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

Find hotels in Shela from Rp217.450

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Tomorrow
11 Aug - 12 Aug
This weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug
Next weekend
21 Aug - 23 Aug

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Our top choices for Shela hotels

1. Kijani Hotel

Kijani Hotel
Lamu
United States
Gustavo
Rp4.095.013
Rp4.832.115 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Kijani Hotel

2. Stopover Guest House Shela

Stopover Guest House Shela
Shela
Rp1.610.730
Rp1.900.662 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Stopover Guest House Shela

3. Shella Bahari Guest House

Shella Bahari Guest House
Lamu
United States
Rajesh
Rp2.381.211
Rp2.809.829 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Shella Bahari Guest House

4. Morocco House

Morocco House
Lamu
Rp1.516.695
Rp1.789.700 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Morocco House

5. Dudu Villas N Backpackers

Dudu Villas N Backpackers
Lamu
Rp985.852
Rp1.163.305 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Dudu Villas N Backpackers

6. Lamu House Hotel

Lamu House Hotel
Lamu Old Town
United States
martin
Rp2.659.315
Rp3.137.991 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Lamu House Hotel

7. The Majlis Hotel

The Majlis Hotel
Manda Island
United Kingdom
Paula
Rp10.010.150
Rp11.812.020 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
The Majlis Hotel

8. Sea Shells Inn

Sea Shells Inn
Lamu Old Town
United Kingdom
Aran
Rp184.279
Rp217.450 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Sea Shells Inn

9. Royal Park Hotel Mpeketoni

Royal Park Hotel Mpeketoni
Mpeketoni
Rp715.880
Rp844.739 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Royal Park Hotel Mpeketoni

10. British Hotel Mpeketoni

British Hotel Mpeketoni
Mpeketoni
Rp984.335
Rp1.161.516 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
British Hotel Mpeketoni

11. Stopover Guest House Lamu Town

Stopover Guest House Lamu Town
Lamu Old Town
Rp1.369.120
Rp1.615.561 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Stopover Guest House Lamu Town

12. Beytsalam

Beytsalam
Lamu Old Town
Rp1.474.176
Rp1.739.528 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Beytsalam

13. Kitendetini Bahari Hotel Lamu

Kitendetini Bahari Hotel Lamu
Lamu Old Town
Rp984.335
Rp1.161.516 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Kitendetini Bahari Hotel Lamu

14. Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel

Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel
Lamu Old Town
Rp805.365
Rp950.330 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Lamu Archipelago Villa Hotel

15. Tabassam Guest House Lamu

Tabassam Guest House Lamu
Lamu Old Town
Rp322.146
Rp380.132 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Tabassam Guest House Lamu

16. Jannataan Hotel

Jannataan Hotel
Lamu Old Town
Australia
ROLAND
Rp819.015
Rp966.437 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Jannataan Hotel

17. Jannat House Lamu

Jannat House Lamu
Lamu Old Town
Rp1.691.266
Rp1.995.694 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Jannat House Lamu

18. Beytul Habaib Lamu

Beytul Habaib Lamu
Lamu
Rp1.369.120
Rp1.615.561 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Beytul Habaib Lamu

19. Jamala Guesthouse Lamu

Jamala Guesthouse Lamu
Lamu Old Town
Rp1.127.511
Rp1.330.463 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Jamala Guesthouse Lamu

20. Jambo House lamu

Jambo House lamu
Lamu Old Town
Rp1.181.202
Rp1.393.818 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Jambo House lamu
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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

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 1 day ago
Lamu House Hotel
Kizingo Beach Eco Lodge

Kizingo Beach Eco Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Kizingo Eco Lodge lived up exactly to what we were looking for: a totally off-the-beaten track eco lodge (consisting of 8 'banda' straw guest bungaloes), well away from the hustle and bustle of Lamu Town and Shela. Its location could not be more perfect: one corner of the lodge faces the Indian Ocean, while the other faces the river/mangrove area (which also boasts the nicest sunsets in all of Lamu). From our banda, built on stilts into the dunes, we could hear the waves of the Indian Ocean and feel the ocean breeze blow through our room every night. The staff attended to our ever need, so despite being the only guests during our stay, we never felt alone. We combined 4 nights here with one night in Shela, which felt like an appropriate balance for us between spending time with nature vs. learning more about Lamu Town, its history and its culture. (To be clear, Kizingo's thatched roof bandas made largely of straw and reeds are more open to the elements than even a Safari tent (which have zippers, etc), so come prepared to be at one with nature.)"
Claudio 3-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Kizingo Beach Eco Lodge
The Majlis Hotel

The Majlis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Absolutely lovely property."
Gerald 3-night trip
Posted 3 weeks 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
Kijani Hotel

Kijani Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"This was a cool relaxed place. The food, both breakfast and dinner, were good and there was evn gluten free banana pancakes 🙂. The staff were great and helped organise trips. The pool was as refreshing in the midday heat. Would definitely recommend. "
Joseph 2-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
Kijani Hotel

More cheap stays in Shela

Sea Shells Inn

Sea Shells Inn

Harambee Street, lamu Lamu Lamu County
Rp184.279
Rp217.450 total
11 Aug - 12 Aug
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
Sea Shells Inn
Dudu Villas N Backpackers

Dudu Villas N Backpackers

Lamu Shela road Talking Trees Beach, Lamu
Rp985.852
Rp1.163.305 total
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Dudu Villas N Backpackers
Beytsalam

Beytsalam

Lamu Lamu Lamu County
Rp1.474.176
Rp1.739.528 total
11 Aug - 12 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 boasts beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in serene waters.
  • Cultural Richness: Engage with the vibrant local culture through festivals, live music, and traditional ceremonies.
  • Historic Exploration: Discover the area's history by visiting ancient forts and museums that narrate its past.
  • Picturesque Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views at Shela Dunes, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of charming guesthouses and hotels, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels in and around Shela

Discover a delightful array of accommodations in Shela, Lamu, ranging from charming guesthouses to inviting hotels. Whether you're seeking a family vacation by the beach or need facilities for business travel, Shela has something for everyone. Notable options include Jua House, La Joya Lamu, Lamu House Hotel, Beachside Villa, and Dudu Villas, each offering unique experiences to make your stay memorable.

  • The Majlis Hotel: Situated 1km from Shela, The Majlis Hotel offers a family-friendly beach experience with a rating of 9.2 out of 10. This 3.5-star hotel is ideal for families seeking quality time by the sea. With direct beach access, guests can enjoy sun-soaked days and fun-filled activities. The hotel is designed with children in mind, providing amenities such as toys for babies, a first aid kit, babysitting services, and complimentary cribs and highchairs. Families will find a welcoming atmosphere that caters to both relaxation and adventure.
  • Kijani Hotel: Located within Shela, Kijani Hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10 and is a 3-star accommodation that appeals to adventure seekers and business travellers alike. With its prime beach access, guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports, including onsite snorkelling and rafting, as well as nearby swimming and canoeing opportunities. The hotel harmoniously combines work and play, making it an ideal choice for those looking to blend business with leisure in a stunning coastal setting.
  • Peponi Hotel: Renowned for its romantic allure, Peponi Hotel is a 3.5-star property situated in Shela, receiving an impressive rating of 10.0 out of 10. With direct access to the beach, this hotel is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Guests can enjoy ocean views from the restaurant and indulge in special romance packages that include champagne service. The onsite spa offers couples treatments and deep tissue massages, while the inviting pool area provides a serene space for relaxation, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable experience.

Where to stay in Shela

Shela, a charming village on Lamu Island, offers a captivating blend of beach relaxation and rich cultural experiences. Explore the stunning Shela Dunes for breathtaking views and enjoy the serene sea in Shela, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Immerse yourself in the local culture and history as you wander through the picturesque streets. Nearby Lamu Town, with its historical significance, adds to the allure, making Shela an ideal destination for ecotourism and cultural exploration.

  • Lamu: Nestled on the coast of Kenya, Lamu is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and stunning beach landscapes. As the gateway to Shela, Lamu attracts visitors year-round, with peak tourist seasons in July and during the festive months of December to January. Travellers flock here for its beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, and thrilling activities such as sailing and local tours. The city is dotted with historical landmarks, including ancient forts and monuments that tell tales of its storied past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
  • Manda Island: Located a mere 5km from Shela, Manda Island is a serene retreat known for its pristine beaches and outdoor adventures. This idyllic island experiences moderate seasonal tourist traffic, with peak visits in October and December, making it an excellent spot for those seeking a tranquil escape. Visitors are drawn to Manda Island's beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities, such as swimming and sunbathing. The island is also home to historic sites that provide a glimpse into the region's past, ensuring a rich cultural experience alongside its natural beauty.
  • Lamu Old Town: Just 3km from Shela, Lamu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the best of Swahili architecture and culture. This historic neighbourhood attracts a steady stream of visitors, particularly during the peak months of October and December. Lamu Old Town is renowned for its narrow streets, bustling markets, and traditional wooden dhows lining the waterfront. Tourists can explore local forts, monuments, and beaches, immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture while indulging in the area's rich history.

Things to do in Shela

Shopping

In Shela, explore local shops for unique souvenirs like handcrafted ornaments and traditional textiles. For a wider selection, if you're up for a drive, visit Lamu Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods, or check out the boutiques in Lamu Town for more options.

Recreation

In Shela, Lamu, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the iconic Peponi Hotel Spa, where holistic therapies blend with coastal charm. Engage in yoga sessions on the beach, allowing the soothing waves to enhance your mindfulness and relaxation amidst the stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Adventure

Explore the pristine beaches of Shela, where soft sands meet turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Venture into the winding streets of Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and savour the rich Swahili culture and stunning architecture while sampling local cuisine from waterfront eateries.

Nightlife

Experience the laid-back vibe at the Shela Beach Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails while listening to waves lapping the shore. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Peponi Hotel's bar, featuring a mix of music and local dishes that complement the stunning coastal views.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shela

To save money on your trip to Shela, consider visiting during the low season of April to May or November when prices drop. Booking your accommodation at least three months in advance can lead to significant savings, and Monday is the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find deals by sorting hotels from lowest to highest price and filtering for eco-friendly options. Additionally, you can save further by bundling flights and activities with your hotel booking. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals to secure the best rates.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Shela are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Shela is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Shela is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Shela is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you favour. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will present you with a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable options and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Shela hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Shela

Shela, Lamu, is perfect for beach and culture-themed holidays, offering attractions like Shela Beach, historic forts, and museums steeped in history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the stunning beach experience. Whether you’re lounging on Shela Beach or exploring the rich heritage of the area, there’s something for every traveller seeking relaxation and cultural enrichment.

  • Manda Beach: Located 1km from Shela, Manda Beach offers a tranquil escape with its soft sands and serene waters. Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes, perfect for sunbathing or taking leisurely strolls along the shoreline.
  • Lamu Fort: Situated 3km from Shela, Lamu Fort is a historic landmark steeped in rich cultural heritage. Explore its ancient walls and learn about the history of Lamu, where local traditions and stories come alive.
  • German Post Office Museum: Also 3km from Shela, this museum showcases Lamu's colonial history through fascinating exhibits. The cultural vibes invite visitors to delve into the past and appreciate the influence of German architecture on the island.

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

Accessing Shela in Lamu County, Kenya, is convenient via two major airports. Lamu (LAU-Manda) is the closest, situated 5km away, with nearby accommodation options such as Peponi Hotel and The Majlis Hotel, both offering complimentary airport transportation. Malindi (MYD), located 138km from Shela, provides hotel options like Ocean Beach Resort & Spa and Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa, which feature on-request airport shuttle services. Billionaire Beachfront Apartments, also near Malindi, offers transfers and shuttles for guests. These hotels ensure a seamless connection to the respective airports, allowing for a pleasant start to your vacation.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place for a stay in Shela?
Kijani Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data. This hotel offers a full-service spa and free breakfast. Other good options for your visit include Peponi Hotel and Stopover Guest House Shela. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Shela.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Shela, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel reservations are refundable if you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your check-in date. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and receive a refund within 24 hours of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Shela.
What's the best dog-friendly place to stay in Shela?
Peponi Hotel is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets, and offers 3 restaurants and an outdoor pool for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Shela.
What's the best hotel to stay near the beach in Shela?
Peponi Hotel is a top beachfront hotel offering 3 restaurants and 3 bars/lounges, located within a short 1-minute walk of Shela Beach . Kijani Hotel is another good choice for your beach trip. See more stays near the beach in Shela.
What are some hotels with pools in Shela?
Kijani Hotel: Features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool and daily. Peponi Hotel and Msafini MangoTop Roof Hotel are a couple of other choices that offer an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Shela.
What is the best spa hotel in Shela?
Kijani Hotel is a top beach spa hotel featuring a shopping centre, a bar, an outdoor pool and a restaurant. Enjoy a massage at the on-site spa. See all spa hotels in Shela.
What is staying in Shela like?
Visitors to Shela will definitely find plenty to explore and enjoy. In Shela, there are 19 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Shela.
What should I do while I'm visiting Shela?
A favourite place to visit is Shela Beach. You'll also find Lamu Fort and Manda Beach in the area. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Shela guide.
What's the weather like in Shela?
The hottest months are usually March and February, with an average temperature of 28°C, while the coldest months are August and September, with an average of 26°C. Average annual precipitation for Shela is 736 mm.