Karafuu Beach Resort and Spa

Guests at the relaxed Karafuu Beach Resort are welcomed at check-in with a glass of fresh hibiscus juice and scented towels, ensuring a sweet start to a stay here. The massive open-air lobby is canopied by a thatched roof and looks perfectly at home in eastern Zanzibar. When the green gardens, handsome carved furniture, and abundance of open space are added to the mix, the first impression here is a fine one, with a nice dose of character. Persian rugs, handsome chaise lounges, and sparkling golden chandeliers -- along with a few four-poster day beds -- all make this an appealing option for the couples who mostly stay here, though the rooms are sadly looking a bit tired and dated. 

The hotel is in rural Pingwe, on the eastern coast of Zanzibar. The region is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, though the dramatic tide schedule means that swimming isn't always great. Boat rides, water sports, and tours are organized by the hotel, though the locals who sell their services on the sand do so at more reasonable prices.    

There are a few dining options nearby. The Rock is a picturesque restaurant that's literally in the middle of the sea, balanced on a coral reef near Kiweni Beach, a 15-minute walk from the hotel. During low tide you can wade over, but otherwise it requires a boat ride. Those on a tighter budget can try Pweza Beach Bungalows and Kitchen, with a more casual vibe and equally gorgeous views -- it’s also 15 minutes away on foot.

The port and village at Stone Town is on the other side of the island -- about a 75-minute drive from the hotel, while Jozani Forest is 30 minutes away by car. Zanzibar International Airport is about an hour and 15 minutes by taxi. 

The 119 rooms here are neat and clean, despite their plain and somewhat dated decor. Carved wood furniture continues the rustic look from the hotel's common areas, and includes four-poster beds draped with white mosquito nets. They’re complemented by loveseats, also disguised by mosquito nets and large enough to serve as small daybeds. However, the fabrics are old and heavy, and despite the charming wood-beam ceilings, details like tile floors and mustard-yellow color palettes don't look fresh. While upgraded Junior Suites are a costlier choice, their location under palm trees at the water’s edge offer priceless views of the changing tides. 

Flat-screen TVs with satellite stations, electric kettles, and mini-fridges are standard, and while all have air-conditioning, it isn't always reliable. Additionally, the Wi-Fi -- which isn't free -- can be spotty. Rooms also feature private terraces that mostly look out to the gardens. Luckily, hotel activities are mostly centered away from the rooms, except for those above the pools, where it can get a little loud at times. The plumbing in bathrooms is also a bit outdated, though that’s common for the rest of the island. Still -- it can feel unpleasant to stand ankle-deep in water after a shower. Towels and simple selection of toiletries are provided, and there's plenty of counter space plus bidets.

Despite its somewhat faded elegance, the hotel still manages to pack in a ton of features. There are multiple pools here, which come in handy as the tides can be unpredictable and make swimming in the ocean a challenge. The best pool overlooks the beach, as does the spa pool (which is more of a hot tub), and there are plenty of lounge chairs around the various pools and on the beach. Those wanting to unwind indoors can head to the spa, which has a rustic charm.

The six restaurants can accommodate most diets, including gluten-free eaters and vegans. Options range from buffets to a la carte restaurants, and are themed with varying menus -- like pizza at Eatalian and traditional Swahili dinners at Masai Village. While there are three on-site bars (two of which are in or near the pool) the cocktails are costly, and the all-inclusive plan limits you to basic mixed drinks. Additionally, there are restrictions on which dishes can be ordered in various restaurants with the all-inclusive plan. 

Activities abound here, and include a gym, volleyball, and tennis courts. There's also a playground for kids as well as evening entertainment. A PADI-certified dive shop is handy for those who want to explore the nearby reefs, and the hotel has gift shops selling crafts, beach gear, and sundries. There are fairly extensive business facilities that include projectors and printing, though Wi-Fi isn't free and is billed per day. That adds insult to injury, as it doesn't function well. Parking is also free at the hotel.