Matemwe, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Boutique Beach Hotel
Sunshine Marine Lodge, a serene five-star retreat perched on a cliff in the remote northern fishing village of Matemwe on Zanzibar's northeast coast, offers stylish Swahili-inspired bungalows with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Mnemba Atoll, celebrated as a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
The 28 rooms across eight eco-friendly bungalows immerse guests in tropical lushness, with furnished balconies overlooking vibrant gardens or the endless ocean horizon. Each space features mosquito nets, multiple fans for natural cooling, safety deposit boxes, kettles, daily bottled water, and tea and coffee facilities, paired with en-suite bathrooms equipped with showers. Three pristine pools, including a breathtaking infinity pool cascading toward the sea, provide tranquil spots for unwinding, while the Body & Mind Harmony Centre hosts yoga classes and mindfulness sessions amid the wild bush. A wooden jetty extends to the beach at low tide or directly into the sea at high tide, and complimentary bike tours invite exploration of the unspoiled surroundings.
Dining at Sunshine Marine Lodge blends local Zanzibari flavours with international touches at the oceanfront restaurant, where fresh seafood curries and spice-infused grilled meats share the menu with familiar global dishes. The Boat Bar crafts refreshing cocktails and light bites, ideal for savouring during sunset toasts. Guests at this sister property to Sunshine Bay enjoy complimentary shuttle access multiple times daily to a private beach with umbrellas, sun lounges, and an additional beach bar serving tropical drinks. Dive Point Zanzibar, the on-site PADI 5-Star certified centre, offers scuba diving and snorkeling excursions to the nearby Mnemba Atoll teeming with marine life, ensuring adventure pairs seamlessly with relaxation.
Nestled 55 km from Stone Town's historic vibrancy and 60 km from Zanzibar International Airport, with a 20-minute drive to Matemwe village, Sunshine Marine Lodge provides effortless access to Zanzibar's pristine atolls and cultural heart.