Kenya
Responsible Marine Travel on the Kenyan Coast
A practical field guide to travelling thoughtfully through Kenya’s reefs, mangroves, beaches, islands and living Swahili coastal communities.
Region
Lamu Archipelago
Curated stays in Lamu Town, Shela and the wider Lamu Archipelago.
Kenya
Where to Stay on the Kenyan Coast
An honest guide to choosing between Diani, Mombasa, Watamu, Malindi and Lamu—and between resorts, villas, heritage hotels and small coastal retreats.
Kenya
Forodhani House
An exclusive-use, fully staffed five-bedroom house opening directly onto Shela Beach. Arched sea-facing rooms, generous terraces and a pool create an easy rhythm for families or groups, while a private cook and immediate access to the sand make it especially suited to a relaxed, self-contained Lamu stay.
Kenya
Banana House & Wellness Centre
A relaxed Shela guesthouse and wellness retreat shaped around leafy courtyards, Swahili architecture and an inviting pool. Individually styled rooms, yoga, nourishing food and warm owner-led hospitality suit couples, solo travellers and families who prefer a personal, community-minded base within walking distance of the village and beach.
Kenya
Lamu House
A characterful waterfront hotel occupying restored Swahili houses in the heart of Lamu Old Town. Shaded courtyards, carved detail and three small pools offer calm within the town’s dense historic fabric, making it particularly good for travellers who want living heritage, dhow access and local streets immediately outside.
Kenya
Kijani Hotel
A small Shela hotel woven through tropical gardens and historic Swahili houses, with freshwater pools and a waterfront restaurant facing the channel. Quiet courtyards and individually arranged rooms suit couples and independent travellers who want architectural character, village life and easy access to both dhow trips and Shela Beach.
Kenya
The Majlis Resort
A polished beach resort on Manda Island’s Ras Kitau shore, facing Shela across the channel. Spacious rooms and suites, three pools, broad sands and full-service dining make it a dependable choice for couples and families who want resort comfort, water-based activities and straightforward boat access to Shela and Lamu Town.
Kenya
Peponi Hotel
A long-established Shela waterfront hotel whose shaded terraces, pool and sea-facing rooms have become part of the village’s character. Peponi suits couples and returning Lamu travellers who value attentive, unforced service, strong food and the pleasure of watching dhows move through the channel from a deeply rooted island address.
Kenya
Kenyan Coast
A complete guide to Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast: Diani, Mombasa, Watamu, Malindi and Lamu, with marine life, culture, tides and safari connections.