Melia Zanzibar occupies a pristine stretch of Zanzibar's northeast coast at Kiwengwa, some fifty kilometres from Stone Town. This 5-star resort extends along a white sand beach bordered by a coral reef, within a park planted with tropical trees that descends to the Indian Ocean.

Why choose Melia Zanzibar

The establishment combines a prime location on one of the archipelago's finest beaches, a dining offer built around Swahili and international cuisine, and spaces reserved for adults within a resort that also welcomes families. The presence of five restaurants, including one set on a jetty over the sea, structures much of the experience.

Atmosphere and design

The resort cultivates the feel of a tropical retreat rather than a standardised international hotel. The park separating the pavilions from the beach softens the overall density: you move between palm trees, shaded walkways and garden zones before reaching the shore. The infinity pool overlooking the ocean and the balinese beds scattered between beach and poolside set the tone for a stay at an unhurried pace. The adult-only spaces within The Level category—pavilions and bungalows accessible to guests 18 and over—offer a quieter sanctuary away from the family zone.

Rooms

Accommodation is available in several categories, from garden rooms to villas with private pools. All rooms feature an en-suite bathroom with hairdryer, robes and slippers, individual air conditioning, ceiling fan, mosquito net, pillow selection, complimentary wifi, flat-screen television, complimentary minibar, tea and coffee courtesy tray and safe.

• Standard Room: for 2 people or 2 adults and 1 child, garden view from the terrace.
• Side Sea View Room: balcony with partial sea views, capacity 2 adults + 1 child.
• Family Room: for 3 people, balcony overlooking the garden, several configurations available.
• The Level Romance Ocean Front Pavilion: reserved for ages 18 and over, panoramic ocean-facing balcony.
• Bungalow: adults only, sea view from the balcony.
• The Level Beach Pavilion: adults only, terrace facing the sea.
• Villa with private pool: 2 to 3 people or 2 adults and 2 children, private terrace, two bathrooms, garden view.

A crib is available at no charge (ages 0-2), subject to room capacity.

Restaurants and services

Five restaurants serve different times of day and several culinary styles. Swahili cuisine takes the spotlight through biryani, chapatis, grilled mahi-mahi and seafood curry, alongside international and Mediterranean offerings. Vegetarian and vegan options draw on local produce: coconut, cassava, banana, spices.

• Spices: garden restaurant, international cuisine with Arab, African and Mediterranean influences.
• Gabi Beach: grilled meats, seafood, salads and wood-fired pizzas beachside.
• Pool Bar: light meals, sandwiches, snacks and cocktails by the main pool.
• Jetty Lounge: bar-restaurant set on a jetty over the sea, local cuisine.
• The Library: air-conditioned bar near the lobby, aperitifs, cigar selection, lounge ambiance.

Activities include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, tennis courts, fitness room, spa and balinese beds along the beach or poolside. The Mini Club welcomes children aged 4 to 12 with an age-appropriate programme.

Location

The resort sits in Kiwengwa, on Zanzibar's northeast coast, approximately 45-50 km from Stone Town and Zanzibar's international airport (ZNZ)—around an hour's drive depending on conditions. Transfer is by private car or taxi. The Emerald Dream of Zanzibar is 2 km away, and the Kiwengwa Caves, worth exploring for a half-day excursion, are 6 km distant.

In the vicinity

To extend your beach experience or discover another side of the archipelago, several options are worth exploring. The Karafuu Beach Resort offers a different perspective on Zanzibar's coastline, on the southeast shore. In Stone Town, the Dhow Palace Hotel captures the historic atmosphere of the old city. On the mainland, the Gran Melia Arusha makes an excellent base before or after a safari in the north.

Plan your stay

Melia Zanzibar suits both an extended beach holiday and a final stop after a mainland safari. To build an itinerary combining coast and savanna, explore our journeys in Tanzania.