How many villas does The Palms Zanzibar have?

The Palms is known for operating with a very small number of villas — typically around six — which is a defining feature of the property's exclusive, intimate character.

Is The Palms suitable for families with children?

The Palms is a couples-and-adults-focused retreat; its intimate, quiet atmosphere and small size are best suited to those seeking seclusion rather than family-oriented facilities.

Palm trees and thatched umbrellas on the white sand of Paje Beach beside the turquoise Indian Ocean.

Where to Stay

The Palms Zanzibar

Exclusive southeast-coast boutique with a handful of private villas near Bwejuu, built around intimate service and high-end seclusion by the Indian Ocean.

Location and setting

The Palms Zanzibar sits on the southeast coast of the island near Bwejuu, a section of shoreline that curves gently between the active kitesurfing beach at Paje a few kilometres to the north and the quieter southernmost tip of the island. This part of the coast is among the least developed on Zanzibar, which is precisely its appeal: the beach here is wide, the palm groves run close to the water's edge, and there is very little in the way of commercial activity.

The property faces the Indian Ocean across a shallow reef flat that produces the characteristic turquoise-over-white-sand palette of the east coast. At high tide the water comes in close and is ideal for swimming; at low tide, the exposed reef flat invites exploration on foot.

The villas

The Palms operates with only a handful of private villas, making it one of the smallest luxury properties on the island by room count. Each villa is a standalone structure set among palm trees with its own veranda and direct access to the beach. The ratio of staff to guests that this scale allows is a core part of what the property is known for: service is attentive and personalised in a way that larger resorts cannot replicate.

Interiors are finished to a high standard with locally sourced materials and Swahili-influenced design details. The atmosphere is quiet throughout the day, oriented toward relaxation rather than entertainment programming.

Who it suits

The Palms is specifically suited to couples — particularly honeymooners — and individual travellers seeking seclusion and a high level of personal service. Its very small size means it can feel like a private retreat rather than a hotel. Guests who want organised activities, nightlife, or a lively social atmosphere would be better served by a property in Nungwi or a larger east-coast resort.

Getting there

The drive from Zanzibar Airport to the Bwejuu area takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes and covers a mix of sealed and unsealed road in the south-east of the island. Most guests arrange transfers in advance through the property.

Frequently asked questions

How many villas does The Palms Zanzibar have?: The Palms is known for operating with a very small number of villas — typically around six — which is a defining feature of the property's exclusive, intimate character.
Is The Palms suitable for families with children?: The Palms is a couples-and-adults-focused retreat; its intimate, quiet atmosphere and small size are best suited to those seeking seclusion rather than family-oriented facilities.