The Sands Beach Resort
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All properties in Dongwe

The Sands Beach Resort

No. 17 of Scenic Hotels in Zanzibar Archipelago
Pingwe Village Rd, Dongwe, Zanzibar South, Tanzania
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hotel overview picture
Highlights
Delicious breakfast
Lots to do
Free parking
Amenities
Outdoor swimming pool
Exclusive Beach Area
Diving
Snorkeling
Horse Riding
Spa
Massage Room
Private parkingFree
All amenities
Property Description
With a stay at The Sands Beach Resort Zanzibar in Dongwe, you'll be on the beach, within a 15-minute drive of Paje Beach and Dongwe Beach. This beach hotel is 7.4 mi (11.9 km) from Jambiani Beach and 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Bwejuu Beach.
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8.9/10
Very Good
Cleanliness8.9
Amenities8.9
Location8.9
Service8.9
All 76 reviews
Surroundings
Airport: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
(59.1km)
Landmarks: Rising Sun Diving Centre
(960m)
Landmarks: Blue Lagoon
(1.8km)
Landmarks: Soundscapes Zanzi
(2.3km)
Landmarks: Blue Palm Zanzibar
(3.8km)
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Overview

Rooms

Guest Reviews

Services & Amenities

Policies

8

Standard Bungalow

1 Double bed
Has window
Non-smoking
Air conditioning
Private bathroom
Refrigerator
Minibar
Room Details
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1

Standard Twin Room

2 Single bed
Has window
Non-smoking
Air conditioning
Private bathroom
Refrigerator
Minibar
Room Details
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11

Family Villa, Multiple Beds

1 King bed and 2 Single bed
Non-smoking
Air conditioning
Private bathroom
Refrigerator
Minibar
Room Details
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10

Luxury Two-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool

Bedroom 1:1 Single bed and 1 Queen bed
Non-smoking
Air conditioning
Minibar
Electric fan
Shampoo
Room Details
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7

Luxury One-Bedroom Villa with Sea View

1 Queen bed
Has window
Non-smoking
Air conditioning
Minibar
Ocean view
Electric fan
Room Details
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Guest Reviews

8.9/10
Very Good
76 reviews
Verified Reviews
  • Cleanliness8.9
  • Amenities8.9
  • Location8.9
  • Service8.9
Average for similar properties in Dongwe
Most Mentioned
A‍l‍i‍c‍e‍ ‍W
October 8, 2025
I’ve stayed at many resorts around the world, but The Sands Beach Resort ranks among the best. For my first time in Africa, I wanted a place that felt safe, genuine, and peaceful—and this boutique property delivered far beyond expectations. The resort has only about 20 villas, each surrounded by lush, tropical gardens that feel like a private oasis. The setting is serene, the beach pristine, and the tidal changes are fascinating to watch. Walking across the ocean floor at low tide was an unforgettable experience, full of color and marine life. The food was excellent—fresh, flavorful, and always prepared with personal attention. The chef even checked in daily to tailor meals to guests’ preferences. Every corner of the property felt cared for and loved. As a solo female traveler (later joined by my partner), I felt completely safe and supported. The staff were genuinely kind and professional—more like family than hotel employees. And then there’s John, the Guest Relations star. His warmth, positivity, and attention to detail transformed a great stay into something extraordinary. He anticipated every need, connected effortlessly with guests from all cultures, and made sure everyone left smiling. He is the heart of The Sands. If you’re looking for peace, authenticity, and personal connection rather than crowds or commercial chaos, this is your place. I would return in a heartbeat. Zanzibar is beautiful—but The Sands makes it unforgettable.
S‍a‍r‍a‍h‍ ‍N
September 3, 2025
I had an absolutely wonderful stay at this resort! From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel so welcomed and taken care of. The check-in process was smooth and quick, and I was pleasantly surprised by how friendly and professional everyone was.
k‍e‍l‍l‍y‍r‍o‍s‍s‍e‍t
July 21, 2025
We recently stayed at this hotel in a Family Villa and had an absolutely amazing experience. The villa was spacious, beautifully maintained, and spotlessly clean – a big thank you to the housekeeping team for doing such an outstanding job! The food throughout our stay was delicious, and the staff were incredibly attentive and friendly. We felt well taken care of at all times. The beach is stunning, with soft white sand and very comfortable sunbeds. We also appreciated the respectful and kind local vendors who offered souvenirs and excursions. We went on two fantastic trips with Ali – one to the Blue Lagoon for snorkeling and to see the starfish, and another for a reef walk where we discovered the wonders of the sea. These experiences were unforgettable and very well organized. They even made personalized bracelets with our daughter's name and a beautifully crafted wooden board – such lovely souvenirs to take home. The pool area is spacious and great for both swimming and playing, and the gardens throughout the property are beautifully maintained. We also enjoyed having lunch and cocktails at the beach bar – the perfect spot to relax. If we had to mention one small area for improvement, it would be the hairdryer in the bathroom, which could be replaced with a more powerful one. But honestly, everything else was absolutely perfect. We highly recommend this hotel for families and anyone looking for a relaxing, enjoyable stay. A heartfelt thank you to the entire staff for your kindness, professionalism, and constant smiles – you truly made our holiday special!
G‍u‍e‍s‍t‍ ‍U‍s‍e‍r
November 8, 2025
We have just finished our journey at The Sand and we already have nostalgia, an amazing location, few people, super "pampered" by a truly professional staff, a place for those looking for peace and relaxation, with unique cuisine, immersed in palm trees with a very white beach. The rooms are comfortable and are cleaned twice a day! Highly recommended place, we will definitely be back. Don't miss the breathless sunsets.
G‍u‍e‍s‍t‍ ‍U‍s‍e‍r
November 6, 2025
This IS Paradise Paradise on Earth does Exist at the The Sands Beach Resort on Dongwe Beach...I know from experience as me and my partner just returned as guests of this amazing resort hotel for 8 glorious nights and 9 amazing days. We began each day at 7 am: sipping on fresh brewed African coffee and watching the sunrise from our villa balcony viewing amongst one of the most dramatically beautiful island coastlines on the entire planet! If you're lucky the helpful and colorful Maasai tribe people on internship from the Tanzania mainland will take you on a journey through low tide exploration of marine life. It is like walking inside a huge aquari and totally safe and other worldly... def NatGeo worthy. People that criticize the beach do not do their research and realize that this beach experiences a rare earthly marvel twice daily!! TWO humongous shifts from high tide to low tide. The sea shimmers the most beautiful colors of the Indian Ocean in all its beauty. Lol, don't miss the point of this location...it is amazing and very secluded. The service of the hotel is 5 star, from front desk check-in with Khakiem and continued excellent service from Hassan and the entire FD team.  Also amazing daily restaurant service from Christopher and the entire restaurant team. Dinner each night was varied and 'Michelin Star-worthy' quality led by Chef Edgar and his entire team and Cassiano and his team kept the drinks flowing. Almost every night there was a different theme, and substantially large fresh fish caught daily and many nights prepared and grilled right near your table by the Chef: Imagine one night Blue Marlin, next night Jackfish, next night Dorado, the following night Tuna cooked on the grill to your liking, etc.  You get the message...simply amazing!  One night even a traditional Swahili buffet with live music and performance!!   John head of Guest Relations GR pays amazing detailed attention to all of his guests, and truly makes you feel that you are the most important person on a truly amazing getaway vacation. People came and went as we were there for 9 days and the average stay is 3 or 4 nights -- but we saw this hotel completely full on a few nights and you still felt like you were the only guests on the property. And the massages by Diane. Omg...I am healed. If given the chance we will be back for another amazing restful welcoming stay at The Sands Beach Resort Zanzibar.
D‍e‍p‍a‍r‍t‍u‍r‍e‍6‍6‍2‍2‍4‍6‍6‍8‍5‍7‍6
September 1, 2025
We had an amazing first trip to Zanzibar and stay at the Sands. The food, the views and the company was great - we loved John who was so helpful and nice, as well as Cassiano who made great drinks! We travelled a long way from the United States and would recommend!
G‍u‍e‍s‍t‍ ‍U‍s‍e‍r
August 27, 2025
Great stay at Sands Beach Resort. The beach was beautiful, staff were friendly, and everything felt easy and relaxed. Would definitely come back again.
G‍u‍e‍s‍t‍ ‍U‍s‍e‍r
August 27, 2025
Great resort, beautiful beach, clean rooms, very good food, and amazing staff. Perfect stay, I would definitely come back again!
J‍o‍n‍a‍s‍ ‍A
January 3, 2025
We had the best time as The Sands Beach Resort. Very friendly and nice staff that made every extra effort for the customers. We had a villa with private pool, half board- and that was perfect for us. Food was good and they made special setups every night to make it feel special. I can really recommend Sands Beach Resort as you will be seen and heard at any point! Its a small resort making it not to crowded. You can be alone in the pool, and there are always a sunbed avaliable. No cues in the bars or restaurang.

Services & Amenities

Outdoor swimming pool
Exclusive Beach Area
Spa
Bar
Restaurant
Restaurant
Restaurant
No additional info available
More Amenities
Internet
Outdoor swimming pool
Parking
Private (exclusively for guests) is available On-site parking. Reservation not needed.
Transportation
Front desk services
Languages spoken
Food & drink
Health & wellness
Activities
Public areas
Cleaning services
Facilities for children
Business services
Safety & security

Property Policies

Check-in and Check-out Times
Check-in: after 14:00
Check-out: 02:00–11:00

Front desk hours: 24/7

Child policies
Children of all ages are welcome at this property.
Additional fees may be charged for children using existing beds. Add the number of children to get a more accurate price.

Cots and Extra Beds
For all room types, cots cannot be added. Extra bed policies vary according to room type. Please refer to the relevant room type policy.

Breakfast
StyleBuffet
Opening hours[Mon - Sun] 07:00-10:00 Open
AgeFee
Adult
Contact property
Additional breakfast fees are not included in the total and need to be paid at the property.

Pets
Pets are not allowed

Age Requirements
The main guest checking in must be at least 18 years old

Paying at the hotel

  • Cash

Property Description

  • Number of Rooms: 19
Phone:+255-776864265
With a stay at The Sands Beach Resort Zanzibar in Dongwe, you'll be on the beach, within a 15-minute drive of Paje Beach and Dongwe Beach. This beach hotel is 7.4 mi (11.9 km) from Jambiani Beach and 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Bwejuu Beach.

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages and facials. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and barbecue grills.

Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Need to unwind? Take a break with a tasty beverage at one of the 2 bars/lounges. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10 AM.

Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and free self parking is available onsite.

Make yourself at home in one of the 20 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars. Rooms have private balconies or patios. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include safes and electric kettles, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy for The Sands Beach Resort?

The cancellation policy for The Sands Beach Resort varies depending on the type of room and booking conditions.

How much does it cost at The Sands Beach Resort?

Prices at The Sands Beach Resort change according to dates, hotel policy, and other factors. Please search for the dates you wish to stay to view prices.

Does The Sands Beach Resort have airport transfer services?

Yes, The Sands Beach Resort offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm availability and pricing.

What are The Sands Beach Resort nearby landmarks?

Nearby attractions to The Sands Beach Resort include Rising Sun Diving Centre, only 960m from your search (straight-line distance) away.

Does The Sands Beach Resort provide a pool?

Yes, The Sands Beach Resort has a swimming pool for guests.

What amenities or services does The Sands Beach Resort offer?

The Sands Beach Resort has amenities including Shuttle Bus Service.

What are check-in & check-out time at The Sands Beach Resort?

Check-in at The Sands Beach Resort starts from 14:00, and the standard check-out time is by 11:00.

Are pets welcome at The Sands Beach Resort?

No, pets are not welcome at The Sands Beach Resort.

About This Property

Nearest AirportAbeid Amani Karume International Airport
Distance to Airport59.13KM
Average Price FromMYR1236
Hotel Star Rating4