East Coast Zanzibar hotel rooms a the Independent

"The staff 100% make this place, so friendly, so helpful and generally infectious. We cant thank everyone enough for making our honeymoon so special and taking care of us throughout our stay "

"This resort is the closest I've been to a natural paradise. My stay was incredible in every possible way. The Isaraya overwater bungalows are beautifully decorated and you feel like you're living in your own personal paradise looking out onto the ocean, your private pool, and the fishermen who pass by. The food was amazing with lots of different choices of local dishes including fresh fish and fruits daily. The best part of all was the staff. They were so helpful, especially when you try to speak a few words in swahili, and will do all they can to serve you, even dinner on the beach, on request. Beatrice, the hospitality manager, was absolutely incredible and the kindness of the whole team will make your trip exceptional. It is very quiet there, day and night, which is what I was seeking, but no night life except a couple of evenings where there was music, so if you're wanting fun, I'd go elsewhere or you'll need to book a taxi every day. It is about 90 minutes from Stone Town or the spice farm, so most visits will be a full day trip due to the roads. Some people complain about the Maasai, but they guard the property. They made me feel safe, and they are lovely to chat to. Of course they'll try to sell you something, but just be polite, laugh with them, and negotiate, you'll be so glad you did because it'll add to your memories. I personally had an unforgettable stay and I can't wait to go back."

"Stunning private beach Don't leave cash around, We left cash by the bedside table they came to turn the bed at night whilst we went for dinner and the cash was gone. "

"Bloody amazing place to chill and relax. Beautiful stretch of beach. Amazing and professional MANAGER & ALL OF HIS STAFF. Excellent food and entertainment. "

"This is my second time staying at Meliá, and it won’t be my last. It’s not only because the hotel and grounds are beautiful. It’s the staff, they are exceptional, they’re the most friendly, smiley, professional and provide amazing service. Every room is cleaned twice a day and I’ve left valuables lying around and everything has always been safe. My only complaint this time was that there was no working light in the shower but other than that everything was 10/10."

"Great service "

"We had an exceptional stay at Ycona Luxury Resort—truly one of the best resorts I’ve ever visited. The villa was beautifully designed, combining luxury with lush greenery and a variety of trees that created a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. As a wildlife enthusiast and photographer, I was thrilled to spot incredible species right from the resort grounds, including a Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey, a Red Squirrel, and the stunning Woodland Kingfisher. Everything about the stay felt curated and serene—from the elegant layout of the resort to the natural surroundings. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a luxurious yet nature-filled retreat in Zanzibar."

"Food was amazing. Rooms were very big and clean. Staff are very friendly and extremely kind. Woukd highly recommend. We will definitely be back. "

"We are a retired couple from Australia cycling the world on bicycles. This hotel was simply amazing! The staff so welcoming, the room had the best view ever being right on the beach, the food and service was top notch. And the price was very affordable. A hidden gem in paradise and not over run by Europeans either like many of the hotels we’ve stayed at. Highly recommend! "