Mr Kahawa The Lofts, Zanzibar

Mr Kahawa the Lofts is a small, stylish beachfront property located directly on Paje Beach, designed with kite-surfers, couples and independent travellers in mind. The setting is relaxed, creative and peaceful, with a rustic-luxury atmosphere that blends Swahili architecture, handmade décor and artistic touches. The property sits right by the lagoon, with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean and easy access to the beach, the kite spot, and the vibrant energy of Paje village. It’s a place for barefoot living, fresh air, and an easy rhythm, whether you’re here to be active or simply unwind.

There are three Ocean View Lofts, each around 80 square metres in size. These double-level lofts are set above the beach café and have an open-plan layout with a king-size bed on the lower level and two single beds on a wooden mezzanine floor reached by a spiral staircase. Each loft sleeps up to four guests and includes a large en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, handcrafted wooden furniture, a ceiling fan, mosquito nets, a small fridge, a kettle for tea and coffee, and fast Wi-Fi. The high ceilings, open walls and tall shuttered windows allow fresh sea air to flow through. One of the lofts also has a view of the pool and garden, as well as the beach.

In addition to the lofts, Mr Kahawa also offers a collection of garden and poolside rooms known as Mr Kahawa Suites. These rooms are set within tropical gardens just behind the beach café and pool area. Each suite includes a king-size bed and, in many cases, a second single bed, making them suitable for two or three guests. Interiors feature whitewashed walls, local textiles, polished concrete floors and Swahili woodwork. All rooms have private terraces, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, minibars, safes, and a relaxed, natural feel.

There is also a separate private beach villa in nearby Dongwe, managed under the Mr Kahawa name. This villa includes multiple bedrooms, a living and dining space, a private plunge pool, direct beach access, and full kitchen facilities. It is ideal for families or groups of up to six guests seeking more space and privacy.

The property has a single beachfront swimming pool nestled between the suites and the café, with sunbeds and shaded seating overlooking the sea. The pool area is calm and beautifully landscaped with palm trees and flowering plants.

Mr Kahawa’s beachfront café is well known in Paje for its fresh, healthy food and excellent Tanzanian coffee. Open throughout the day, the café serves vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, fresh seafood, homemade pastries and smoothies, all made with a focus on quality ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals on the wooden deck, on the sand, or in shaded lounge areas by the sea.

Additional services include daily breakfast, housekeeping, Wi-Fi throughout the property, room service during café hours, mosquito nets, laundry service and hairdryers on request. The property also offers private yoga sessions, massage treatments and wellness therapies in a quiet garden room.

Activities revolve around the sea and surrounding nature. The property is directly in front of one of the island’s best kite-surfing spots, and gear storage or lessons can be arranged nearby. Paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving and reef walks are all available locally. The team can also help with arranging boat trips, island excursions, bike rentals and guided cultural experiences.

In the evenings, the café sometimes hosts live music or acoustic sets, attracting a warm, laid-back crowd from around the village. The atmosphere is social but calm, and the overall feel of Mr Kahawa is welcoming, creative and relaxed, with a strong connection to the local environment and community.

Mr Kahawa  the Lofts is a peaceful, design-led hideaway with a focus on simplicity, beauty and connection to nature. It’s perfect for anyone looking to balance beachside adventure with a quiet, inspiring place to rest and recharge.