Escape to Sultan Sands, where tropical bliss meets luxury. Unwind on the pristine white sand beach, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or enjoy snorkeling and kayaking. Savor delicious meals at Mwambao restaurant or sip cocktails at one of two beach bars.
Reviews
8.68.6 out of 10
Excellent
Popular amenities
Pool
Free breakfast
Spa
Airport transfer
Free parking
Free WiFi
Main amenities (12)
Daily housekeeping
On the beach
Restaurant and 2 beach bars
3 outdoor pools
Outdoor tennis court
Children's pool
Bar/lounge
Spa services
Massage/treatment rooms
Children's club
Conference center
Business center
Feel at home (6)
Children's pool
Children's club
Playground on site
Private bathroom
Separate sitting area
Television
The current price is $217
$217
$285 total
includes taxes & fees
May 22 - May 23
Why we love this property
Beach paradise on tap
Dive into this hotel's white sand beach. Take a snorkeling trip, paddle a kayak, or sip cocktails at one of two beach bars.
Business by the beach
Tackle projects in the business center, then hit the tennis court or beach bars. Spa services and massage await after productive meetings.
Oceanfront dining
Experience ocean-view dining at this hotel's restaurant. A bar adds to the culinary options. The free buffet breakfast ensures a perfect morning start.
PO BOX 3276,KIWENGWA, NORTH EAST COAST, Kiwengwa, Unguja North Region
What's nearby
Kiwengwa Beach - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
Muyuni Beach - 16 min drive - 11.5 km
Slave Market - 49 min drive - 45.5 km
Kendwa Beach - 56 min drive - 36.4 km
Nungwi Beach - 56 min drive - 37.9 km
Getting around
Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 74 min drive
Airport pick-up service
Restaurants
The Green & Grill - 8 min drive
Mzee Husa Restaurant - 14 min drive
Andiamo - 8 min drive
Zanziblue - 14 min drive
Yako - 3 min drive
About this property
Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa
At Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa, you'll have access to onsite snorkeling and kayaking. 3 outdoor pools provide a splash of fun, while guests in the mood for pampering can indulge in massages, facials, and body treatments. The restaurant is a great spot for a bite to eat and cold drinks are served at the pub. Other highlights at this luxurious hotel include 2 beach bars, an outdoor tennis court, and a children's pool.
All inclusive
All-inclusive room rates at Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa are available. These rates are higher because they include onsite food and beverages in the room rate (some restrictions may apply).
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
76 rooms
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 16
Check-out time is 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
DONE
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
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
Minimum check-in age is 16
DONE
Children
Children's club
DONE
Pets
No pets or service animals allowed
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi and wired internet access in public areas
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free onsite self parking
DONE
Transfers
Airport pickup on request (available 24 hours)*
DONE
Other information
Designated smoking areas
Property amenities
Food and drink
Free buffet breakfast each morning 7:00 AM–10:00 AM
2 beach bars
Restaurant
Bar/lounge
Snack bar/deli
Traveling with children
Children's club
Children's pool
Playground
What to do
On the beach
Tennis
Kayaking
Snorkeling
Shopping
Pool table
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Working away
Business center
Conference center
Services
24-hour front desk
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Dry cleaning/laundry services
Hair salon
Luggage storage
Wedding services
Bicycle rentals
Pool umbrellas
Facilities
38 buildings/towers
Safe-deposit box at front desk
Garden
Terrace
Television in common areas
Mosquito nets
3 outdoor pools
Arcade/game room
Spa services
Outdoor tennis court
Massage/treatment rooms
Banquet hall
Room amenities
Be entertained
32-inch TV
Home comfort
Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
Ceiling fan
Minibar
Electric kettle
Window screens
Sleep well
Turndown service
Premium bedding
Memory foam mattress
What to enjoy
Separate sitting area
Freshen up
Private bathroom
Rainfall showerhead
Shower only
Hair dryer
Towels
Stay connected
Free WiFi
Phone
Food and drink
Free bottled water
More
Daily housekeeping
In-room safe
Access via exterior corridors
Special features
Spa
Guests can pamper themselves by indulging in the onsite spa services. There are massage/treatment rooms available. Services include facials and body treatments.
Dining
Mwambao - Onsite restaurant.
Kivuli Bar N Restaurant - Overlooking the ocean, this restaurant serves lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. Open daily.
Mawimbi bar / Lounge - This pub overlooks the pool. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. 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
New Year's Eve (December 31) Gala Dinner per adult: USD 90
New Year's Eve (December 31) Gala Dinner per child: USD 45 (from 2 to 12 years old)
Optional extras
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of USD 78 per vehicle. Maximum occupancy 5
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.
This property does not have elevators.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit on site.
This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club
Cashless transactions are available.
Also known as
Sultan Sands
Sultan Sands Island Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Island Resort
Sultan Sands Island Resort Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Island Hotel Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Island Resort Zanzibar/Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Island
Sultan Sands Island Resort Zanzibar Island/Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Resort Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Resort
Sultan Sands Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands
Sultan Sands & Spa Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa Hotel
Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa Kiwengwa
Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa Hotel Kiwengwa
Frequently asked questions
Is there a pool at Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa?
Yes, there are 3 outdoor pools and a children's pool.
Are pets allowed at Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa?
Sorry, pets and service animals aren't allowed.
Is parking offered on site at Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa?
Yes, there's free self parking.
Is airport shuttle service offered by Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa?
Yes, a shuttle from the airport to the hotel is available. The charge is USD 78 per vehicle.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa?
Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Contactless check-in and check-out are available.
What is there to do at Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa and nearby?
Have fun with onsite activities like kayaking and snorkeling, and practice your swing on the tennis courts. Enjoy a swim in one of the 3 outdoor swimming pools or use the hotel's other amenities, which include 2 beach bars and spa services. Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa also has an arcade and a garden.
Are there restaurants at or near Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa?
Yes, Mwambao offers ocean views.
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Reviews
Reviews
8.6
Excellent
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.More informationOpens in a new window
9.0
Cleanliness
7.0
Location
8.6
Staff & service
8.2
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 17, 2024
We enjoyed!
A last minute booking that really delivered. There was an actual beautiful beach to walk on. Exceptional entertainment, variety and flavorful food, great staff.
Nancy
Nancy, 1-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
Aug 30, 2025
The hotel could use some updating, as the rooms feel quite old-fashioned. While some staff were friendly, service was inconsistent — I had to ask multiple times for drinks.
Tia
Tia, 10-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 4, 2022
Amazing, lovely place to stay.
David
David, 4-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Nov 9, 2022
It is amazing hotel, cosy and sweet…
nena
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 2, 2026
Tutto okay
Mirko
Mirko, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 11, 2025
Hotel molto bello, immerso nella vegetazione. Personale molto gentile.Kevin,Fatma,Husna,Juma,Mohamed,Happy,Ochieng.
Paolo
Paolo, 7-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 3, 2022
Everything was really nice.
Jakub
Jakub, 8-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Nov 7, 2021
Positiv: Das Hotel hat eine überschauliche Grösse, hat einen schönen Pool und ist sehr sauber. Das Personal war sehr freundlich und zuvorkommend. Unser Strandbungalow war schön und sauber. Die tägliche Reinigung war top und am Abend wurde sogar das Moskitonetz vorbereiter. Die Klimaanlage funktionierte tadellos.
Negativ: Es wäre schön gewesen, hätte es eine Broschüre mit Angaben zur Anlage etc. im Zimmer gehabt. Das Essen war insgesamt ein wenig eintönig. Zum Frühstück gab es z.B. leider nur zwei verschiedene Toastbrote und keine Brötchen (die gab es erst zum Mittagessen) und auch nur eine Sorte Marmelade). Der Weg ins Meer war sehr mühsam, da man von Verkäufern teilweise bis ins Wasser verfolgt wurde.
Sirko
Sirko, 8-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Nov 4, 2021
J’ai apprécié la vue
Samia
Samia, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 3, 2021
Merveilleux séjour, personnel aux petits soins et bienveillants. ABSOLUMENT rien à redire, tout était parfait!
LUCIE
LUCIE, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Aug 16, 2021
Top rapport qualité prix
Personnel extrêmement accueillant et à l'écoute. Nous avons passé un excellent séjour :)
Lasana
Lasana, 7-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Aug 1, 2021
Friends
We had a fun stay at Sultan Sands. It was very beautiful and the service was good. The location does feel a bit way from things and locals on the beach prevent any swimming or relaxation because of the constant selling.
Verified traveler
5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 27, 2021
Great Stay, looking forward to return one day
Fantastic Stay!, comfortable, polite staff, Spa was amazing , Food was excellent and accommodating for Food Intolerances. Some of the Sunbeds could do with being improved, Cider, Rose and Procecco on the AI menu would be be a great Addition :)
Michelle
Michelle, 6-night trip
Verified
6/10 Good
Jan 12, 2021
Not a 5* hotel, but nice location and beach
Hotel is NOT a 5* as shown on hotels.com
Hotel is 4* so check again before book
I paid for 5* but I realized soon that its not the case. Dinner mediocre boring food buffet, some fish and some beef cooked for guests but nothing special. I ended up eating pasta 3 days in a row.
No wine list, only one available lager beer.
Breakfast had limited options, Juices not fresh, some deserts were ok.
Pool service not available. When asked for some food at the pool around 15-15:30 bcz our kids were starving they sent us to go to next hotel. When we asked for advertised kids room they sent us to next hotel. Even spa massage etc are done in next hotel (Blue bay). Only option at pool was to stand in line with all the ALL inclusive guests to order something.
Asked for baby crib twice, reception said they had no cribs available (too many families) but later a cleaning lady saw my wife with babyand offered to bring a crib
Expect some locals to try sell trips/coconuts/souvenirs on the beach, but for me its part of the experience, so nothing to worry, just smile and avoid them. Security always around so not worries.
Wifi was not good in room, but worst was that our room was connected with next room by a locked door, so we could hear almost all noise from next door guests.
Live music everynight and good atmosphere in general ! Personal was happy to help and with smile. When asked at receptiona at checkout about not being a 5* as advertised, they ignored me unfortunately...
Emmanouil
Emmanouil, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Dec 23, 2019
La gentillesse et le sourire du personnel. L'excellente et succulente cuisine qui variait sensiblement chaque jour, sa propreté. L'entretien parfait du lieu, du sable sur la plage de l'hôtel, du gazon, des arbres et arbustes du site. Orchestres et groupes de danses, chaque soir.
Il y manquait un service de shuttle à la demande de l'hôtel vers le village, un bancomat pour y retirer de l'argent….
Verified traveler
13-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 21, 2019
Property and location are both great. Really enjoyed our stay. All staff and bar tenders was amazing. Dass really went out of his way to ensure our stay was extra amazing.
Verified traveler
4-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 8, 2019
Great hotel, in a very beautiful location and lovely staff. We stayed there for six days and didn't want to leave! From the check in to check out, everyone was there to make sure we had a fantastic holiday and they always had a smile for us. Fantastic beach and really good evenings shows. Would definitely go back to Sultan Sands in Zanzibar. Thank you very much everyone and Special thanks to Dass!
Pradeep
Pradeep, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 13, 2019
Very nice rooms, food and nice staffs
Nice beach we enjoyed,a lot
Verified traveler
2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 6, 2019
Sultan Sands Stay
Our stay at Sultan Sands was nothing short of amazing. The service was exceptional. Dass, went over and above to ensure we had a good stay. We travelled with elderly people and the rooms provided were perfect for them to walk to and from the beach and/pool area.
On an all inclusive package, the food was good and a huge variety of food everyday.
The beach area is beautiful and sitting on the pool loungers on the beach was ideal to unwind.
The location is also very good. Not too many tourists but at the same time it's not in the middle of no where. The snorkeling Centre on the resort makes it so convenient to travel out.
We were particularly impressed with the service and value for money.
Only suggestion would be is to have a kettle in the room for those who would like to have tea in the confort of there room.
On the whole, a really nice place to stay at where you will get exceptional service and value for your money.
Sameera
Sameera, 4-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 6, 2019
Sultan sands! Fantastisk!
Fantastisk upplevelse! God mat , underbar service!
Verified traveler
5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
May 7, 2019
We chose Sultan Sands for a 6 day family trip to Zanzibar. It did not disappoint! The hotel itself was amazing, beach was pristine but most of all the service was exceptional. All the staff were amazing but Dass Bangar (Resort Manager) truly went above and beyond. He was kind enough to provide a room closer to the beach for my elderly parents and happily catered for a vegetarian and a vegan in the group. That was just the tip of the iceberg when it came to exceptional service. Our family holiday would not have been the same without his constant care and attention. From all the Surani/Shah family... Thank you for a holiday experience we will never forget.
Jilna
Jilna, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 26, 2019
a recomander
tres bon aceuil buffet diversifie et copieux plage de reve sous les cocotier lagon protegant des courants de ocean personnel souriant
richard
richard, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Dec 23, 2018
Good property with Amazing staff. The breakfast and dinner buffet was good and for the three nights I stayed in Sultan Sands, the food never felt repeated. The beach is neat and clean. Recommended.
Fahad
Fahad, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Oct 21, 2018
Schönes Hotel direkt am Strand, abhängig von Gezeiten, schöner weißer Sanstrand, schönes türkisfarbenes Meer jedoch mit Seegras und Seeigeln
Verena
Verena, 7-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 15, 2018
Perfect for a week relaxing in Zanzibar
We stayed all-inclusive (good choice given the drinks prices) All the staff were really laid back – sometimes maybe a little too much but just go with it and chill – after all it’s what you are there for.
We had a lovely garden room. They are semi’s. Ours was quiet but I guess it depends on who’s next door. The TV had lots of channels including 3 film channels in English. The shower leaked & the bathroom floor got quite wet. There was a fridge in the room & we were left a large bottle of water each day in the room. The room had both two pin and English plug sockets.
Generally the food was pretty good – plenty of choice even for me as a vegetarian. Except Saturday night pool side buffet night was bad. It was all outside and cold. The entertainment was pretty low key which was great for us. Mostly just a band playing by the pool and some background music. The second week they did aqua aerobics in the pool which was loud & slightly annoying – we’d gone there to relax.
The resort is pretty small & if full would be a bit cramped. Sunbeds are close together and the bars can get busy.
The beach boys can get a bit tiresome. But if you just say hi & sorry you are not interested they are not too bad. Do take beach shoes – The beach is lovely – soft white sands but there are spikey urchins etc that could cause injury!
When we arrived we were the only Brits – it was mostly German. Everyone was friendly but the Manager was English & all the staff spoke English so I don't know why?