Breezes Beach Club & Spa

On the southeast coast of Zanzibar, this resort sits directly on a broad beach of pale sand facing the Indian Ocean. Rooms and suites are arranged in low, thatched-roof blocks set back from the shore among established gardens, each designed to keep the pace unhurried and the outlook on the water.

The stretch of coast here is known for its tidal range, with the beach at its widest at low tide, and the resort's spa and water sports centre both take advantage of the setting, offering treatments and activities such as windsurfing and diving excursions to nearby reefs. A choice of restaurants covers both international dishes and Swahili coastal cooking.

As one of the more established properties on this part of the island, it makes a straightforward base for beach days, with Stone Town and its markets within reach for a half or full-day excursion.