Pemba Island is a magical place. A paradise of white sandy beaches, coral reefs and azure seas, it is the ideal place for an idyllic tropical holiday. The best places to stay in Pemba Island offer a real escape: whether you're looking for a simple beach hut or something a little more luxurious, the island has something for everyone.

Pemba Island lies just off the coast of Zanzibar, and is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago. It is only around 30 miles long, and is home to around 150,000 people. The island's main town is also called Pemba, and it is here that you'll find the ferry port and airport. The main town is also where you'll find the island's main market — a colourful affair selling everything from spices to live chickens. The island itself is lush and green, with beautiful beaches all along its coastline. Many are sheltered by offshore coral reefs, making them ideal for snorkelling and diving.

The best places to stay in Pemba Island provide the perfect base from which to explore this wonderful island or simply kick back and relax!

The best places to stay in pemba island

For an underwater room

• If you're looking for something completely unique then we recommend you book Manta Resort's underwater room. It may be eye-wateringly expensive, but it offers the chance to watch shoals of tropical fish float past without leaving the comfort of your bedroom! For lesser mortals there's a range of rooms and suites, plus sunset terrace where most meals are served, and an excellent PADI dive centre for beginners or experienced underwater explorers.

For a boutique stay

• Fundu Lagoon is a gorgeous little tented resort with just 16 thatched, tented rooms each with beautiful ocean view and direct beach access. Interiors are pared back, but romantic, with plenty of floaty muslin and enormous wooden beds. The food here is know as some of the best in Tanzania, plus there's a Fusion Spa, infinity pool with panoramic views and extensive watersports facilities including diving.

For a luxury resort

• The Aiyana offers luxury villas set on a beach facing the Indian Ocean. Beach-chic interiors feature whitewashed walls, carefully positioned driftwood and pops of colour from the soft furnishings. The best come with private pool too! Daily changing menus offer delicious dishes to be enjoyed wherever you wish and there are activites galore to choose from.

For a holiday villa

• If you'd prefer a self catering property, check out the selection with our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Pemba Island can be reached via Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar Airports. You could also take a ferry from either of these locations.
• If you wish to hire a car to explore more of the island, contact our partner, Rentalcars
• The best time to visit Pemba Island is during the dry season from July to early November and December to March, when average daily highs are around 30°C. It is best to avoid April and May as these are the rainiest months.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all our Zanzibar recommendations
• Look even further afield at our pick of the best places to stay in the whole of Tanzania
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly gurus for some personalised advice.