A coastal town with white buildings, palm trees, and boats on the water.

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19 Aug - 20 Aug
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20 Aug - 21 Aug
This weekend
21 Aug - 23 Aug
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28 Aug - 30 Aug

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Our top choices for Shela hotels

Breakfast included
Hotel
Reserve now, pay later
Air conditioned
Pool
A room with two arched windows overlooking a body of water, a table with chairs, and a bottle of champagne.
A room with a traditional wooden ceiling, a hanging lantern, a window with a view of palm trees, and a table with chairs.
A view through an arched window of a body of water with several boats.
A room with a bed, a wooden chair, a small table, and a window with a view of greenery.

1. Kijani Hotel

Kijani Hotel
Lamu
United States
Gustavo
NZ$457
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Kijani Hotel
A bed with a canopy overlooking a balcony with a railing, a view of the sea with boats, and a thatched roof.
A room with a large star-shaped wall decoration, wooden beams on the ceiling, and a view of the sea through a window.
A beachfront restaurant with a view of the sea and boats.
A bed with a white mattress and pillows, a wooden frame, and a thatched roof.

2. Stopover Guest House Shela

Stopover Guest House Shela
Shela
NZ$179
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Stopover Guest House Shela

3. Shella Bahari Guest House

Shella Bahari Guest House
Lamu
United States
Rajesh
NZ$256
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Shella Bahari Guest House
A room with a thatched roof, a view of the sea, a sofa with cushions, and a table with a glass of drink and flowers.
A coastal view with a clear sky, a body of water, and buildings with a white facade and dark roofs.
A bed with a view of the sea, a thatched roof, and a white wall.
A dining area with a wooden table and chairs, a green cushioned bench, and a view of the outside.

4. Morocco House

Morocco House
Lamu
NZ$167
includes taxes & fees
19 Sept - 20 Sept
Morocco House
A tropical garden with thatched umbrellas, palm trees, and a variety of plants.
A dormitory room with two beds, a chair, and a table.
A thatched-roof outdoor dining area with wicker chairs and a central table.
A room with a bed covered by a white canopy, another bed in the background, and a woven rug on the floor.

5. Dudu Villas N Backpackers

Dudu Villas N Backpackers
Lamu
NZ$110
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Dudu Villas N Backpackers
A wooden balcony with a thatched roof overlooking a calm sea. There are two wicker chairs with cushions.
A bedroom with a bed, a canopy, a view of the sea, and a balcony with shutters.
A balcony with three arches, a wooden chair, and a table.
A hallway with a wooden table, a lamp, and a decorative star on the ceiling.

6. Lamu House Hotel

Lamu House Hotel
Lamu Old Town
United States
martin
NZ$280
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Lamu House Hotel
An outdoor seating area with a thatched roof, wooden furniture, and a view of surrounding buildings.
A narrow hallway with a wooden chair, a bed with a canopy, and a desk with a candle.
A two-story building with a pool, surrounded by greenery and a thatched-roof structure.
A pathway leading to a building with stone pillars and lush greenery.

7. Jannat House Lamu

Jannat House Lamu
Lamu Old Town
NZ$184
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Jannat House Lamu
A beachfront dining area with a fire pit, outdoor seating, and a view of the sea.
A traditional building with arched doorways and intricate designs, a pool reflecting the structure, and a tree providing shade.
A room with a large bed, a wooden lounge chair, a small table, and a hanging canopy.
A building with a dome, arched entrance, and potted plants.

8. The Majlis Hotel

The Majlis Hotel
Manda Island
United Kingdom
Paula
NZ$1,118
includes taxes & fees
29 Aug - 30 Aug
The Majlis Hotel
A four-poster bed with a white bedspread and a single red rose. There is a grey sofa and a small table in the background.
A multi-story building with balconies, a parked vehicle, and surrounding greenery.
A living room with two sofas, a red coffee table, a bed with a canopy, and a wall with patterned curtains.
A grassy outdoor area with a wooden table and chairs, a red slide, and a thatched-roof building in the background.

9. British Hotel Mpeketoni

British Hotel Mpeketoni
Mpeketoni
NZ$110
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
British Hotel Mpeketoni
A residential area with a thatched-roof structure, a small garden, and a white pickup truck parked nearby.
A room with a sofa set, a table, and chairs.
A bedroom with a bed, a ceiling fan, a wardrobe, and a door leading to another room.
A narrow pathway leading to a white building with a thatched-roof structure in the background.

10. Royal Park Hotel Mpeketoni

Royal Park Hotel Mpeketoni
Mpeketoni
NZ$78
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Royal Park Hotel Mpeketoni
A balcony with a hanging planter, a view of the sea, and a railing.
A bedroom with a bed, a ceiling fan, a window with curtains, and a decorative wall panel.
A living room with a sofa, a wooden chair, a coffee table, wall-mounted clocks, and a decorative wall panel.
A dining table set with plates, cutlery, and a coffee pot, with a sofa and chairs in the background.

11. Beytsalam

Beytsalam
Lamu Old Town
NZ$158
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Beytsalam
A multi-level interior with a central staircase, stone walls, and arched windows.
A view through a window of a coastal area with buildings, vegetation, and a body of water.
A multi-level interior with white staircases and walls, wooden door, and a small garden area.
An open-air pavilion with a thatched roof, wooden furniture, and a railing along the perimeter.

12. Kitendetini Bahari Hotel Lamu

Kitendetini Bahari Hotel Lamu
Lamu Old Town
NZ$110
includes taxes & fees
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Kitendetini Bahari Hotel Lamu
A thatched-roof outdoor seating area with a woven bench and a white cushion, surrounded by palm trees.
A dining area with wicker chairs and a round table, surrounded by potted plants and a view of palm trees.
A kitchen with a person cooking, a plate of food, and various kitchen appliances.
A bedroom with a bed under a canopy, a small table with chairs, and a window with a view of the outside.

13. Jambo House lamu

Jambo House lamu
Lamu Old Town
NZ$127
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Jambo House lamu
A multi-story building with arched balconies and a palm tree in the foreground.
A staircase with beige steps leading upwards, flanked by white walls and a window on the left.
A building with multiple arched windows and a white facade.
A spacious living area with a sofa, a coffee table, and a painting on the wall.

14. Jamala Guesthouse Lamu

Jamala Guesthouse Lamu
Lamu Old Town
NZ$123
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Jamala Guesthouse Lamu
A covered outdoor seating area with a bench and a sofa, overlooking a body of water.
A coastal road with boats docked on the water and a pedestrian path alongside.
A bed with a headboard, pillows, and a canopy.
A living room with a sofa set, a coffee table, and a wooden cabinet against the wall.

15. Stopover Guest House Lamu Town

Stopover Guest House Lamu Town
Lamu Old Town
NZ$151
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Stopover Guest House Lamu Town
A balcony with a view of boats on the water.
A four-poster bed with a canopy, a wooden desk with a chair, and a window with curtains.
A building with a sign for Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel and National Bank.
A reception area with a wooden counter, a ship model, and a sign reading "LAMUANHRIH RECEPTION".

16. Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel

Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel
Lamu Old Town
NZ$88
includes taxes & fees
19 Sept - 20 Sept
Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel
A wooden balcony with a view of a calm body of water and distant shoreline.
A traditional living room with wooden furniture, a glass coffee table, and patterned rugs.
A multi-story building with balconies and large windows, situated by a body of water.
A view through a metal gate with a curved arch, overlooking a body of water with boats and greenery in the background.

17. Beytul Habaib Lamu

Beytul Habaib Lamu
Lamu
NZ$145
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Beytul Habaib Lamu
A courtyard with a concrete bench, potted plants, and a wall.
A narrow concrete pathway flanked by planters and a wooden bench.
A room with a green floor, a table with chairs, a window, and a door.
A room with a bed, a ceiling fan, and a mosquito net.

18. Tabassam Guest House Lamu

Tabassam Guest House Lamu
Lamu Old Town
NZ$36
includes taxes & fees
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Tabassam Guest House Lamu
An ornate wooden door with a sign above reading "SUNSAIL HOTEL."
A hotel entrance with a sign reading "SUNSAIL HOTEL". There are outdoor tables and chairs, and a tree in the foreground.
A hallway with patterned floor tiles, white walls, and a sign reading "Brighton".

19. Lamu Sunsail Hotel

Lamu Sunsail Hotel
Lamu Old Town
France
David
NZ$59
includes taxes & fees
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Lamu Sunsail Hotel
A multi-level interior with a staircase, a window with bars, and a door with a red frame.
A balcony with two woven benches, a tiled floor, and a view of a building with a red roof.
Two wooden beds with plaid bedding in a room with a plain wall and a window with curtains.
A worn metal sign with the text "BEVERLY'S KITCHEN" above a wooden door.

20. Sea Shells Inn

Sea Shells Inn
Lamu Old Town
United Kingdom
Aran
NZ$20
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Sea Shells Inn
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Stay near popular Shela attractions

Old Mosque

8.8/10 (3 reviews)
After visiting Old Mosque, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Shela.
See properties

Learn more about Shela

Venture to sights like Shela Beach as you discover the local area in Shela.

See all hotels in Shela
A coastal town with white buildings, palm trees, and boats on the water.

Top Shela Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Shela

Kijani Hotel

Kijani Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"."
Huw 2-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Kijani Hotel
Lamu House Hotel

Lamu House Hotel

8/10 Good
"Beautiful hotel with lovely rooms, full of character. We had a very nice stay here. Only downsides were that the breakfast portions were very small….unnecessarily so…and the (main) restaurant waitress looked miserable, however the rest of the staff were lovely and the hotel is very nice."
Nick 3-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Lamu House Hotel
The Majlis Hotel

The Majlis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Absolutely lovely property."
Gerald 3-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
The Majlis Hotel
Peponi Hotel

Peponi Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"What an absolute gem. From the second you're greeted off the plane by the team who help you on the boat to the island until the moment you leave, everyone is super friendly including the dogs! Comfy giant beds, powerful showers, refreshing pool with lots of shady lounging spots, gorgeous vistas, delicious food, punchy cocktails and a long stretch of pristine beach. Great location for day trips or just unwinding on site. We will be back."
Kirsty 3-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
Peponi Hotel
Penthouse Apartment. Shela, Lamu.

Penthouse Apartment. Shela, Lamu.

10/10 Excellent
"The room was clean and beautiful. The staff was excellent. And very friendly."
Don 7-night trip
Posted 7 months ago
Penthouse Apartment. Shela, Lamu.

More cheap accommodation in Shela

Sea Shells Inn

Sea Shells Inn

Harambee Street, lamu Lamu Lamu County
NZ$20
26 Aug - 27 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (2 reviews)
Sea Shells Inn
Dudu Villas N Backpackers

Dudu Villas N Backpackers

Lamu Shela road Talking Trees Beach, Lamu
NZ$110
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Dudu Villas N Backpackers
Beytsalam

Beytsalam

Lamu Lamu Lamu County
NZ$158
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Beytsalam
Kizingo Beach Eco Lodge

Kizingo Beach Eco Lodge

Kzingo Lamu Lamu County
Get rates
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
Kizingo Beach Eco Lodge
New Mahrus Hotel & Rooftop Restaurant

New Mahrus Hotel & Rooftop Restaurant

Kenyatta Road, Lamu Lamu Lamu County
Get ratesNew Mahrus Hotel & Rooftop Restaurant
Sweet Banana House

Sweet Banana House

MOI ROAD Lamu
Get ratesSweet Banana House

Find out more about Shela

Top reasons to visit Shela

  • Stunning Beaches: Shela Beach boasts soft sands and tranquil waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Cultural Immersion: Engage with local traditions and festivals that celebrate the rich heritage of Lamu.
  • Historic Sites: Explore nearby forts and museums to learn about the fascinating history of the region.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a variety of sporting options, including sailing along the picturesque coastline.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from a range of budget-friendly lodgings that reflect local culture.

Find great hotels in and around Shela

Experience the charm of Shela with a variety of accommodation options tailored for every type of traveller. From the inviting Jua House and Lamu House Hotel to the serene Beachside Villa and Dudu Villas, you'll find the perfect base for your adventure. Whether you're seeking a beach getaway or a business-friendly stay, Shela offers a unique blend of comfort and local culture, ensuring a memorable visit to this beautiful part of Lamu County.

  • The Majlis Hotel: The Majlis Hotel is a delightful 3.5-star accommodation located 1.1km from Shela, perfect for those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and adventure. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this hotel offers direct beach access and a variety of onsite adventure sports, including helicopter tours, boat excursions, hiking, and fishing. The family-friendly amenities include complimentary cribs, highchairs, and babysitting services, ensuring that younger guests are well cared for. The Majlis Hotel combines comfort with exciting recreational activities, making it an ideal choice for families and adventure seekers alike.
  • Kijani Hotel: Kijani Hotel, a charming 3-star property located in the heart of Shela, boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This hotel offers direct beach access and is tailored for both business and leisure travellers. Guests can indulge in various water activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and snorkelling, all available onsite or nearby. The hotel's inviting atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to the beach, makes it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of adventure and professional convenience. Kijani Hotel is a fantastic option for those looking to mix business with pleasure in a stunning coastal setting.
  • Peponi Hotel: Rated a perfect 10 out of 10, Peponi Hotel is a 3.5-star gem situated in Shela, offering a serene beach getaway for families. With direct access to the beach, this hotel provides a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation and family bonding. The property includes essential amenities for children, such as highchairs, ensuring families can enjoy their stay comfortably. Peponi Hotel's focus on family-friendly service, combined with its beautiful beachfront location, makes it an ideal retreat for those looking to unwind and create lasting memories.

Where to stay in Shela

Shela, a charming village on Lamu Island, offers a unique blend of stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences. Explore the pristine Shela Dunes, unwind by the tranquil sea, and immerse yourself in the local history and traditions. The atmosphere of ecotourism and budget-friendly options makes it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway. Discover the vibrant community and picturesque surroundings that make Shela a perfect spot for a relaxing holiday.

  • Lamu: Known as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lamu is a vibrant coastal city rich in Swahili culture and history. It boasts narrow winding streets, traditional wooden dhows, and stunning beaches that attract visitors year-round, particularly during the peak months of July and December to January. Here, you can engage in a variety of activities such as sailing, exploring historic forts, and enjoying local cuisine at beachside restaurants. Lamu's picturesque landscape and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
  • Manda Island: Just 4.8km from Shela, Manda Island offers a tranquil escape with pristine beaches and serene outdoor experiences. It experiences moderate seasonal visitor numbers, notably peaking in October and December to January. The island is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind amid nature. Visitors can explore historic sites and enjoy the beauty of the coastline while indulging in various water activities. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make Manda Island a lovely spot for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter retreat.
  • Pate Island: Located 30.6km from Shela, Pate Island is steeped in history and culture, making it an intriguing destination for travellers. With moderate seasonal visitor traffic, particularly in October and December to January, it offers a unique glimpse into the Swahili way of life. The island is home to various historic sites and places that tell the tale of its rich past. Pate Island is ideal for those interested in cultural exploration and offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to its neighbours.

Things to do in Shela

Shopping

In Shela, enjoy local shops offering handcrafted souvenirs, textiles, and unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Lamu Old Town markets, around 19.3km away, where you can find traditional crafts, spices, and local art, all reflecting the rich culture of Lamu.

Recreation

In Shela, the Lamu Yoga Centre offers serene yoga classes on the beach, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Nearby, the Jambo Village Resort features rejuvenating spa therapies that incorporate local herbs, allowing you to unwind amid tranquil gardens and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Adventure

In Shela, explore the beautiful beaches and enjoy swimming or sunbathing. Try kite surfing for an adrenaline rush or take a dhow trip to nearby islands for stunning views and wildlife spotting. Engage with local culture through traditional Swahili cooking classes for a unique culinary experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Shela by visiting Jambo Restaurant for a mix of local cuisine and lively music. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Shela Beach Bar, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying the stunning ocean views and the sound of the waves.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Shela

Shela in Lamu County, Kenya, offers a delightful blend of beach and cultural experiences. Visitors can relax on Shela Beach, soak up the sun, and explore local history at nearby historic forts and museums. This charming destination is perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation.

  • German Post Office Museum: Located 3.2km away from Shela, this museum offers a glimpse into the colonial history of Lamu through its unique collection, showcasing the cultural impact of the German presence in the region.
  • Shela Beach: A mere 966m from Shela, this stunning beach invites visitors to relax on its soft sands, enjoy the warm sun, and take in breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, embodying a true beach vibe.
  • Lamu Fort: Situated 3.2km from Shela, this historic fort stands as a testament to Lamu's rich heritage, featuring impressive architecture and offering insights into the island's storied past, all within a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Best time to go to Shela

The best time to visit Shela can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Shela falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Shela falls in August, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January81.1°F (27.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February81.5°F (27.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March82.9°F (28.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April83.1°F (28.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
May80.6°F (27.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June79.3°F (26.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August77.7°F (25.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
September78.4°F (25.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November81.1°F (27.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shela

Getting to Shela in Lamu County is convenient with two major airports nearby. Lamu Airport (LAU-Manda) is only 4.8km away, with excellent hotel options like Peponi Hotel and The Majlis Hotel, both offering airport shuttles and free transportation services. Malindi Airport (MYD), located 138.4km away, has luxurious hotels such as Ocean Beach Resort & Spa and Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa, providing various transport options like 24-hour shuttles and airport transfers. The proximity of Lamu Airport makes it the ideal choice for a seamless arrival to your destination in Shela.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Shela?
The best area to stay in Shela is directly within Shela Village itself, particularly along the beachfront and the winding paths just behind it.Shela Village is the heart of the area, a peaceful and picturesque settlement known for its narrow, sandy pathways, traditional Swahili architecture, and the absence of cars. Most accommodations are either right on the beach, offering direct access to the ocean, or located a short walk inland amongst local homes and boutique guesthouses. The main jetty, where dhows arrive and depart, is a central point, as is Peponi Hotel, a well-known landmark.Couples looking for a tranquil and romantic getaway will find Shela Village ideal. The quiet lanes, ocean views, and opportunities for dhow trips at sunset create a very relaxing atmosphere. Many of the guesthouses offer private balconies or terraces, superb for enjoying the sea breeze.For those interested in local culture and a slower pace of life, the village offers a genuine experience. You'll find small shops selling local crafts and a few delightful restaurants serving fresh seafood.
When is the best time to go to Shela?
The best time to visit Shela is during the dry seasons, typically from July to October and from December to March.These months offer warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall, which is superb for enjoying the beaches, water activities, and exploring the island. The gentle ocean breeze keeps temperatures comfortable, making it ideal for relaxing by the ocean or taking dhow trips.Couples often find the period between December and March particularly appealing for a romantic getaway. The weather is consistently pleasant, and the calm seas are superb for sunset cruises and swimming. It's also a popular time for cultural festivals in Lamu Town, which is a short dhow ride away.For those looking for a slightly quieter experience while still enjoying excellent weather, July to October is a great option.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Shela.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Shela with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Shela hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Shela?
Prices for hotels in Shela often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$20 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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