The Sands at Chale Island

Location: Chale Island is located just south of the equator, 10km from Diani Beach and 600m from the mainland. Crossing over is possible around the clock by boat or tractor (tide dependent). 

How to get here: One can reach Chale Island by a short flight and ride from Nairobi to Ukunda, or from Mombasa.

Structure: The Island is 1.2 km long and 0.8 km wide and is divided into two parts: the Hotel Resort and a sacred forest, called “Kaya”. A 60000 sqm large nature reserve surrounds the chalets. Endangered sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach each season. The wide sandy bay is protected by a mighty coral reef. Inside the island is a mangrove lake fed by seawater with the natural changing of the tides. 

A blend of Swahili style architecture and furniture, African art and varnished mahogany characterizes the hotel. Chale Island uses electricity generators to supply energy, some rooms are supplied with power between 6 pm and 10 am, while others for 24 hours a day. There are 61 non-smoking rooms. All units are furnished in a traditional Swahili style with sea views, individually controlled air-conditioning, fan, shower/WC and balcony or terrace.

Why staying here: Kenya’s beaches rank in the top ten worldwide and Chale Island’s coral sand bay counts as one of the best that Kenya has to offer. The secluded bay is covered with snow-white powder fine coral sand and due to the remoteness of the island is the only beach in Kenya that can truly be called private.