Shela Hotels

Top reasons to visit Shela

• Idyllic Beaches: Shela Beach features pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage with vibrant local traditions, including live music and colourful festivals.
• Historical Exploration: Discover significant sites like ancient forts and a history museum that showcase the region's rich past.
• Scenic Dunes: The stunning Shela Dunes offer a picturesque landscape for exploration and photography.
• Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of charming guesthouses and beachfront hotels suited for various budgets and preferences.

Find great hotels in and around Shela

Discover an array of charming accommodations in Shela, Lamu, ranging from inviting guesthouses to beachfront hotels. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly getaway, or a convenient base for business travel, options like Jua House, La Joya Lamu, Lamu House Hotel, Beachside Villa, and Dudu Villas cater to every need. Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and warm hospitality that Shela has to offer.

• The Majlis Hotel: This charming 3.5-star hotel, located 1km from Shela, is ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, The Majlis Hotel offers direct beach access and a variety of adventure sports. Guests can enjoy mountain biking, sailing, and canoeing, all available onsite. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including cribs and toys. The serene setting combined with recreational activities makes it a suitable choice for those looking to create lasting memories by the sea.
• Kijani Hotel: Boasting a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this 3-star hotel is nestled in Shela, providing easy access to the beach. Kijani Hotel is particularly appealing for those seeking a relaxing getaway, complete with a full spa and outdoor pool. Guests can indulge in various activities such as windsurfing and motorboating, while the onsite spa offers daily massages and treatments. The tranquil atmosphere and focus on wellness make it an excellent choice for travellers looking to unwind after a day of adventure.
• Peponi Hotel: This highly-rated 3.5-star hotel, with a perfect guest rating of 10.0 out of 10, is set in the picturesque Shela area. Peponi Hotel caters to beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering direct access to the sandy shores. Activities such as snorkelling, fishing, and kayaking are readily available nearby, ensuring a vibrant and active stay. The combination of stunning beachfront views and a multitude of water sports makes it a compelling option for those keen on experiencing the beauty and excitement of Lamu.

Where to stay in Shela

Shela, a charming village in Lamu County, offers an idyllic blend of pristine beaches and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Shela Dunes, relax by the inviting sea, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. The enchanting atmosphere of ecotourism and historical significance makes Shela an ideal destination for budget travellers seeking unique adventures in a tranquil setting.

• Lamu: Lamu is a vibrant city that serves as the heart of the region. Situated on the coast, it's known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning beaches. Travellers flock to Lamu year-round, with peak periods in July and December to January. The city's cultural allure is complemented by activities such as sailing and soccer. Key attractions include the historic fort and the picturesque beaches, making Lamu a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
• Manda Island: Located approximately 5km from Shela, Manda Island is a serene getaway that offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The island experiences moderate seasonal visitor numbers, with peaks in October and December to January. Manda Island is famed for its pristine beaches and unique historic sites, providing an enriching experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for leisurely exploration and outdoor adventures.
• Lamu Old Town: Just 3km from Shela, Lamu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its preserved Swahili architecture and vibrant culture. This neighbourhood attracts a moderate number of visitors, particularly during October and the festive months of December to January. Lamu Old Town is steeped in history, with landmarks such as ancient forts and monuments that tell the story of the region's past. Its charming streets and local markets offer an immersive cultural experience, making it a must-visit destination.

Things to do in Shela

Shopping

In Shela, you can explore the charming local shops for unique handicrafts and souvenirs, perfect for capturing your memories. If you're up for a drive, visit the Lamu Market, about 16km away, where you can find local spices, textiles, and artisan goods to take home.

Recreation

At Jambo House in Shela, indulge in holistic therapies that blend traditional and modern techniques, surrounded by serene coastal views. Alternatively, the Lamu Yoga Centre offers rejuvenating yoga sessions on the beach, allowing you to connect with nature while enhancing your mind-body wellness.

Adventure

In Shela, explore pristine beaches and enjoy kite surfing along the azure waters. Discover the historic Swahili architecture on leisurely walks through the village. For wildlife enthusiasts, take a boat trip to spot dolphins and vibrant marine life in the nearby waters of the Indian Ocean.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at the Shela Beach Bar, where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and stunning ocean views. For a lively night, visit the popular Peponi Hotel, known for its intimate setting and occasional live music events, offering a taste of local culture and hospitality.

Find the best attractions near Shela

Shela, a charming destination in Lamu County, Kenya, offers an ideal blend of beach and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore Shela Beach, renowned for its stunning sands and azure waters, along with historic sites such as a fort and a history museum. This picturesque locale caters to those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion, making it a perfect getaway for travellers.

• Shela Beach: Located 966m from Shela, Shela Beach offers a serene escape with its soft sands and gentle waves. Ideal for relaxation, visitors can soak up the sun or enjoy local seafood delights at nearby beachside eateries.
• German Post Office Museum: Situated 3km from Shela, this museum showcases the rich cultural history of Lamu through the lens of its colonial past. Visitors can explore fascinating artefacts and learn about the region's unique heritage.
• Takwa Ruins: Approximately 5km from Shela, the Takwa Ruins are remnants of a once-thriving Swahili settlement. This historic site offers a glimpse into the architectural brilliance and cultural practices of the Swahili people.

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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	81.1°F (27.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	81.5°F (27.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	79.3°F (26.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	81.1°F (27.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shela

Accessing Shela is convenient via two major airports. Lamu Airport (LAU-Manda) is merely 5km away, with nearby hotels such as Peponi Hotel and The Majlis Hotel offering free transportation services and 24-hour airport shuttles. Malindi Airport (MYD), located 138km from Shela, has excellent hotel options like Ocean Beach Resort & Spa and Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa, both just 3km from the airport, providing on-request shuttles and free transportation services. Billionaire Beachfront Apartments is another option, situated 6km away from Malindi Airport. With these choices, reaching Shela from either airport is straightforward and comfortable.