Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

Funny as it sounds, there really is a Zanzibar less traveled: its less-developed southeastern shore, to be specific, some distance from Stone Town and the more established tourist industry. It’s hardly undeveloped — the resorts have been gaining ground for some time — but they tend to have more than enough breathing room, and perhaps more importantly, beaches of their own. Such is Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa, a name which squeezes all its attractions into one delicious mouthful.

Let’s take them in order. The sands are indeed white, gradually transitioning to lush tropicalia as one proceeds inland, passing eleven roomy villas along the way. Size and privacy are the keywords here, enough that a freestanding outdoor tub and a private pool can be comfortably concealed. Then there's the spa, which takes full advantage of locally sourced products, incorporating seaweed, coconut, and Zanzibar’s renowned spices into its treatment offerings.

It’s a safe bet those figure large in the cuisine as well: Doors to Zanzibar plates poolside Tanzanian fusion with delectable emphasis on the hotel’s own organic fruits and vegetables. The bars present a narrative of sorts — start with cocktails and snacks on the beach, transition to the lounge bar for a second act, then perch yourself at the rooftop champagne bar for a sunset to write home about. And come sunrise, an impressive slew of activities awaits at the hotel’s own watersports center, Zanzibar Kite Paradise, a subtle nod to the region’s ideal kitesurfing conditions.

How to get there: Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is just over an hour's drive from Zanzibar International Airport.

Please note: Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a small property with only 11 rooms.