Sea Cliff Resort & Spa

A three-mile drive through the neighboring coconut plantation leads visitors to the guarded, thatch-roof entrance and onto the well-tended grounds of the Sea Cliff Resort & Spa. As guests step through a heavy set of ornately carved wooden doors, they'll find themselves in the reception area, which, like many on the island, features a lofty, traditional Makuti roof, Arabian-style patterns, and colored lamps. Guests are offered fresh mango juice before they're ushered through the resort's gardens to one of several accommodation blocks. 

The overall ambience is that of a straightforward full-service resort, where expansive grounds and extensive facilities are emphasized over individuality or character. While there's no real beach, one of the main draws here is the superb tiered terraces and infinity-edge pools that overlook the ocean, as well as the long jetty that gives access to the sea. Child-friendly amenities, such as a kids' club and recreation areas, and the island's only golf course attract families and older couples. While it's not the most romantic resort on the island, occasional weddings are held here, and plenty of honeymooning couples find their way here.

The resort, situated on the west coast of Zanzibar, has a clifftop setting overlooking the Indian Ocean. The location is particularly secluded, with nothing within walking distance -- though strolls along the beach are possible at low tide. The island's capital, Zanzibar City, together with its historic Stone Town district, is about a 40-minute drive. The Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is also a 40-minute drive from the hotel.

The resort has 120 rooms -- 96 of which have sea views from furnished balconies or terraces -- and all come decorated in a gold-and-white color scheme with modern furnishings and Arabian touches. Rooms are well-maintained, but lack high-end touches. Still, they include free Wi-Fi (which can be slow), mini-fridges (stocked on request), and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Likewise, bathrooms are adequate but uninspiring, with walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and basic toiletries -- though some feature whirlpool tubs. The rooms are not prone to insects, unlike at some of the more rustic resorts. 

The hotel's main restaurant, Mangapwani, serves a buffet breakfast, as well as local and international cuisine for lunch and dinner; it overlooks the pool and offers alfresco dining and occasionally live music. The more casual restaurant, Kobe, is located at the pool and serves pizza and wraps. There are three bars on the property, including one positioned at the end of the jetty. Half-board, full-board and all-inclusive rate are available.

The two swimming pools have infinity edges and sea views, and one is a whopping 75 meters long. A splash pool is available for children, as well as a kids' club. The on-site spa consists of five treatment rooms (including one for couples), a whirlpool tub, steam room, and sauna, but use of these incurs a fee. The fitness center has modern cardio and strength-training equipment, as well as free weights.

Leisure facilities are also some of the best on the island, with a water sports center, two floodlit tennis courts, a squash court, and the island's only golf course (nine holes), while also offering sunrise and sunset horseback riding. Additionally, the hotel has bikes for both children and adults. Three well-equipped meeting rooms are also available. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but the signal is shaky.