Sunshine Marine Lodge

The main lounge area is open-sided and thatched in traditional makuti. (There's also seating in the rock garden.) The walls are built of cobble stones and the decor is a bright palette of blues, oranges and yellows. Meals are served in the restaurant, and the bar is a good place to gather. A large pool faces the ocean, and there's an attractive little ocean pier so that you can take a dip in the waters at high tide.

Cosy, well appointed and simply decorated with traditional artefacts and colourful prints, the 23 rooms are spread around the gardens and on the slopes overlooking the ocean. All have been designed to maximise the breezes (there's no aircon), with cool painted floors and adequate en-suite bathrooms. The beds are netted and comfortable. Book one of the Panorama Suites – set further up the slope, they offer the most expansive views of the property and ocean beyond.

Exploring the underwater world of Mnemba Atoll is a must, and Sunshine Marine Lodge has an on-site dive centre to make it happen. Beach lovers can make their way to Muyuni Beach, at low tide, to enjoy its crowd-free stretch of sandy paradise. There are bikes available, some in better condition than others. If not, there is also a shuttle that drives to and from the beach daily.