SBH Kilindini Resort sits on a shaded coconut palm-dotted plot at Pwani Mchangani, on Zanzibar's north-east coast, 2 km north of Kiwengwa. This 5-star property, operated by SBH Hotels & Resorts, runs on an all-inclusive basis and sits directly on a white sand beach bordered by a turquoise lagoon.

Why choose this accommodation

The resort stands out for its prime beachfront location at Pwani Mchangani, one of the quietest stretches of white sand on the north-east coast. The architecture draws on local codes and blends seamlessly into an expansive tropical garden. The all-inclusive formula covers accommodation, meals at the resort's two restaurants and access to entertainment.

Travellers seeking a beach haven after a safari in northern Tanzania will find a pace suited to relaxation here, with a swimming pool, spa and water activities on-site.

Atmosphere and feel

The atmosphere is that of a large beach resort, with daytime activities and themed evenings, yet the landscape temperers this impression: coconut palms, shaded gardens, expansive sandy shores. On the lagoon side, tidal rhythms shape the day. At low tide, sandbanks emerge and the seaweed farmers of Pwani Mchangani come to harvest their crops in the shallow water, while traditional dhows sail past. At high tide, the lagoon fills and becomes a vast natural swimming pool perfect for bathing.

The rooms

The resort has 80 rooms spread across four categories, all decorated with African flair and set within the tropical garden or beachfront.

• Deluxe Double Room: king-size four-poster bed, air conditioning, television, safe, private bathroom, furnished terrace or balcony.
• Communicating Deluxe Double Room: same amenities as the Deluxe, with furnished private terrace, ideal for families.
• Superior Double Room: overlooking the main pool, balcony or terrace, air conditioning, television, safe, mini-fridge, bathroom with hairdryer.
• Beachfront Master Room: ground-floor suites with direct beach access, four-poster bed with mosquito net, sitting area, minibar, spacious bathroom.

Dining and services

Two restaurants make up the culinary offer:

• Le Mirage: breakfast, lunch and dinner served buffet-style, with a selection of local and international dishes.
• La Mer: themed dinners on the beachfront, with evenings dedicated to seafood.

Two bars complete the offering: Africa Bar and Pool Bar, open throughout the day for drinks, cocktails and snacks.

On the leisure side, the resort features a pool overlooking the beach, a gym, a wellness centre and offers daytime and evening entertainment. Water activities include snorkelling, mask and fin diving, as well as fishing trips from the beach.

Location and access

The resort is located at Pwani Mchangani, 2 km north of Kiwengwa, on Zanzibar's north-east coast. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is approximately 46 km south-west, a journey of just under an hour by taxi depending on traffic. The property offers an airport shuttle service, to be arranged at the time of booking.

The fishing village of Pwani Mchangani is accessible on foot from the hotel and offers a glimpse of local life, with moored dhows and a fish market.

Around the area

The resort's location allows for a blend of leisure and excursions along the north-east coast:

• Muyuni Beach, accessible on foot in about fifteen minutes.
• Kigomani and Mapenzi beaches, a short drive away.
• Mnemba Island, approximately 20 minutes' drive from the resort, renowned for its atoll and snorkelling spots.

To compare with other beachfront addresses on Zanzibar, you can consult the Karafuu Beach Resort or the Breezes Beach Club & Spa, located on the east coast. For a more intimate stay in Stone Town, Kobe House offers a different atmosphere. On the mainland, the Gran Melia Arusha and Karatu Simba Lodge serve as bases for combining safari and beach.

Preparing your stay

SBH Kilindini Resort fits naturally into an itinerary combining a safari in the north of the country with a beach extension on Zanzibar. To build a bespoke trip, explore our holidays in Tanzania.