On the sun-kissed shores of Nakupenda Beach, Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a tranquil retreat. Unwind with a facial at the spa, lounge by the outdoor pool or indulge in seafood at one of two on-site restaurants. Enjoy free daily manager's reception and WiFi in your room.
VIP Access
Reviews
9.09.0 out of 10
Wonderful
Popular amenities
Spa
Airport transfer
Free parking
Free WiFi
Restaurant
Main amenities (12)
Daily housekeeping
On the beach
2 restaurants and bar/lounge
Full-service spa
Outdoor pool
Beach umbrellas
Beach sun loungers
Beach towels
Children's pool
Pool bar
24-hour room service
Coffee shop/cafe
For families (6)
Babysitting (surcharge)
Children's pool
Separate bathtub and shower
Premium TV channels
Garden
Terrace
The current price is CNY2,041
CNY2,041
CNY2,660 total
includes taxes & fees
May 27 - May 28
Why we love this property
Beach bliss
White sand shores await at this beachside hotel. Beach towels, umbrellas, and loungers provide comfort while nearby snorkeling and windsurfing offer adventure.
Work and play paradise
This hotel sits in the city center with a 24-hour business center and meeting room. After work, guests can enjoy the spa, poolside bar, and beach access.
Serene spa escape
A full-service spa offers daily indulgence with body scrubs, facials, and couples treatments. Garden views enhance this hotel's relaxing atmosphere.
At Zanzibar Serena Hotel, you can hit the beach to enjoy the shade from a beach umbrella or relax in a sun lounger, plus you'll be just steps from Nakupenda Beach. The outdoor pool is perfect for guests looking for a bit of fun, while those in the mood for pampering can visit the spa to indulge in massages, facials, and mani/pedis. Baharia Restaurant, one of 2 restaurants, offers ocean views and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A poolside bar, a children's pool, and a snack bar/deli are other highlights at this luxurious hotel. Fellow travelers say great things about the helpful staff.
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
51 rooms
Arranged over 3 floors
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in available
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Check-out time is 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
DONE
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 48 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after noon please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
DONE
Children
Babysitting*
DONE
Pets
No pets or service animals allowed
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free onsite self parking
Onsite parking includes off-street options
DONE
Transfers
Airport shuttle on request (available 24 hours)*
DONE
Other information
Designated smoking areas
Property amenities
Food and drink
2 restaurants
Bar/lounge
Poolside bar
Coffee shop
Private dining
Private picnics
Free daily reception
24-hour room service
Snack bar/deli
Traveling with children
Children's pool
Childcare in room (surcharge)
Lifeguard on site
What to do
On the beach
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horse riding nearby
Snorkeling nearby
Working away
24-hour business center
Meeting room
Conference space (621 square feet)
Services
24-hour front desk
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Dry cleaning/laundry services
Free newspapers in lobby
Luggage storage
Multilingual staff
Porter/bellhop
Bicycle rentals
Beach sun loungers
Beach towels
Beach umbrellas
Pool umbrellas
Romance packages
Facilities
1 building/tower
Safe-deposit box at front desk
Garden
Picnic area
Terrace
Library
Mosquito nets
An outdoor pool
Arcade/game room
Full-service spa
Massage/treatment rooms
Banquet hall
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
Wheelchair-accessible pool
Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
Room amenities
Be entertained
21-inch LCD TV
Premium satellite channels
Home comfort
Air conditioning
Minibar
Coffee/tea maker
Electric kettle
Bathrobes and slippers
Sleep well
Blackout drapes/curtains
Turndown service
Premium bedding
What to enjoy
In-room massage
Balcony
Individually furnished
Freshen up
Separate bathtub and shower
Designer toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Stay connected
Desk
Free WiFi
Phone
Food and drink
Champagne service
Free bottled water
More
Daily housekeeping
In-room safe (laptop compatible)
Special features
Spa
The onsite spa has 2 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include facials, body scrubs, body treatments, and manicures and pedicures. The spa is open daily.
Dining
Baharia Restaurant - Overlooking the ocean, this restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Terrace Restaurant - Overlooking the ocean, this restaurant specializes in seafood and serves dinner only. Reservations are required. Open daily.
Fees & policies
Mandatory fees
You'll be asked to pay the following charges by the property at check-in or check-out. Fees may include applicable taxes:
A tax is imposed by the city: USD 5.00 per person, per night
An effective city/local tax rate of 12.00 percent will be charged
Optional extras
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of USD 90800 per person (one-way)
Early check-in can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Children & extra beds
In-room babysitting is available for an extra charge
Policies
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
This property does not have elevators.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit on site.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club, Union Pay
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property. The policies listed are provided by the property.
Property Registration Number Z0000010668
Also known as
Hotel Serena Zanzibar
Serena Hotel Zanzibar
Serena Zanzibar
Serena Zanzibar Hotel
Zanzibar Serena
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Zanzibar Town
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Hotel Zanzibar Town
Frequently asked questions
Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, Zanzibar Serena Hotel does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?
Yes, there's an outdoor pool and a children's pool.
Are pets allowed at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?
Sorry, pets and service animals aren't allowed.
Is parking offered on site at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?
Yes, there's free self parking.
Is airport shuttle service offered by Zanzibar Serena Hotel?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is USD 90800 per person one-way.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?
Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: midnight. There's a charge for early check-in (subject to availability). Check-out time is 10:00 AM. Late check-out is available for a charge (subject to availability). Contactless check-in and check-out are available.
What is there to do at Zanzibar Serena Hotel and nearby?
Have fun with nearby activities like fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool. Zanzibar Serena Hotel also has an arcade and a picnic area, as well as a garden.
Are there restaurants at or near Zanzibar Serena Hotel?
Yes, there are 2 onsite restaurants, featuring seafood and ocean views.
Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, every room features a balcony.
What's the area around Zanzibar Serena Hotel like?
Zanzibar Serena Hotel is on Shangani Beach in Stone Town, a short 1-minute walk from Nakupenda Beach and 6 minutes' walk from Forodhani Gardens.
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Reviews
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Reviews
9.0
Wonderful
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
9.6
Cleanliness
9.4
Location
9.4
Staff & service
9.0
Property conditions & facilities
Guest review summary
What guests liked
The pool is clean, attractive, and large, offering a lovely experience for guests. (8 reviews)
Breakfast was plentiful, delicious, and had everything desired with excellent service. (7 reviews)
The hotel's beach location offers beautiful views and direct access to the ocean. (4 reviews)
From real guest reviews summarized by AI.
Popular mentions
Service staff
Room
Location
Food
Beach
Breakfast
View
Reviews
Verified
8/10 Very good
Apr 1, 2026
Nice place to stay. Nice location around to visit.
Antonio
Antonio, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 11, 2026
Amazing place, good location and nice staff
Sumaiya
Sumaiya, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 25, 2026
Perfect combination between town, beach and pool. Ideal location for walking excursions is Stone Town. Clean and comfy rooms overlooking the ocean, friendly and helpful staff all over the place.
Joachim
Joachim, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 26, 2026
Staff were lovely, the hotel is beautifully located on the ocean with a great pool. Lots of character
Eve
Eve, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 4, 2025
Great Stay
Wonderful hotel on the beach in Stone Town. Very friendly staff, excellent breakfast buffet. Nice views and pool.
Teresa
Teresa, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 13, 2025
Beautiful property, great service, delicious food!!
katherine
katherine, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 28, 2025
Hotel was marvelous - great location, fabulous views of the ocean and the friendliest staff we've ever had
Thomas
Thomas, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 16, 2025
The room was beautiful and very clean. Staff were very pleasant and helpful. The food was wonderful. And a great location for walking around Stone Town which was very safe. In all an excellent stay.
Catherine
Catherine, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 19, 2025
Beautiful property
Amazing Staff
Shoutout to David and the breakfast staff they are amazing!!
Nesan
Nesan, 4-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 17, 2024
Very friendly staff, beautiful hotel.
Nancy
Nancy, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 7, 2025
This is a lovely hotel in a historic building. It’s walking distance to all the sights of Stonetown. Our room was clean and comfortable. The balcony looked out to the Indian Ocean. Staff were very helpful and friendly, particularly the receptionist who helped us with booking our transfer to the airport at the end of our stay.
catriona
catriona, 2-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Sep 19, 2024
The location and pool were great. The restaurant food was excellent, free breakfast excellent. Pool service from Damian especially was fabulous.
Angela
Angela, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 27, 2023
Beautiful, historic property with amazing views. Everyone working there was friendly.
Aateqa
Aateqa, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 21, 2024
Great location, staff very courteous. I had a great room with a balcony facing the ocean. Very comfortable. Breakfast was plentiful and delicious.
Jane
Jane, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 28, 2024
Absolutely amazing!
I will definitely be back. Everyone treats you like family. Excellent service. Fabulous food.
Beautiful accommodations.
Diana
Diana, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 28, 2023
Excellent
Excellent service from the time we arrived to the time we left.
Verified traveler
2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 26, 2024
Fantastic Amazing
Excellent Service with excellent Friendly Staff
Bashir
Bashir, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 23, 2024
Property is immaculate. Staff are utterly courteous. The hotel itself is beautiful and carefully maintained.
Kara
Kara, 6-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 15, 2024
My third stay here! I love Zanzibar and love staying here. It's so convenient to everything and the staff are exceptional. Big Joe is always there to welcome us! And Johannes and Suliman also are great. Food is good, view is spectacular, rooms are big and have an "Old World" feel. I love it here!
Laureen
Laureen, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 28, 2023
Superbly helpful and friendly staff.
Located in a very central area….easy to walk to nearby attractions like Freddie Mercury house etc.
Plenty of taxis right outside the hotel.
Hotel staff very very friendly and helpful for organizing any tours/taxis.
Alka
Alka, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 11, 2023
Wonderful staff. Responsive and friendly. Charming room. Well furnished and cared for. Pool is clean and attractive.
Jean A
Jean A, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Feb 6, 2024
Great location
Excellent location next to the beach with a very nice pool. Shame the sea has some litter in it. The bar service around the pool is very slow. The young staff in particular need to learn more English and a sense of urgency. Stone town is very interesting but beware fake guides
Alastair
Alastair, 4-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
Jan 26, 2025
Really nice hotel - needs an upgrade
The hotel has a great location, and a really nice pool. But there are stairs to get everywhere. No elevators. The staff was exceptionally service minded - and helpful.
But we did not get any recognition for the Hotels.com membership - we should have gotten a bottle of wine and som discount on the VIP membership.
Lisbeth
Lisbeth, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 29, 2024
Lovely property in a quiet corner of Stonetown. Great swimming pool. Historic quality of hotel added a charming feel. Most rooms overlook the ocean. The amenities were complete and the room was very comfortable. Spend a little extra to get an outside balcony or verandah. The staff was wonderful and helpful. There are lots of restaurants nearby. I can't speak for the food at the on property restaurant since I had to leave early and skipped the breakfast. I would definitely stay here again on a Stonetown visit.
cindy
cindy, 1-night trip
Verified
4/10 Fair
Oct 18, 2024
The property is in a good location but is extremely tired and old fashioned. They are installing an elevator but this was right next to our room so very noisy works. The entire facilities need a major renovation. The staff were wonderful especially Johannes in the concierge.