Mnemba Island

OVERVIEW

Relax and unwind on your stretch of beachfront, where simple yet luxurious bandas peep out onto unblemished sands from underneath the dappled shade of the casuarina pine forest. Thatched dining and bar areas boast beautiful open views of the beach and Zanzibar beyond.

They really do think of everything here; late breakfast trays teeming with tropical fruit, freshly-squeezed juice and Tanzanian coffee are delivered to the beach banda for those indulging in a lie-in, fresh sushi and chilled champagne appears discreetly at the loungers of those still on the beach at the magical hour of sunset, and romantic candlelit dinners are served with the water gently lapping your toes.

Each banda at Mnemba Island has direct access to the beach, with a covered walkway leading to a shuttered ensuite bathroom. Built-in barazas on the verandah call for an afternoon siesta with private beach salas for lounging.

Activities are largely water-based and great ways to discover a little more of the island. Snorkel the shallower coral reefs or kayak through the quiet waters protected by these reefs, paddling along the shoreline before heading out into deeper waters to meet up with some sea turtles. Glide effortlessly atop a stand-up paddle board spying dolphins frolicking below and the horizon in the distance.

Mnemba offers scuba diving courses for beginners and refreshers, with over 14 dive sites to choose from. To unwind, stretch and re-centre, there is plenty of yoga available with a private instructor, either in the privacy of your banda or against the backdrop of a clear, calm ocean.