Zanzibar — Traveler Guide
Zanzibar comes alive after dark, and these hotels put you at the epicentre of the action. Located in the liveliest entertainment districts, with their own buzzing bars and a late-checkout culture, they're perfect for guests who believe the night is young.
Quick Answer
Zanzibar comes alive after dark, and these hotels put you at the epicentre of the action. Located in the liveliest entertainment districts, with their own buzzing bars and a late-checkout culture, they're perfect for guests who believe the night is young.
6 hotels reviewed · Price range: $$$$, $$ · Last updated March 2026
About This Guide
Zanzibar offers exceptional options for travellers seeking nightlife hotels, and we've curated the very best. Each property has been selected for its outstanding facilities, prime location, and the quality of experience it delivers. Leading our list, Baraza Resort & Spa excels with its exceptional attention to detail and commitment to the nightlife experience. Emerson Spice offers a compelling alternative with its unique approach and distinctive character. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Zanzibar or returning for another stay, these hotels represent the gold standard for nightlife accommodation in the city. Each has been independently evaluated for quality, location, and value.
Insider Tips
Book directly with the hotel for the best rate guarantee and potential upgrades.
Read recent guest reviews for the most up-to-date assessment of facilities.
Consider visiting during shoulder season for better rates and fewer crowds.
Ask the concierge for local recommendations — they know Zanzibar better than any guidebook.
Our Picks
6 hotels · Updated February 2026
Paje
A spectacular Arabic-Zanzibar palace resort of 30 private pool villas — Baraza is defined by extraordinary architectural beauty, with carved plasterwork, Arabic arches, and a beach terrace that looks like a film set.
Stone Town
Zanzibar's most characterful boutique hotel occupies a beautifully restored 19th-century merchant house in the heart of Stone Town — 11 individually decorated rooms and the famous rooftop tea house with its three-storey Stone Town views.
Nungwi
An architecturally striking boutique resort of 40 suites and villas perched above Zanzibar Channel north of Nungwi — Essque Zalu's contemporary Swahili-Zanzibar design and private beach access make it one of the north's best addresses.
Jambiani
A tiny collection of luxurious private cottages on the wild northeast coast — Matemwe Retreat is for those who want complete seclusion, stunning ocean views, and direct access to some of the finest diving in the Indian Ocean.
A refined resort of private pool villas on the south-east coast — 66 villas in a coconut grove leading to a pristine beach, with one of the island's best spa programmes and a restaurant that draws guests from across the island.
Stone Town
Occupying a beautifully restored colonial mansion on the Stone Town seafront, the Park Hyatt Zanzibar is the island's finest historic hotel — 67 rooms blending Swahili heritage with contemporary luxury and a dhow harbour panorama from every sea-facing room.
Keep Exploring
Common Questions
Hotels in entertainment districts invest heavily in soundproofing. Request a higher floor or quieter-side room if you're a light sleeper.
Many nightlife-oriented hotels offer flexible checkout times, especially on weekends. Check with the hotel — some offer guaranteed late checkout with loyalty programmes.
More Destinations
Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.
View All Zanzibar Hotels