This unpretentious boutique resort sits in the village of Bwejuu on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, on a vast stretch of beach where fishermen haul in their catch on traditional wooden boats. It’s easy and honest; a comfortable timeout for those seeking powdery white sand, without the boisterous party venues and high prices you often find in this popular corner of the island.
Contemporary in design, it is most popular with 30- to 60-something couples, but it’s also effortlessly accommodating to families (children are welcome, and there's a kids' corner with toys and games). The spacious, airy guest bungalows have lounges and outdoor bathrooms, and some have 2 bedrooms; there are also simpler rooms in the main building for those on a budget. The restaurant serves tasty fare, with an appropriate emphasis on fresh fish and seafood; a few steps away sparkles the alluring infinity pool, and there’s a tented cabana for holistic massages. In the background a hip, chilled-out playlist quietly thrums along, coaxing you into a lazy bliss of books, strolls, rests and dips. Kitesurfing, diving and snorkelling are the go-to activities for those who can muster the energy, and excursions to Stone Town and elsewhere are easily arranged.
Highs
- The lovely, palm-fringed beach - quieter than many in southeast Zanzibar, and voted one of the world's top 10 by Conde Nast Traveler
- A friendly and uncomplicated vibe that put us instantly at ease
- Expansive ocean views from all but one bungalow, and most open straight onto the sand
- Cool and comfortable chill-out areas, plus a glistening infinity pool
- Tasty seafood at the restaurant, set under the shade of a breezy Bedouin tent
Lows
- No air conditioning (though you do get a ceiling fan), and the open-air bathrooms are hot in the middle of the day
- WiFi in communal areas only and it can be slow, but you’re here to forget the outside world
- Dinners have a set menu, but dietary requirements are easily catered for
- The sea can retreat a long way during low tide which can make swimming tricky and high tide can leave rubbish and debris on the sand
- Full pre-payment required before arrival, plus a 5% surcharge for credit-card payments
Best time to go
Zanzibar is best visited from June to mid-October (a spectacular time, with warm but comfortable temperatures) and mid-December to mid-April (hot but often stiflingly humid). These are also the best times for kitesurfing. Diving is best in March. The island experiences 2 rainy seasons, with heavy showers from mid-April to mid-May, and lighter ‘short rains’ during November.
You might want to check the dates of Ramadan, when food and alcohol aren’t served outdoors, and some bars/restaurants close altogether (most notably in Stone Town, although extra respect is expected throughout). This will not affect you within the confines of Indigo Beach Zanzibar.
You might want to check the dates of Ramadan, when food and alcohol aren’t served outdoors, and some bars/restaurants close altogether (most notably in Stone Town, although extra respect is expected throughout). This will not affect you within the confines of Indigo Beach Zanzibar.
Our top tips
Make sure you try the hotel's spicy local twist on margaritas: delicious. The signature Indigo Beach cocktail is excellent, too.