5-Star Hotels in Pongwe

For a true taste of Zanzibar's quieter side, head to Pongwe. This stretch of coastline on the island's east offers a long, curving beach of soft white sand that feels wonderfully remote. The main draw here is the Pongwe tidal lagoon, a vast, shallow pool that appears at low tide, perfect for safe wading and spotting starfish. Days are spent swimming in the clear Indian Ocean, snorkeling the nearby reef, or taking a short trip to the traditional village of Pongwe itself to see local life away from the tourist trail.

Pongwe is ideal for couples and travelers seeking a relaxed, romantic escape, though families also appreciate the calm, shallow lagoon waters. It’s a place to disconnect, with a focus on beach time and nature. You’ll need a taxi from Zanzibar Airport or Stone Town, as it's about an hour's drive, but the journey through clove plantations and small villages is part of the experience. There’s no town center, so your hotel becomes your base.

On HOTEVI, you’ll find around 10 properties here, ranging from charming, locally-run guesthouses to a handful of intimate boutique hotels and a couple of full-service beach resorts. Accommodation tends to be small-scale and personal, often with direct beach access and restaurants that make the most of the daily catch.