while others are beachfront or exposed to the public areas of the hotel. Neither is wrong, just your preference.
Check out reviews on the food and drink quality and variety at the hotel before booking. I always try to vet hotels for their food and beverages. Bad food in a nice hotel can ruin the experience.
Do you want an adults-only resort or will you be traveling as a family? Find amenities that match the type of trip you’re after.
Make sure you read up on what is included in an all-inclusive package, if applicable.
Get out and see Zanzibar! Spice tours, sailing, city tours, and cooking classes showcase the cultural diversity of this place.
Conclusion
As one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world, Zanzibar is rich with beautiful resorts and hotels with private pools. With a private pool villa, you can veg out in your room and order room service or watch the sunset from your private balcony.
The best luxury hotel with private pool in room in Zanzibar is White Sand Resort & Spa. This hotel has it all – yummy food, great activities, beautiful pools, and of course, private pool villas.
While White Sand Resort is amazing, it’s not in everyone’s budget. If you’re looking for a private pool room at a great value, Zanbluu Hotel is a great choice. There aren’t many places in the world can you get a beachfront private pool bungalow for under $500.
