"This smaller resort enjoys an amazing location at Pongwe Bay - a quiet, less touristy spot where we often had a long stretch of beach all to ourselves."
Kasia from United Arab Emirates
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"We had a wonderful week at Pongwe Bay."
DroomDecor from Netherlands
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"Our bungalow was very comfortable, and if you're looking for a quiet location where you can walk without sandals directly onto the beach, this is the place."
Simon
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4-star barefoot luxury resort on Pongwe Beach
Accommodations
Pongwe Bay Resort offers a selection of soundproof rooms with imported Italian mattresses and Egyptian cotton linens. Each room provides direct views of the lush gardens or the Indian Ocean, ensuring a serene environment. Junior Suites with private patios and beach access enhance the tropical experience.
Dining Options
The resort emphasizes organic dining, serving meals free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Guests can enjoy culinary experiences at The Club, situated on a 300-meter pier with over-water dining. The menu includes an all-day selection of seafood and local dishes.
Bare-Footing Philosophy
Pongwe Bay Resort is the only resort in Zanzibar following a Bare-Footing Philosophy, allowing guests to enjoy all areas without shoes. Pathways constructed with natural colored tarazu lead through the resort's beautifully landscaped gardens. This unique aspect encourages relaxation and connection to nature.
Wellness and Relaxation
The focus on wellness is evident in the quiet environment of the resort, free from televisions and unnecessary distractions. Spa services and wellness activities are available, promoting relaxation and health benefits. Lounge areas in tropical surroundings contribute to a tranquil experience.
Location
Pongwe Bay Resort is located on Pongwe Beach, known for its scenic coastline and crystal-clear waters. It is a 40-minute drive from Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich history and cultural diversity. Guests can explore local attractions and enjoy vibrant evening gatherings at Forodhani Gardens.
Highlights
Dining: Organic meals free of pesticides
Wellness: Soundproof rooms without televisions
Accommodations: Beachfront Junior Suites with private patios
Location: 40 minutes from Stone Town
“This resort excels in creating a serene barefoot luxury experience; I'm particularly drawn to its dedication to organic, locally-sourced cuisine. The location on Pongwe Beach allows for both relaxation and easy access to Zanzibar's cultural gems like Stone Town. For those seeking tranquility with a touch of adventure, this blends wellness with authentic island experiences.”
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
Select your room type
Pongwe Bay Resort offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Family Suite Garden
2 persons
85 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Air conditioning
Shower
room details
Beach Front Junior Suite
2 persons
45 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Junior Suite
2 persons
45 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Pongwe Bay Resort offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Private beach
Allergy-free rooms
Currency exchange
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Billiard tables
Yoga class
Sports trainer
Fishing
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Children's buffet
Board games
Children's play area
Game room
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Pedicure
Manicure
Body scrub
Back massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Pool with view
Room features
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
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Dining Onsite
At Pongwe Bay Resort, culinary delights await with Bahari Lounge, showcasing a harmonious blend of local and international flavors. Set against the backdrop of stunning ocean views, this family-friendly and romantic dining venue invites guests to indulge in diverse meal options while enjoying the serene charm of tropical island life.
Bahari Lounge
Local and International
Ambiance
A family-friendly setting with traditional and romantic touches, situated by the sea, offering both indoor and chill-out zone seating.
Key Offerings
Experience a delightful range of halal, kosher, and vegetarian options, complemented by breathtaking views of the African sunset over the water as you savor fresh tropical fruits.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 07:30 to 21:30.
Pongwe Bay Resort Location
10 Pongwe Road, Pongwe,
Explore Pongwe
Experience Pongwe
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Kiwengwa-Pongwe Forest Reserve
10-minute drive
A lush area rich in biodiversity, ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. Offers guided tours to learn about the local ecosystem.
Snorkeling Trips
10-minute drive
Exciting snorkeling adventures available near the coast. Rentals and guided tours are offered for various skill levels.
Yoga Sessions
10-minute drive
Relaxing beachside yoga classes for all levels available. Morning sessions help to rejuvenate before a full day.
Cobia
8-minute walk
Casual dining with fresh seafood and local dishes. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and unique island flavors.
The Zanzibar Musical Lounge
10-minute drive
A vibrant venue offering live music performances, especially on weekends, featuring local artists and genres.
Getting around
City Centre
Pongwe 18 min · 5000 ft
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ) 74 min · 30.3 mi
Julius Nyerere (DAR) 145 min · 59.7 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 13:00-22:00
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Italian, Hindi, Swahili
Number of rooms:
22
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Pongwe Bay Resort from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 370 verified reviews
8.9 /10
Great
93 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free WiFi
8.0/10
Location
8.4/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.5/10
Pros
Nice staff
Comfortable room
Top-notch food
High tide swimming
Cons
Strong tide
Expensive taxi
High prices
Isolated location
Guest reviews
based on 489 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Pongwe Bay Resort
I'm looking for accommodation suitable for a family of four, including two kids. Can you recommend a room option that meets these requirements?
15 January 2024
The Junior Suite Garden Room is recommended as it typically accommodates two adults and two children.
Is the private beach directly accessible from the resort, or will transportation be needed to get there?
22 January 2024
The resort features a private beach that is conveniently located next to the property.
If I choose to stay in a Junior Suite, can two adults and two children aged 9 and 6 stay comfortably in that room?
5 February 2024
The Junior Suite comes equipped with a double and a single bed. Unfortunately, an additional bed cannot be added to this room.
How is the shuttle pricing structured? Is it based on each individual passenger or the van as a whole?
18 February 2024
Shuttle pricing is based on the van rental, not on a per-person basis.
Are day safaris available to be arranged during a stay at the resort?
4 March 2024
Yes, day safaris can be organized while staying at the resort.
What time frame is typically considered the best for a relaxing beach vacation?
10 March 2024
Any time of the year can be ideal for a beach holiday; however, be mindful of the seasonal variations.
If I make a reservation but need to change my travel dates later, is that allowed?
15 April 2024
Yes, changing your reservation dates is possible, subject to availability.
Do all rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, and can special dietary needs, such as halal food, be accommodated?
22 April 2024
All rooms provide free Wi-Fi, and halal food options are available.
What kind of beach activities can guests participate in during their stay?
30 April 2024
Guests can enjoy various beach activities such as soccer, volleyball, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach bowling.
Is the resort located along a swimming beach, and are there any challenges with tides?
15 May 2024
The beach is indeed suitable for swimming, although low tides may affect accessibility at times.
Can accommodations be arranged for guests arriving late at night, and what is the transfer cost for larger groups?
20 May 2024
Late check-in is possible, and transportation for up to six people costs $60 one way.
Could you give me more information about the dining options available? Are there any set meal prices?
28 May 2024
Dinner prices start at $15 for mains, with a set menu option available for around $30. Half-board packages are also available.
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