Ulala Lodge

The main area has a wonderfully natural feel. The freeform makuti (woven from coco palm leaves) thatched roof is held aloft by weathered driftwood, and covers an open-plan lounge and bar, with pure beach sand underfoot. The restaurant is open-sided and faces onto the beach where the local fisherman bring their daily catch ashore – seafood doesn’t get fresher than this! Electricity comes from solar panels and a wind turbine, and there is WiFi in the restaurant area.

The six charming bungalows are well spaced amongst the scattered palm trees fringing the beach, and have a tranquil feel, with native timber, bamboo wall panels, makuti roofs, and solid teak decks overlooking the ocean. Interiors are simple but very comfortable, and each is en-suite with hot running water and a shower. Two bungalows are up on stilts, and two have double bedrooms, suitable for a family. All have canopy mosquito nets, and large windows to catch the breeze.

The pristine beach is perfect for long walks, particularly at low tide when the sandbanks are exposed. Take a stroll around the freshwater lake behind the dunes and look out for a variety of birds feeding along the shores. Swim in the warm tidal pools, or kayak out to the deeper channels teeming with fish. Other activities include volleyball, Pétanque, badminton and kite surfing. Snorkelling, diving, seasonal whale watching cruises, and Pemba town tours can also be arranged from the lodge.