Vacation rentals in Lamu Island

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Lamu Island

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Guest favorite
An open-air seating area features spacious couches adorned with soft cushions. Light wood beams form the ceiling, providing a warm ambiance. The view overlooks a calm sea with distant boats, framed by lush greenery and tropical palm trees.
Villa in Shela
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 44 reviews

THE MOON HOUSES -Betty's suite

According to our clients, Betty's suite is a "treat"... Infinity pool on your own private terrace, amazing sea view and its famous bath tub (published in Condé Nast Traveler). It is the absolute location for honeymoon couple!! The house has a great sea view and few steps away from Shella Beach. Our homes are privately owned. They are built is pure Swahili Style and furnished with antiques. Our cooks, stewards, and managres are entirely devoted to your service. Your cook is trained to do all food errands and prepare all meals for you. You can select your meals from our guideline menu and you will be served in your rpivate dining area. Food is charged at cost and recorded in a book of accounts. Included in your stay: -Airport Transfert, -Cook and room steward -On-location manager who can assist you to organize local activities -Laundry service - Wifi

Guest favorite
A view of the serene sea is captured from a shaded terrace. Tropical greenery surrounds a small table adorned with a drink and decorative elements. Comfortable chairs provide a cozy spot to enjoy the picturesque landscape in a tranquil setting.
Home in Shela
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 51 reviews

shela greentreehouse seaview terrace freewifi

If you are looking for an AMAZING seaview from your own terrace in a well-furnished serviced, daily cleaned and healthy house, surrounded by green trees in a quiet and elegant corner of the beautiful Shela coast, just 2 minutes walk from shela beach,shops, bars and restaurants, you found it ! A maid takes care of the cleaning, shopping, ironing and washing in the morning hours. Upon request, we can arrange massages and dinners at home , pick up at the airport and sailing trip on our dhow Tailan

Guest favorite
Home in Shela
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 40 reviews

The Sand Dunes!

The breathtaking Sand Dunes is built with details that calm the eyes, mind & spirit. We are excited to offer this unique & tranquil getaway. Our Stunning 3 bedroom With AC home has all amenities needed for a short or long term getaway. We overlook the beautiful Shella dunes surrounded by palm trees that sway seemlessly with the birds morning songs. Your staff will handle all cleaning needs and caretaker meets you at seafront. A chef can join for a small fee &Boat transfers can be arranged.

Guest favorite
A shaded seating area features a low wooden table surrounded by a cozy bench with decorative pillows. Two patterned cushions are placed on the floor over a round mat. A view of the village and ocean can be seen in the background.
Apartment in Shela
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 67 reviews

Beautiful Rooftop Apartment

Khayrat Apartment, located in the heart of bustling Shela village is the perfect stay for your Lamu vacation. Our top floor apartment is made up of two floors, the bottom one consisting of two ensuite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy living room and two balconies. As comfortable as this floor is, our rooftop is the place to be! You'll have a 360 view of the village, the ocean and the sand dunes behind Shela, including amazing sunsets and sunrises. Khayrat apartment sleeps 4 people.

Top guest favorite
Sailboats with billowing sails glide across calm waters near Lamu Island. The shoreline is lined with greenery and structures, reflecting a serene coastal environment. Light catches on the surface of the water, creating a tranquil scene that showcases the beauty of the surroundings.
Home in Lamu
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

Exclusive Beach House, Shela Lamu, Kenya

Located 100 m from the Indian ocean, the house consists of 4 en suite rooms amongst which 2 master bedrooms and 2 standard berooms. Please note that we limit the number of guests to a maximum of 6 in order to preserve the house, avoid stressing our staff and maximise your experience as a guest. Each room is self contained and has a queen size bed. Two of the master bedrooms have their own private outside verandah. The house is let with a Cook who does also all the shopping and a House boy.

Guest favorite
The beachfront view showcases a charming villa surrounded by lush greenery and swaying palm trees. Two colorful boats are anchored in the foreground, with sandy beach and ocean visible, creating a serene coastal atmosphere.
Home in Shela
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 20 reviews

Swahili Paradise w/ Private Chef | Steps to Beach

Welcome to a place where the rhythm of the ocean sets the pace. As our guests consistently say, staying here is an experience in "pure paradise." Kinjarling is more than just a beautiful Swahili-style home—it's a fully-serviced retreat designed for ultimate relaxation, with our incredible staff and private chef ready to make your stay unforgettable. Just a one-minute stroll from the pristine sands of Shela Beach and right behind the legendary Peponi Hotel, our location is simply perfect.

Guest favorite
Chalet in Lamu
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 25 reviews

Private Beachfront House with Pool In Lamu

Shanti Sands is an exclusive and romantic beachfront hideaway on Manda Island, in Lamu. Fully staffed with a private chef and daily service, the villa features a private pool , two ensuite bedrooms with tropical outdoor showers and serene ocean views. Built with organically and powered by solar energy, it’s a haven of barefoot luxury and eco-sustainability. Perfect for Romantic couples retreat, families seeking privacy, Peace, and a magic escape accessible only by boat.#Kenyagetaway

Guest favorite
Home in Shela
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 14 reviews

Serene Coastal Hideaway Penthouse

Escape to this stunning Swahili-style penthouse, a serene hideaway perched above Shella Village. Designed with natural makuti roofing, coral-stone walls, and handcrafted wooden details, this space offers an authentic coastal charm blended with modern comfort, creating the perfect setting for relaxation, reading, or unwinding after a day at the beach. Ideal for couples, seeking something truly unique, this penthouse combines Lamu’s rich architecture with a cosy, home-like atmosphere.

Superhost
An inviting living space features soft, flowing curtains surrounding a wooden bench. Natural textures are highlighted through woven rugs and rustic ceiling beams. A decorative mirror is positioned along one wall, reflecting the tranquil ambiance of the room.
Vacation home in Lamu
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Jake apartment

A specious one bedroom apartment with a private kitchen, bathroom and living room. The upper terrace looks over Sheila’s graceful rooftops to the sea and is shared but rarely crowded. There are two girls who clean everyday and do laundry which is included. Ceiling fans and window breezes cool the apartment. Please bring your preferred shampoo & soap. We look forward to hosting you Please once are booked let me know arrival time one day before Thank

Guest favorite
The three-story structure showcases a white exterior with traditional Lamu architecture. Large arched windows are prominently displayed on the upper level, and double doors lead into the spacious interior. A thatched roof provides shade, and a ladder is visible against the side wall.
Home in Lamu
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 18 reviews

Umma House

Full house ready for guests! The typical Lamu courtyard is the center of it all, a serene space from which all other rooms emerge. The three-story building (360m2) with roof access offers an amazing view of the Indian Ocean under the makuti which protects from the rain and sunshine. This results in a beautiful, spacious and very comfortable house with "Umma House" as the name. The Villa has a total of three rooms all equipped with ensuite bathrooms.

Guest favorite
Apartment in Lamu
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 27 reviews

Artist’s Loft on Lamu Main Street, Old Town

Set along Usita wa Mui, the main street of Lamu Old Town, this flat is the first project of a graduate architect and artist (the host himself). Housed in a 700-year-old Swahili home, it combines history, craftsmanship, and art. The space doubles as a working studio and small gallery with mixed-media works. Facing the lively street, it carries the hum of daily life and stories below — a true immersion into the spirit and creativity of Lamu.

Guest favorite
A serene pool is positioned adjacent to an elegant entryway. The turquoise waters reflect surrounding architectural elements, while a staircase can be seen rising in the background. Lush greenery frames the scene, adding a touch of natural beauty to the tranquil setting.
Townhouse in Lamu
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Design Lover’s Dream, featured in WOI magazine '23

Interiors featured internationally in books and magazines, most recently in World of Interiors (Sept 2023). With its centuries-old charm, the White House offers a truly unique stay-full of character, lovingly maintained, infused with local heritage and of course a great pool! Your stay includes: - daily housekeeping - a private chef (Thomas) - airport pickup - daily breakfast - purified water - internet - organic toiletries

Popular amenities for Lamu vacation rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Lamu located?

    Lamu is a historic town situated on the northern coast of Kenya, along the Indian Ocean. It is part of the Lamu archipelago and has a vibrant blend of Swahili, Arab, and African influences.

  • When is the best time to visit Lamu?

    Travelers often suggest visiting Lamu during drier months when outdoor exploration is more comfortable. Mild temperatures and sea breezes can make island strolls and water activities pleasant throughout much of the year.

  • What are some things to do near Lamu?

    Lamu has traditional markets, dhow sailing excursions, and workshops specializing in woodcarving. Around the main town, you can explore historic sites, learn about Swahili culture, or enjoy mangrove forest walks.

  • How is the weather near Lamu?

    Lamu generally experiences a warm, tropical climate, with temperatures frequently in the upper 70s to mid-90s°F (mid-20s to mid-30s°C). Humidity can be high, and rain showers are more common in certain seasons, so light, breathable clothing is suggested.