Zanzibar Pearl Boutique Hotel & Spa is a 4-star establishment situated on the waterfront of Matemwe Beach, on the north-east coast of Zanzibar. The property features 24 rooms and villas, a restaurant with Swahili, Indian and Mediterranean influences, a spa and direct access to the beach facing Mnemba atoll.

Why choose this hotel

The location at Matemwe positions the hotel overlooking one of the Indian Ocean's finest snorkeling and diving spots: Mnemba atoll lies just minutes away by boat. The property maintains an intimate scale with its 24 units, a refreshing departure from the large resorts dotting the east coast. The hotel provides complimentary bicycles to reach Matemwe village and explore the surroundings at your own pace.

Atmosphere

The establishment embraces the boutique hotel philosophy: open spaces flowing into the tropical garden, locally-inspired furnishings, neutral tones. The pool, sun loungers beneath swaying palms and the library anchor the common areas. The rhythm remains unhurried, free from heavy entertainment, ideally suited for travelers seeking a tranquil setting after a safari on the mainland.

Rooms and villas

The 24 accommodations divide into four distinct categories:

• Pearl Suites: neutral tones and locally-inspired furnishings, with private beach access.
• Oyster Suites: open outdoor terrace overlooking the tropical garden, capacity for 3 guests, bungalow format.
• Oyster Villas: 360-degree design featuring bedroom, indoor living area, bathrooms and elevated lounge for relaxation, capacity for 4 guests.
• Pearl Villas: two bedrooms, spacious living room, open-air shower and private plunge pool outside, steps from the beach.

Pearl Suites suit couples seeking direct beach access, while Pearl Villas cater to families or travelers craving privacy with their own pool.

Dining and services

The restaurant showcases cuisine rooted in Zanzibar's storied culinary heritage, an island historic for spice trade. The menu blends Swahili, Indian and Mediterranean recipes, with vegetarian options and the flexibility to adapt dishes to your preferences. The bar serves cocktails, tropical juices, beers, spirits and wines.

Service-wise, the hotel offers a spa for treatments, a pool, sun loungers and a library. Bicycles are complimentary at reception. Airport transfers from Zanzibar or Stone Town are arranged upon request.

Location and access

Matemwe Beach sits on Zanzibar's north-east coast, roughly 1.5 hours' drive from Zanzibar's international airport, depending on traffic. The beach stretches facing Mnemba atoll, a private marine reserve renowned for its crystalline waters and rich marine biodiversity.

For moving around the island, several options are available: private transfers arranged by the hotel, car rental (subject to local permits), or dala-dalas—those colorful open trucks serving as shared transport, offering a glimpse into local life. The village of Matemwe is reachable on foot or by bicycle in just minutes from the hotel.

Nearby

Should you wish to extend your beach stay or compare other options along Zanzibar's coast, several properties deserve your attention:

• Karafuu Beach Resort, on the island's south-east coast.
• Breezes Beach Club & Spa, another seaside address in Zanzibar.
• Kobe House, for a more intimate experience.
• Gran Melia Arusha or Karatu Simba Lodge, to pair Zanzibar with a mainland safari.

Planning your stay

Zanzibar Pearl Boutique Hotel & Spa integrates seamlessly into a journey combining a Tanzanie safari with beach relaxation. To build your complete itinerary, explore our trips to Tanzanie and connect with our local advisors.