Dhow Inn, Zanzibar

Dhow Inn Paje is a relaxed, stylish boutique hotel nestled on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar, ideal for couples, families and kite-surfing enthusiasts seeking a lively yet peaceful beachside retreat. The resort has a friendly, contemporary vibe with low-rise whitewashed buildings set among tropical gardens and thatched-roof lounges. Its main highlights are the private sandy beach, four shimmering pools tucked into lush greenery, several dining spots including a sushi bar and informal beachfront restaurant, and an on-site kite school. The location is perfect for water activities and village exploration in buzzing Paje.

The hotel offers 44 rooms in comfortable, modern styles, all thoughtfully designed for relaxation and convenience. Rooms open onto private furnished balconies or terraces, each with ceiling fans, air conditioning, safes, minibars (often stocked with complimentary items), complimentary bottled water, hairdryers and en-suite baths or showers. Rollaway cots are available for infants.

Standard double rooms are cosy and stylish, accommodating two adults with queen or king beds. They include bathrobes, satellite TV, a minibar, safe and private terrace. Modern showers or baths feature quality toiletries.

Superior double rooms offer slightly more space and may accommodate a third guest. Triple rooms include three single beds and are perfect for small groups or families, each equipped with the same amenities—air conditioning, terrace, minibar, safe and private bathrooms.

A network of four outdoor swimming pools is nestled among foliage and sun-loungers, creating a peaceful mosaic of water and shade. Two pools lie at the heart of the garden, one is adjacent to guest rooms, and the newest 25-metre pool offers lap swimming. Sunbeds and umbrellas are arranged around each pool, and fresh towels are provided.

The private beach is just steps away, with complimentary loungers, hammocks and towels. The hotel's beachfront area hosts table-volleyball and offers shaded sitting areas under makuti roofs, with sweeping views of the turquoise sea.

Dining options include a buffet restaurant serving international and local dishes in an airy, thatched-roof dining room; an à-la-carte beachfront venue allowing dinner with sand under your feet; and a dedicated sushi restaurant offering fresh sashimi and rolls. A laid-back lounge bar serves refreshing cocktails and drinks in a stylish atmosphere.

The spa offers full-service massages and wellness treatments in a tranquil setting. In-room massages are available on request. A small fitness area is accessible, alongside facilities to wash and store surf kit.

A well-equipped kite-surf school offers lessons and kit hire, capitalising on Paje’s perfect side-onshore winds. Guests can also enjoy organised snorkelling, diving, dolphin-watching trips, kayaking and sailing. Bicycle rental, beach volleyball and racquet sports provide further active options.

A boutique gift shop stocks local crafts and useful beach items. A small convenience store and café caters to daily needs. Guest services include a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping and turndown service, laundry and dry-cleaning, babysitting on request, luggage storage, free self-parking and a (surcharge) airport shuttle.

Dhow Inn blends laid-back elegance with active beachfront energy, offering warm hospitality, modern comfort and easy access to water sports and village life. It’s a lively haven for guests who want a polished yet authentic Zanzibar experience.