Bawe Island Zanzibar
An exclusive luxury resort on a private island near Stone Town, Zanzibar, offering unparalleled tranquility and service.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tropical climate, always warm
Bawe Island Zanzibar
Best Time
Tropical climate, always warm
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An exclusive luxury resort on a private island near Stone Town, Zanzibar, offering unparalleled tranquility and service.
"You arrive as a guest and leave as family!"
Book resort transfers
Arrange your boat transfer from Stone Town with the resort for a seamless arrival. :ferry:
Pack for luxury
Bring elegant resort wear and swimwear for your exclusive island experience. :dress:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Beaches & Turquoise Waters
Surrounding Bawe Island
Immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. Perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Luxury Villas with Private Pools
Bawe Island Resort
Indulge in exclusive villas featuring private pools and breathtaking ocean views.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
Reefs around Bawe Island
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse fish species. A must-do for underwater enthusiasts.
Spectacular Sunset Views
Western side of Bawe Island
Witness magical sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors. Unforgettable romantic moments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Escape: Getting There
Luxury & Exclusivity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book resort transfers
Arrange your boat transfer from Stone Town with the resort for a seamless arrival. :ferry:
Pack for luxury
Bring elegant resort wear and swimwear for your exclusive island experience. :dress:
Embrace the tranquility
This private island is perfect for unwinding. Disconnect and recharge in peace. :zzz:
Gourmet dining awaits
Savor delicious international and Italian cuisine, including highly-praised tiramisu. :ice_cream:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book resort transfers
Arrange your boat transfer from Stone Town with the resort for a seamless arrival. :ferry:
Pack for luxury
Bring elegant resort wear and swimwear for your exclusive island experience. :dress:
Embrace the tranquility
This private island is perfect for unwinding. Disconnect and recharge in peace. :zzz:
Gourmet dining awaits
Savor delicious international and Italian cuisine, including highly-praised tiramisu. :ice_cream:
Snorkel the reefs
Explore the vibrant underwater world around the island. Bring your own gear or rent. :fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bawe Island Resort is lauded as a breathtaking piece of heaven on earth, offering unparalleled luxury, tranquility, and exceptional service. Guests rave about the beautifully decorated villas, gourmet cuisine, and the attentive staff who make every stay unforgettable. While it's a premium-priced destination, the unique experience of privacy and pampering makes it a highly recommended escape.
"Although we only stayed for a couple of nights, we had a wonderful stay at Bawe Island! This luxury hotel is fairly new and the rooms are beautifully decorated. The food was delicious and the staff made sure we felt very welcome. We were left pleasantly surprised at how quiet and peaceful the little island was - perfect for recharging your battery!
Highly recommend the hotel and thanks to all the staff who made our stay special!
Petru & Aurelia"
Doina Ceban
"I received the trip to Bawe Island as a birthday surprise from my husband. What can I say... simply breathtaking – this little island near Zanzibar is truly a piece of heaven on earth. Roberto and his team leave nothing to be desired.
Wonderful beach and cliffs, our sunset villa was a dream – very tidy and clean, with so much love for detail.
Gourmet cuisine: international dishes and fantastic Italian food! By the way, they have the world’s best tiramisu ♡
So much kindness from the staff – always attentive, helpful, and immediately there when needed. Each villa has its own butler, the bar team fulfills every cocktail wish, and the service staff is just lovely, making sure nothing is missing. The spa team caters to individual needs and guarantees pure relaxation.
Every evening there was music or entertainment – amazing artists and acrobats. It’s something you simply have to experience.
Bawe Island – you arrive as a guest and leave as family!
Thank you to Roberto and his entire team – we will never forget this vacation!"
V H
"By far the best hotel we have stayed at. We had the most incredible experience , you get your own butler who is at your service with anything you require. Ask for Beno, he was great!
The place makes you feel like you’re in the Maldives with the incredibly styled and spacious Villas.
If you’re looking for a quiet destination with beautiful surroundings and great service, this is the place for you. The staff are happy and go above and beyond.
The only minor downside is that everything on the island is very expensive including excursions off/around the island, but it is expected in such a beautiful private island."
David Cohen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bawe Island is a short, approximately 15-minute boat ride from Stone Town, Zanzibar. The resort typically arranges this transfer for guests, ensuring a convenient and scenic journey to your private island escape. 
While Bawe Island is a private resort, some snorkeling tours may circle the island's reefs without landing. Direct day trips to the island itself are generally not offered as it's an exclusive resort.
Zanzibar is accessible via Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) with flights from various international and regional hubs. From the airport, you can arrange transport to Stone Town for your onward journey to Bawe Island.
Yes, Bawe Island boasts a landing platform for helicopters, offering a fast and luxurious transfer option for guests seeking ultimate convenience.
The boat transfer is a quick and pleasant journey across the turquoise waters, offering initial glimpses of Zanzibar's stunning coastline and the approach to Bawe Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bawe Island is primarily a luxury resort. Entry is typically for guests staying at the resort. If you are interested in snorkeling around the island, inquire with local tour operators about boat trips that may pass by.
As a resort, Bawe Island is accessible to its guests 24/7. However, activities and services like dining and spa treatments will have their specific operating hours.
There are no specific entrance fees for the waters surrounding Bawe Island, but any organized snorkeling tours will have their own pricing.
It is highly recommended to have a reservation as Bawe Island is an exclusive resort. Walk-in access is generally not permitted to maintain the guest experience.
Bookings are made directly through the Bawe Island Resort or through authorized travel partners. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white-sand beaches, luxurious villas with private pools, and the breathtaking sunset views. The island's natural beauty and exclusive ambiance offer endless photographic opportunities.
Yes, drone footage is possible and often showcases the island's secluded beauty and expansive ocean views. Some content creators have shared impressive aerial shots.
A good quality camera or smartphone with excellent low-light capabilities is recommended for capturing sunsets. Waterproof gear is useful for snorkeling shots.
While generally encouraged, be mindful of guest privacy when photographing. The resort may have specific guidelines regarding professional photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday provides bright, clear shots of the water.
🎫 🐠 Snorkeling & Activities
The coral reefs surrounding Bawe Island are excellent for snorkeling, offering a chance to see diverse fish species. While you might not land on the island itself, the waters around it are rich with marine life.
It's a good idea to bring your own snorkeling gear for comfort and fit, but many resorts and tour operators also provide equipment for rent or use.
Guests can enjoy relaxing at the spa, dining under the stars, riding bicycles around the island, and simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Evening entertainment with artists and acrobats is also featured.
While the focus is on relaxation and luxury, the clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Inquire with the resort about any other available water-based activities.
Diving opportunities are likely available in the waters around Zanzibar. Bawe Island's reefs are particularly noted for snorkeling, but diving centers can advise on nearby dive sites.
🎫 💰 Pricing & Value
Yes, Bawe Island is considered a luxury destination, and prices for accommodation, dining, and excursions are on the higher side, reflecting its exclusive nature.
Typically, luxury resort stays include accommodation, often with private pools and butler service. Dining and specific activities may be extra, so it's best to check the resort's package details.
Excursions off or around Bawe Island can be quite expensive, which is common for private island resorts. Budget accordingly for any additional activities.
The value lies in the unparalleled luxury, privacy, exceptional service, and breathtaking natural beauty. It's an experience for those seeking a high-end, tranquil escape.
Bawe Island is designed as a luxury resort, so budget-friendly options are not its primary offering. It caters to travelers looking for an exclusive and premium experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💸 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Honeymooners
+1 Enjoy gourmet dining under the stars, personalized butler service, and the ultimate tranquility. The resort's intimate setting ensures a memorable and special experience for couples celebrating milestones or simply seeking a peaceful retreat together. ✈️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bawe Island Resort Experience
It boasts a limited number of villas, ensuring privacy and an intimate atmosphere. Each villa is designed for comfort and style, often featuring private pools and butler service, creating a personalized and pampered experience for guests. The resort emphasizes barefoot luxury, blending high-end amenities with the natural beauty of the island.Guests consistently praise the exceptional service provided by the attentive staff. Many reviews highlight specific individuals who went above and beyond to make their stay memorable, from butler service to personalized attention from the bar and spa teams.
While the experience is undeniably luxurious, it comes with a premium price tag. Visitors note that everything on the island, including excursions, is quite expensive.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling Around Bawe Island
The clarity of the water is frequently mentioned, enhancing the underwater viewing experience.While Bawe Island itself is a private resort and landing might not be permitted for non-guests, the surrounding reefs are accessible. Travelers have reported great snorkeling experiences around the island's reefs.
The marine life observed can range from colorful reef fish to other fascinating underwater creatures, offering a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Indian Ocean. The combination of clear waters, healthy corals, and abundant marine life makes snorkeling around Bawe Island a highly recommended activity for those visiting the area.
Capturing the Magic: Photography on Bawe Island
+1 The island's natural, wild beauty is a constant source of inspiration, from lush vegetation to the expansive ocean vistas.One of the most sought-after photographic moments is the sunset. The sunsets here are described as 'unfairly magical,' painting the sky with vibrant hues that create unforgettable scenes.
Capturing these moments, perhaps from a sunset villa or a prime vantage point on the beach, is a must-do for visitors. Aerial photography, often captured by drones, also showcases the island's secluded paradise and its integration with the surrounding ocean.Beyond the landscapes, the luxurious villas with their private pools offer chic and aspirational photo opportunities.
+1 The attention to detail in the resort's design and the impeccable service also lend themselves to capturing the essence of a high-end, tranquil vacation. Remember to be mindful of guest privacy while capturing the island's beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit