About Breezes Beach Club
Breezes Beach Club occupies a lovely stretch of beach along the Michamvi Peninsula.
Compared with many other Zanzibar lodges that we feature, it is a large (70 rooms) place, but being family-run it is less commercial than some of the international-style resorts that can be found here. Its size means it has some excellent facilities and a more buzzing atmosphere than you may find at some of the smaller lodges we feature - however the traditional dark Zanzibari furniture used throughout the resort, and high thatched roofs ensure that it doesn't lack in character.
For one of the larger properties we feature in Zanzibar, Breezes maintains a good amount of Zanzibari character. We have always found the service to be efficient and feel the property offers excellent value. With plenty of activities and facilities, it's a superb choice for families and more active couples.
Our view
For one of the larger properties we feature in Zanzibar, Breezes maintains a good amount of Zanzibari character. We have always found the service to be efficient and feel the property offers excellent value. With plenty of activities and facilities, it's a superb choice for families and more active couples.
Zanzibar expert
Accommodation
70 rooms
Children
Good for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Breezes Beach Club
39 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the holidays. See our 49 pictures and 1 videos of Breezes Beach Club to get the candid view.
View galleryBreezes Beach Club: Our full report
Breezes Beach Club occupies a lovely stretch of beach along the Michamvi Peninsula.
Compared with many other Zanzibar lodges that we feature, it is a large (70 rooms) place, but being family-run it is less commercial than some of the international-style resorts that can be found here. Its size means it has some excellent facilities and a more buzzing atmosphere than you may find at some of the smaller lodges we feature - however the traditional dark Zanzibari furniture used throughout the resort, and high thatched roofs ensure that it doesn't lack in character.
It's a good option for families travelling with younger children, as there are plenty of activities and distractions. These include a floodlit tennis court, movie room, fitness centre, swimming pool, a dive centre and a well-stocked watersports and activities centre where you can hire bikes, snorkels, floating trampolines, volleyballs and kite surfing. They also offer complimentary guided reef walks to all guests where you can discover some of the corals and local marine life.
The Rising Sun Dive Centre is one of only 250 National Geographic Dive Centres in the world - and the only one in East Africa. This means it is has top-level safety and conservation records - and with a 65km reef just rising a mile offshore, diving is the perfect way to pass a morning at Breezes. The Rising Sun Dive Centre can cater for divers of all abilities, offering taster sessions and PADI courses for beginners as well as deep diving courses for more experienced divers.
Honeymoon couples staying at Breezes Beach Club may appreciate the lively atmosphere of the resort and the excellent Fragipani spa - one of the finest in Zanzibar. The spa has an international team of trained therapists (including Thai massage therapists) and offers a great range of treatments - including facials, massages, hand and foot treatments and meditation. Large changing rooms, pre and post treatment relaxation rooms and a yoga room are just a few of the features you'll find here. Couples will especially like the Sultan's Bath House - where the treatments includes a double massage followed by Jacuzzi bath with essential oils. The atmosphere is one of complete relaxation and the intricate designs are reminiscent of the days of Arab rule in Zanzibar.
There are a number of common areas to relax in around Breezes Beach Club, not to mention numerous restaurants and bars to choose from. During the day the Pool Bar is a popular spot for enjoying a cool drink in the shade. Breakfast and dinner take place in Salama Restaurant - a large thatched room with a buffet table, which is regularly decorated with different themes and has live entertainment every night. Alternatively pop to Breakers Restaurant for a lunch snack.
For a more intimate dining experience the Sultan's Table is a smaller restaurant overlooking the sea. The Indian and Swahili inspired food made from fresh, local produce is very good, and the Arabian style décor and fabrics create an excellent atmosphere, but please note this restaurant incurs a supplement on half and full board rates.
For a truly romantic meal, Tides Restaurant is an intimate table for two set away from the main dining areas. The open-sided Arabian style room allows an uninterrupted view over the Indian ocean and the excellent service ensures a magical experience. There is always a supplement for this exclusive dining experience.
After dinner, retire to the Safari Bar for a few drinks, or to the Baraza Bar for a cigar and liqueurs.
There are four different categories of room - Standard Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and Suites. All have the same interior décor and are of a similar size, however, deluxe rooms are closer to the sea than a standard room, and the Suites are situated on the upper level with a large balcony. It is important to note that none of the rooms have a guaranteed sea-view.
Breezes has a large two-floor villa, which contains four deluxe rooms sleeping up to 6 people. The villa has all the facilities of the other rooms, plus TV and DVD player.
If you are looking for somewhere which offers all the facilities of a resort such as Breezes, but with much more exclusivity, then consider Palms, the sister property next door. Or perhaps Baraza Resort & Spa which is also just up the beach. Alternatively if you are looking for a fresh, modern and luxurious alternative then you may want to consider Zawadi, the latest property in The Zanzibar Collections portfolio.
Please note, that during school holidays and Christmas and New Year, advanced booking is strongly advised here.
Geographics
- Location
- Michamvi Peninsula, Zanzibar
- Ideal length of stay
- Stay here for 4 to 5 nights to relax and take advantage of the great facilities.
- Directions
- It takes around 35 minutes to fly to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, and then it's a further one hour by car to Breezes Beach Club.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- There are four different dining areas at Breezes Beach Club so there is plenty of variety, though not all of the restaurants can be used on the full board basis. Breakfast is always served in the Salama Restaurant in a buffet style and includes a wide variety of fresh fruits, cereals and a full English breakfast.
The full board lunch is then served in the relaxed poolside Breakers Restaurant which offers an a la carte menu with most items included. Though guests on half board can also eat here for an extra charge. When we were last here we enjoyed chicken satay skewers and chips. The Sultan's Table is a more formal restaurant with Indian and Swahili influenced food – this restaurant always commands a supplement, though guests on a full board rate do get a 15% discount.
Afternoon tea is served in the Chai Tea Lounge from 4 - 5:30pm.
For dinner you can head to the Salama Restaurant for a 5-course meal, or for a substantial supplement dine in the Sultan's Table. There is also the Tides Restaurant which is exclusive dining for two right next to the beach in a small gazebo. This also commands a supplement and it should be booked in advance.
When we last visited Breezes Beach Club, we were entertained by Maasai gymnasts which was part of the weekly Swahli night. We enjoyed an al a carte menu featuring a range of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes. Our starter was tomato soup followed by fresh fish in a coconut crust; pudding was a delicious chocolate brownie and vanilla ice-cream. Four nights in a week there is a buffet in Salama Restaurant, and for the other three nights there is a set-menu, which means that there is plenty of variety for guests staying a full week. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Yes
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- The large, family-run Breezes Beach Club has a big pool, a tennis court, movie room, gym and an outstanding watersports and diving centre, plus cots and high chairs available. It welcomes children of all ages on family beach holidays in Zanzibar.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Zanzibar
- Beach holidays
- Breezes Beach Club sits on a pretty stretch of beach on the Michamvi Peninsula. With plenty of loungers, a large swimming pool and a water-sports centre it is the location for a great beach holidays particularly for families.
- See ideas for Beach holidays in Zanzibar
- Diving & snorkelling
- Breezes Beach Club has the Rising Sun Dive Centre on site, where you can join one of the PADI scuba diving courses on offer. If you already have your certification you can head straight out on one of their organised dives to the nearby reefs.
- See ideas for Diving & snorkelling in Zanzibar
- Wellbeing
- Breezes Beach Club has one of the finest spas on Zanzibar – the Fragipani Spa. There is an international team of trained therapists offering a wide variety of treatments such as facials, massages and hand & foot treatments.
- See ideas for Wellbeing in Zanzibar
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Breezes Beach Club welcome children of all ages
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at Breezes Beach Club
- Special activities & services
- Over Christmas and Easter, Breezes organize special kids clubs however throughout the rest of the year they cannot offer this.
- Equipment
- Breezes can provide cots and high-chairs on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Breezes is a great option for families with children.
- Notes
- Breezes Beach Club is a larger resort with plenty of activities on offer, a large beach and a pool to keep children busy. Though parents should also be aware that children are their responsibility for the duration of their stay.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is 24 hour electricity.
- Communications
- There are phones in all the rooms. Wifi Internet access is available throughout.
- TV & radio
- There is a TV room that has DSTV (satellite)
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Breezes have a nurse on site, however for more serious medical situations there is a western hospital in Stone Town.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Breezes Beach Club has a front gate which is normally closed and watched and discrete security guards around the property.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in all of the main areas and bungalows, as well as 10 fire hoses dotted throughout Breezes.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- There is a full laundry service for an extra Charge – around $3 – 7 depending on the item.
- Money
- Breezes Beach Club will exchange Dollars, Pounds, Euros.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash, MasterCard, Visa and Euro card are all accepted for settling payments. There is no surcharge.
Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa
All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you. Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.
Talk to an Expert
Call or email us now! We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.
Set up your itinerary
Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.
Prepare for your trip
The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.
Travel with peace of mind
After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.
When you return
We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.
Breezes Beach Club's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Breezes Beach Club.
Excursions from Breezes Beach Club
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Breezes Beach Club. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Jambiani Village Tour
Half-day - mornings
Tear yourself away from the soft white sands of Zanzibar to get under the skin of the history and culture of Jambiani village. Join a knowledgeable local guide to discover the intricacies of day-to-day life in this traditional coastal village, with much of the profits being ploughed back into the community.
More about Village Tour
Jozani Forest Tour
Half-day or combine with other tours
For nature lovers, Jozani Forest is a must. One of the last sanctuaries of the red colobus monkey, it features a diverse range of habitats, from mangrove forests to salt marshes. Keep your eyes peeled for other forest residents, including Sykes’ monkey, bushbabies, duikers and more than 40 species of bird.
More about Jozani ForestOther lodges in Michamvi Peninsula
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Qambani
Qambani is a luxury property on the tip of the Michamvi Peninsula, set on a low cliff above a white, sandy beach, with stunning ocean views.
Baraza Resort & Spa
Baraza is a high-quality resort, with a buzzing atmosphere and a range of activities that appeal both to families and lively honeymooners.
White Sand Villas
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a stylish, small resort lodge located near the town of Paje.
The Palms
The Palms is an exclusive and luxurious beach getaway - though the main areas are small – next to Breezes and sharing Breezes' facilities.
Xanadu Villas
Situated on a picturesque beach on the Michamvi Peninsula, Xanadu Villas is a sophisticated boutique hotel with six luxurious private villas.
Kono Kono
Kono Kono is a contemporary beach resort on a quiet stretch of west-facing beach on the Michamvi peninsula.
Anna of Zanzibar
Anna of Zanzibar’s warm atmosphere and five spacious and inviting villas make it a great place for a relaxed stay on a lovely stretch of beach.
Zawadi
Set on a pretty cove on Zanzibar’s Michamvi Peninsula, Zawadi is a modern boutique hotel offering lots of space and privacy.
When to go to Michamvi Peninsula
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Breezes Beach Club in Michamvi Peninsula
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Zanzibar in January
As on the Tanzanian mainland, January typically marks the start of the short dry season in Zanzibar. Conditions are likely to be hot and mostly dry, with temperatures exceeding 30ºC, although it is not uncommon to get a tropical shower in the afternoons. January can feel very humid at times, and this is particularly noticeable in Stone Town, although this can be tempered by the cooling sea breeze.
New Year is one of the most popular times to visit Zanzibar, with many hotels being fully booked over the festive period. The island generally becomes much quieter after 10th January, and prices drop too.
- Mostly hot with the occasional shower.
- High humidity, which can be relieved by the refreshing breeze.
- Very busy over New Year, with high prices and long minimum stays often
- Quieter and better value later in the month.
- Wind from the northeast, and so the southwest coast is more sheltered.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Zanzibar in February
The weather in February is fairly similar to January, with days typically being hot and sunny although expect the occasional rainy spell. The humidity remains high, however the coastal areas often have a refreshing breeze. Zanzibar is fairly quiet in February, and with comparatively low prices it can be excellent value for money.
At this time the wind blows from the northeast, and so the southwest coast is often more sheltered and there can be good diving in the Menai Bay. The northeast winds can also lead to good conditions for kite surfing, with many kite surfers heading to the southeast coast and Michamvi Peninsula. For music lovers, Stone Town hosts an annual African music festival ‘Sauti za Busara’ each February. The festival's dates change each year; ask us for details.
- Variable: mostly hot and humid with some cloud and rainy spells.
- Fewer tourists and comparatively low prices.
- Popular time for kite surfing, especially around the southeast coast.
- North easterly wind, better diving in the south west of the island.
- ‘Sauti za Busara’ music festival in early February.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in February
Zanzibar in March
March sees the start of the ‘long rains’ in Zanzibar, although the exact start date varies every year. The weather can be unpredictable, with a combination of hot sunny days, rain showers, and the occasional tropical storm. The arrival of the rains lowers the humidity, and it can also lead to some beautiful sunsets – most obviously on the west coast where you can watch the sunset over the ocean. Prices remain low during March, and the island is likely to be relatively quiet.
Diving is generally not recommended during the rainy season, as variable conditions can lead to reduced visibility from rainfall runoff, and choppy water.
- Hot and humid, leading to heavy rains later in the month.
- Low prices, and the island is comparatively quiet.
- Variable weather leads to poor conditions for diving.
- The start of the rains can lead to beautiful sunsets.
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Zanzibar in April
April is typically the wettest month of the year in Zanzibar, and the long rains are in full force. The average rainfall is more than 250mm during this month, and tropical storms are common. Flooding regularly occurs, which can impact the quality of the roads, and consequently cause difficult, slow journeys across the island. Many of the hotels and beach lodges close at this time, so accommodation options can be limited. Having said this, prices are at their lowest, and if you don’t mind the risk of bad weather you can get some real bargains.
Despite the poor conditions, Easter weekend is often popular, and advance booking is recommended. Due to the strong likelihood of rain and poor conditions diving is inadvisable at this time.
- Heavy rain and tropical storms expected throughout the month.
- Areas of flooding leading to poor travel conditions.
- Many hotels close for refurbishment at this time.
- Low prices and few other tourists.
- Diving inadvisable due to heavy rain and reduced visibility.
Our view
A time to avoid if possible
Weather in April
Zanzibar in May
The long rains continue into May, and as with April you can expect thunderstorms and heavy showers, although these typically ease up towards the end of the month. Parts of the island can experience flooding, causing damage to roads and impacting travel times. The temperature typically drops a little in May, with a daytime average of around 25ºC. The rains lead to a lower humidity too, and mornings and evenings can feel a bit cooler.
Many of the hotels and lodges are still closed, however a handful stay open and prices remain low. While diving is possible, the rain and storms mean that diving conditions are not at their best.
- Continuation of the long rains, with thunderstorms and lightning.
- Flooding common, but conditions becoming drier as the month progresses
- Drop in temperatures, with cooler mornings and evenings.
- Prices low, and many hotels remain closed.
Our view
A time to avoid if possible
Weather in May
Zanzibar in June
June marks the start of the long dry season in Zanzibar. While the island still gets rainfall, especially early in the month, it’s becomes less likely as the month progresses. Temperatures remain steady, with daytime highs averaging 25ºC, and it likely to be mostly dry. Any rain you do experience is likely to be in shorter bursts rather than heavy storms and hours of continuous rain, although conditions vary from year to year.
The wind direction switches to blow from the southeast, and the northeast coast is likely to be more sheltered at this time. Diving conditions can be variable, and while they are generally good there can be some rough days.
- Variable weather: mostly hot and dry, with some rainy showers.
- Wind from the southwest, and more sheltered in the north east.
- Diving conditions variable, dependent on the wind and rain.
- Lower prices and generally good weather can lead to great value.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Zanzibar in July
July is a very popular time to go to Zanzibar, and this coincides with the long dry season. July and August are the school holidays throughout much of Europe, and Zanzibar can often be busy with families. Weather conditions are generally hot and dry and pretty ideal for a beach holiday, however there is still a chance of an occasional short shower. Conditions for diving are typically pretty good, however this will be dependent on recent weather conditions.
The Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in July, with lots of people flocking to Stone Town to soak up the atmosphere. The dates for the festival change every year, so chat to Expert Africa for details.
- Typically hot and dry with clear skies, although showers are possible.
- Can become very busy, with many families traveling during holidays.
- Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in Stone Town.
- Great beach weather result in high prices.
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Zanzibar in August
August is one of the most popular times of year to visit Zanzibar, and with good reason; this is one of the driest months and it is typically hot with clear skies – ideal for relaxing on the beach. Many families choose to visit during August, and the island can be busy, and this is particularly noticeable in Stone Town and around the more popular snorkelling sites.
High demand can mean that many of the more popular hotels and beach lodges can be booked up more than 6 months ahead, so advance booking is crucial. Due to the popularity and great beach weather prices are high.
- Hot and sunny, generally ideal for relaxing on the beach.
- Popular time for families and the island can be busy.
- High demand leads to higher prices, and advance booking is essential.
- With little rain falling and causing soil run-off, the sea is clear.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Zanzibar in September
September is an excellent time of year to visit Zanzibar. Weather conditions are typically very good, with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 20¬–30ºC. September is also one of the driest months, averaging 50mm of rain during the month, however rain showers are still possible. Due to the great beach conditions prices remain high, however with fewer families travelling in September the island can be a little quieter at this time.
September to December are often some of the calmest months at sea, which can result in superb conditions for diving. The wind typically blows from the southeast, and the northeast coast can often be a little more sheltered. You can find some beautiful snorkelling and diving spots around Mnemba Island.
- Warm temperatures and clear skies, with the off-chance of rain.
- Fewer families travelling, and the island can be a little quieter.
- Great beach weather means that prices remain high.
- Relatively calm seas result in good conditions for diving.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Zanzibar in October
October is the tail end of the dry season and you can generally expect hot, dry conditions. The short rains typically start in early November, and so this does mean that there is an increased likelihood of rainy spells as the month progresses. October remains a popular month to travel, particularly so during the European half-term school holidays, and advance booking is advised.
With high demand and great weather prices remain high, however there are some long-stay special offers to be found. South-easterly winds mean that the northeast coast can be more sheltered and conditions for diving can be good.
- End of the dry season, generally good beach weather.
- Increased chance of rain, particularly near the end of the month.
- Popular with families during the half-term school holiday.
- High demand means prices remain high.
- Northeast coast generally more sheltered.
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Zanzibar in November
The short rains start during November, however their exact start varies year on year. You are likely to experience a mixture of hot, dry days with the occasional tropical shower, however we find that short showers can actually be quite refreshing. With the start of the rains the humidity can shoot up and while the coastal properties tend to receive a pleasant cooling breeze Stone Town and the island interior can feel quite hot and clammy.
Prices drop in November and there are some real bargains to be found. This time of year can be great value for money, especially near the start of the month when the weather conditions are very comparable to late October. The demand is generally lower, and the island starts to feel much quieter.
- Variable weather: mostly hot and dry but with some clouds and rain.
- Hot temperatures, with humidity on the rise.
- Less busy than October, and with lower prices it can be great value.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Zanzibar in December
December falls in to the short rainy season, and the weather can be variable. Days are likely to be hot and humid, with the occasional patch of rain, although showers can be a blessing in disguise as they help to lower the temperature. Early December is fairly quiet and prices are low, however this changes dramatically over Christmas and New Year.
The festive season, from around 20th December to 5th January, is arguably the most popular time to visit Zanzibar. Prices are at their highest, and long minimum stays are imposed. Due to the very high demand booking early is essential, especially if you’re a group or a large family. Book six months to a year in advance, or even more, if possible.
- Variable weather, with a mix of hot, sunny days and tropical showers.
- High humidity, which may be mitigated by the cool ocean breeze.
- Quiet with lower prices earlier in the month.
- Busy and exceptionally popular over Christmas and New Year.
- Advance booking over Christmas and New Year is essential.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?
Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure
Inspire me