Tourism

Top 5 most exclusive underwater hotels in Africa


At a Glance


  • The Manta Resort offers secluded luxury with underwater views in Zanzibar, perfect for marine life enthusiasts and exclusive getaways.
  • Mozambique’s Pearl Underwater Hotel combines sustainability, local artistry, and luxury for a serene aquatic escape.
  • Africa’s underwater hotels create jobs, boost tourism, and offer unique experiences while balancing conservation and economic growth.

Africa is revolutionizing luxury travel with its stunning underwater hotels, offering a seamless blend of marine exploration and opulence. These unique accommodations immerse guests in vibrant aquatic ecosystems, serene ocean vistas, and innovative architectural designs.

Underwater hotels are quickly becoming a hallmark of Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry, elevating the continent’s global appeal.

From Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters to Mozambique’s vibrant coral reefs, these destinations offer an unmatched combination of exclusivity, luxury, and unforgettable moments.

Redefining hospitality, Africa’s underwater hotels embody the synergy of luxury, innovation, and sustainability. They promise immersive marine experiences alongside world-class amenities, reflecting Africa’s commitment to creating exceptional travel opportunities.

As demand for unique travel experiences grows, Africa’s underwater hotels are setting a global benchmark, showcasing the continent’s potential to deliver unparalleled adventures.

Explore with Shore Africa the top five underwater hotels that exemplify Africa’s dedication to offering world-class, unforgettable escapes.


1. The Manta Resort, Zanzibar

Situated off the coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa’s first underwater hotel space, the Manta Resort is the epitome of secluded luxury.

The Manta Resort’s unique selling point is its perfect blend of exclusivity, natural beauty, and serene ambiance.

Its underwater room sits in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, offering guests a private retreat surrounded by marine life.

The suite boasts a glass-walled bedroom submerged four meters below the sea, providing a 360-degree view of the ocean’s wonders.

Above the water, a sun deck and lounge area allow guests to soak in the tropical sunshine. Personalized butler service ensures every need is met.


2. The Water Discus Hotel, Cape Verde

An engineering marvel, the Water Discus Hotel in Cape Verde seamlessly combines futuristic design with environmental consciousness.

Water Discus’ revolutionary design, paired with Cape Verde’s vibrant culture and pristine waters, makes it a must-visit for eco-conscious luxury tourists.

Comprising two disc-shaped structures, one above and one below the water, this hotel offers guests a glimpse into marine life without compromising on luxury.

Each underwater room features large windows for breathtaking ocean views, complemented by cutting-edge amenities.

The hotel’s focus on sustainability, using renewable energy sources and marine conservation initiatives, sets it apart.


3. The Subsix Underwater Hotel, Mauritius

Located off the coast of Mauritius, Subsix redefines underwater opulence. Accessible via a speedboat, this lavish hotel offers guests an extraordinary stay beneath the waves.

Its underwater suites, adorned with artistic interiors and expansive glass walls, provide a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean’s marine life.

Subsix is also a culinary destination, featuring a world-class underwater restaurant serving gourmet dishes. Personalized service ensures a seamless experience for its guests.

Its unique selling point lies in its combination of luxury accommodations and fine dining, set against the backdrop of Mauritius’s stunning underwater world.


4. The Jumeirah Underwater Hotel, South Africa

Off the coast of South Africa lies the Jumeirah Underwater Hotel, a luxurious escape that harmonizes with the surrounding marine environment.

Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, unveils a unique partnership with the Thanda Group

Guests enjoy plush underwater suites equipped with state-of-the-art technology and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the ocean to life.

The hotel emphasizes wellness, offering underwater spa treatments and meditation sessions. Above water, it provides gourmet dining and adventure tours, from shark diving to marine conservation activities.

Its unbeatable location near South Africa’s vibrant marine ecosystems makes it a haven for adventure seekers and luxury enthusiasts alike.


5. The Shimoni Reef Underwater Hotel, Kenya

Situated along Kenya’s coast, the Shimoni Reef Underwater Hotel offers an intimate and eco-friendly marine retreat.

Each suite provides a front-row seat to the underwater world, with glass floors and walls offering an uninterrupted view of the Indian Ocean’s vibrant ecosystem.

The hotel emphasizes sustainability, integrating solar power and local craftsmanship into its design.

Guests can explore coral reefs through guided snorkeling and diving excursions or relax with eco-conscious spa treatments. Its dedication to preserving the marine environment while delivering unparalleled luxury makes it a standout destination.

Feyisayo Ajayi

Feyisayo Ajayi is the Publisher and Co-founder of Shore Africa, the flagship media brand under the Travel Shore umbrella. He brings over a decade of multidisciplinary experience across media, finance, and technology. Feyisayo holds a bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

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