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Rating8.0Hotel Riu Palace Swahili
Zanzibar, Tanzania
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Rating8.1Adults OnlyHotel Riu Palace Macao
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
View →Rating8.0Rating8.1Adults OnlyRating8.0Rating8.1Adults OnlyWater activities are the primary draw given Nungwi's reef access. Kayaking, SUP, snorkeling, and pedaloes are all included. The complimentary pool-based scuba intro is a gateway — full reef dives run through the dive center at extra cost, and given Zanzibar's underwater environment, these are worth budgeting for. Stone Town day trips and spice plantation tours are the top off-resort excursions.
Large infinity-edge pool with ocean views from the far end. The visual centerpiece of the resort. Gets busy from 11am to 3pm — early morning swims are calm and the views at sunrise are memorable.
Smaller outdoor pool with integrated whirlpool. More secluded than the main pool. Good for couples wanting a quieter water option.
Standard pool providing overflow capacity from the main pool. Useful when the infinity pool is at peak occupancy.
Heated pool inside the Renova Spa with hydromassage zone. Complimentary access included. Good for sore muscles after activities or a dive day.
The resort's private section of Nungwi Beach is reserved with sunloungers and parasols. Nungwi's north-facing position means the water remains swimmable at all tide levels — unlike much of Zanzibar's east coast, which becomes a mudflat at low tide. White sand, clear water, minimal seaweed. The Makuti Beach Bar serves drinks and snacks without leaving the sand.
Included. Nungwi's calm northern waters are ideal for paddling — morning sessions before the afternoon wind picks up are best.
Included. Stand-up paddleboarding on the clear shallow water near the shore. Good for beginners.
Included. Reef life directly off Nungwi Beach justifies using it — ask staff about the best entry points from the resort's beach section.
Included. Slow-paced ocean exploration — good for a relaxed late afternoon.
Included — pool lesson only. If you want to dive the actual reef, book through the dive center at additional cost. Zanzibar's reefs make this genuinely worth doing.
Included. Tables near the pool area.
Included. Organized games at set times on Nungwi Beach.
Included for guests 18+. Cardio machines face the ocean — one of the better-positioned resort gyms. Gym shoes required.
Included. RiuFit classes, aerobics, and yoga sessions scheduled several times weekly.
Included. Activities program several times per week — ranges from pool games to cultural demonstrations.
Included. Nightly shows and live music — production quality is reasonable for a 200-room property.
Included. Twice weekly themed buffet evenings at Promenade — the African Night is the better of the two.
Included (note: currently adults-only until November 2025, when this becomes relevant for families).
Not included. On-site dive school offers courses and guided dives. Zanzibar's Mnemba Atoll and local reefs are worth the extra spend.
Not included. Kite surfing, sailing, and windsurfing available at extra cost.
Not included. Available at additional cost.
Not included — court use carries an additional fee.
Not included. Rental available for exploring the Nungwi village area on your own.
Not included. Stone Town, Omani palace ruins, and spice plantation tours are all within reach — arrange through the concierge.
