Bawe Island

OVERVIEW:

Bawe Island is an exclusive island resort immersed in 30 hectares of tropical nature off the coast of Zanzibar. Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Bawe is the ideal beachfront getaway for a spot of post-safari relaxation, or indeed, as an oceanfront destination in its own right. Spacious high-end villas, excellent service, varied dining options, and a terrific spa provide a winning formula for families seeking luxury with plenty of appeal for adults and children alike. Full-board rates include accommodation, three daily meals, local drinks, a personal butler service, and return transfers from/to the airport if staying for a minimum of three nights.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

Bawe Island is located off the west coast of Zanzibar, a 15-minute speedboat ride from its capital, Stone Town. A dedicated staff welcomes all guests on arrival at Zanzibar International Airport, providing fast-track immigration service and assistance with luggage. As an alternative to boat transfers, guests can also jet in by private helicopter, landing at the resort’s helipad.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT BAWE ISLAND:

The accommodation at Bawe Island consists of 70 exclusive villas, comprising 26 Sunrise Villas, 31 Sunset Suites, 8 Lagoon Suites, 4 Zanzibar Villas, and the impressive Sultan Palace. Sunrise Villas are located on the island’s east side, and each features a king-sized four-poster bed, an indoor sitting area, a semi-open-air bathroom, and an outdoor terrace with a private pool and sunloungers. On the island’s west side, Sunset Suites are slightly larger and can accommodate two adults and two children on sofa beds. Lagoon Suites are overwater villas on the sunrise side – each has a swimming pool and a large deck, ideal for stepping straight into the crystal-clear seawater. Every Zanzibar Villa boasts 310 square metres of space, including two spacious en-suite bedrooms, a corner bar, a kitchen for in-villa dining overseen by a private chef, a garden with a swimming pool, and direct access to the beach. Finally, the 500 sq. m Sultan Palace accommodates up to nine guests across two floors. On the ground floor, there’s a kitchen, two en-suite bedrooms, and a large living room facing the outside deck with a swimming pool and dining area. The master bedroom occupies the first floor, with a huge walk-in closet and an oversized bathroom. Everything is finished to the highest spec, with details that won’t go unnoticed by guests who appreciate luxury, including Frette linens and towels, Nespresso machines, Dyson Supersonic hairdryers in the bathrooms, and fully stocked mini-bars with ice machines. Further modern amenities include air conditioning, fans, electronic safes, room service, and Wi-Fi.

Bawe Island offers a choice of four restaurants: The Sand for breakfast and dinner in a rustic, feet-in-the-sand setting, Japanese Teppanyaki at ​Rising Sun, Italian cuisine at ​Sinfonia, and the adults-only Beach Club for informal beachfront dining. The View Bar presents an idyllic setting for sundown drinks with gorgeous Indian Ocean views, often accompanied by live music and DJ performances. The spa, by the South African brand Healing Earth, offers an extensive range of holistic treatments and full-day retreat packages. There’s a full fitness centre equipped with Technogym, group fitness classes, personal training, and yoga and Pilates sessions. Fitness enthusiasts can also take to one of the courts for a game of tennis, padel, or futsal. Finally, those travelling with children will find plenty to keep them entertained at the kids club, and there’s a babysitting service for parents in need of a break!

ACTIVITIES AT BAWE ISLAND:

Bawe Island is ideal for those who enjoy island life and a full spectrum of beach resort activities, including watersports, boat trips, diving, cycling, and relaxing spa treatments.

• Catamaran cruise

  – Embark on a memorable catamaran cruise on the glass-like waters surrounding Bawe Island, with an expert crew at the helm. Cruises are designed to offer full flexibility, so you might choose to head out on an adventure for a few hours or book a full-day exploration trip.

• Scuba diving

  – The Bawe Island reef is one of the most spectacular in Zanzibar, home to an incredible range of brightly coloured tropical fish and marine life, accessible for beginners and providing ample thrill for experienced divers. Discover the fundamentals of diving surrounded by exquisite coral gardens, and even learn some basic underwater photography tips.

• Watersports

  – Maximise your time spent adventuring on the Indian Ocean with a range of motorised and non-motorised watersports. Dynamic waterskiing, adrenalin-fuelled wakeboarding, kite-surfing, and glass canoes are all part of the adventure.

• Yoga and pilates

  – With panoramic ocean views and pretty surrounding gardens, the open-air Zen Garden and Beach Pavilion offer tranquil spaces for yoga, meditation, and pilates sessions.

• Tennis, padel, and futsal

  – Energetic guests may choose to mix up their fitness activities with a game of tennis, padel, or futsal at one of the resort’s courts.

• Cycling

  – Explore the island on one of Bawe’s customised bicycles – a fun way to keep fit in the open air surrounded by nature.