Sunshine Marine Lodge perches on a cliff north of Matemwe, on Zanzibar's east coast, facing Mnemba atoll. The property brings together sixteen rooms, a PADI dive centre, two pools and a spa, all oriented toward the Indian Ocean and the marine life of Mnemba park.

Why choose Sunshine Marine Lodge

Three elements set this address apart. First, its position: the cliff overlooks Mnemba atoll, one of the archipelago's most sought-after dive sites. Next, its integrated dive centre, Dive Point Zanzibar, staffed by PADI-certified instructors and divemasters, reaching the marine park in roughly twenty minutes by boat. Finally, a fusion cuisine drawing on Zanzibar's spices — clove, ginger, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon — and produce from local farms.

The lodge suits both divers and travellers seeking a beach finale after a safari in northern Tanzania.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere remains that of an intimate lodge, without the formality of large resorts. Vegetation surrounds the buildings, a wooden jetty extends from the cliff over the water, and Sunshine Bay beach is reachable on foot at low tide or by shuttle at high tide. The rhythm follows the tides and water excursions: dawn dive departures, meals in the shade, yoga three times weekly, spa treatments in the afternoon. Yoga retreats are also arranged for longer stays.

The rooms

The lodge has 16 rooms across five categories, from garden suites to oceanfront suites:

• Garden Suite: for two guests, set back in the vegetation.
• Deluxe Garden Suite (30 m²): up to three guests, garden views.
• Family Oceanview Suite (55 m²): up to four adults or two adults and two children, panoramic views.
• Oceanside Suite (40 m²): for three adults, open veranda overlooking the ocean.
• Oceanfront Luxury Suite (50 m²): for three adults, direct views across the horizon.

Each room includes complimentary Wi-Fi, ceiling fans, organic bath products, and a balcony or terrace.

Services and activities

Diving and marine life

Dive Point Zanzibar serves Mnemba atoll's sites, roughly twenty minutes by boat away. Dives range between reef walls on the west side and drop-offs on the east. Dolphins and schooling fish are regularly spotted. Non-divers can opt for snorkelling or observation outings.

Dining

Fusion cuisine blends Swahili flavours with international influences. The restaurant offers breakfast, half-board or full-board, featuring fish and seafood dishes (tuna, marlin, lobster, squid, octopus) and seasonal vegetables from local farms. The bar has an upper deck for private dinners.

Spa and wellness

The spa offers massages, aromatherapy, body scrubs, manicures and pedicures. Yoga is held three times weekly, with themed retreats organised periodically.

Pools and beach

Two pools, including one reserved for children, complement the wooden jetty and access to Sunshine Bay beach.

Location and access

The lodge sits north of Matemwe, on Zanzibar's northeast coast, facing Mnemba atoll. Expect roughly one hour's drive from Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) or Stone Town. Three transfer options are available: rental car, pre-arranged private transfer (simplest), or taxi from the airport.

Nearby

Matemwe serves as a practical base to explore Zanzibar's east and north coasts. Mnemba atoll remains the main draw for snorkelling and diving. Stone Town, about an hour's drive away, deserves a day for its UNESCO-listed historic centre, spice market and historic Swahili houses. The southeast coast around Paje and Jambiani offers different lagoon landscapes and a kitesurfing-oriented scene.

To extend a circuit, other Zanzibar beach properties such as Karafuu Beach Resort or Breezes Beach Club & Spa cover the southeast coast. On the mainland, Gran Melia Arusha or Karatu Simba Lodge serve as stopovers before or after a safari in the north of the country.

Planning your stay

Sunshine Marine Lodge fits naturally into an itinerary combining safari and beach. To build a tailor-made trip incorporating this property, explore our Tanzania circuits.