Hi. I can't decide between several hotels in Zanzibar for 3. Nights after our safari:
Matemwe bungalows
Shooting star
Ras nungwi
Or z hotel

We like a smallish hotel with more bungalow style than hotel room. The beach is super important as is proximity to diving and availability of kayaks. Soft white sand , not crowded and swimmable is what we want but I've read all kinds of things about tidal beaches either preventing swimming due to lack of water at. Some and lack of beach at others. Pictures online also show that some have lots of seaweed or are rocky or dirty....I'm just not sure what to do! Good food would also be nice since it doesn't seem like its a place you can just get around for restaurants.
Thanks for any thoughts

Diamond dreams of Zanzibar nice place I would guess!

Dream of Zanzibar best

Mbuyume bungalows

5% cash back 10% facebook like discount currently on Otel.com

Booking.com

Priceline.com

Good deals..happy hunting!

could someone please comment on the 4 hotel choices i had already narrowed down to please?

I've stayed at Shooting Star. The beach is fairly narrow and is reached by steps going down the cliff. The bungalows were nice and had air conditioning, which is important for some travelers. The meals were good and there is a nice pool area up by the lodge. I haven't stayed at the other locations. My favorite in Pongwe Beach Lodge, which has one of the most beautiful beaches on Zanzibar. I don't think there is much diving down that way, though.

I'll second Shay Tay's choice. I've been twice to Pongwe and would return in a heartbeat. Beautiful beach, kayaks free to borrow as well as bikes and games, totally uncrowded, great food, etc. The only thing missing is air conditioning but there is alway a cool breeze.

Matemwe Bungalows - on east side, is tidal, lovely beaches, no a/c; their upgraded Matemwe Retreat, w/ only 3/villas do have a/c, but at a price.

Shooting Star - also on each side, tidal, negatives as mentioned above; some people like, others find it rather shabby. Does have a/c

Ras Nungwi - on northern tip, least amount if any tidal issues, great for water activities near Mnemba atol; all with a/c; upgraded rooms have individual plunge pools

Z Hotel - the newest w/ a/c, also on the north, but seems lots of traffic across the property from non-guests passing thru.

All properties have ceiling fans even if no a/c. Some find fans sufficient for sleeping, satisfied only with whatever seabreeze... has to be your decision.

Benefit of being in north, if you wish other than resources of your hotel, there are nearby restaurants, bars, etc.

not familiar with those hotels...anyone know anything about the azanzi beach hotel (beaches/accomodations/service)?...allen