Shela Beach: A Serene Escape on the Kenyan Coast
Experience the tranquil beauty of Shela Beach, a hidden paradise on the Kenyan coast perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Kenya, Shela Beach is a tropical paradise that beckons travelers with its soft sands and tranquil waters. Ideal for relaxation, this beach not only offers stunning views but also a chance to immerse in the local culture and experience unforgettable sunsets. Whether you're lounging under a palm tree or exploring the vibrant marine life, Shela Beach promises a rejuvenating getaway for all who visit.
A brief summary to Shela beach
- PW38+55W, Shela, KE
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for stunning sunrises and sunsets.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be quite strong, especially during midday.
- Explore the local village of Shela to experience authentic Swahili culture and cuisine.
- Consider renting a kayak to explore the scenic coastline and nearby islands.
- Keep your camera ready for the breathtaking views and unique wildlife.
Getting There
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Boat
From the main waterfront area of Lamu, look for a local boat station. You can hire a traditional dhow or a motorized boat to take you to Shela beach. The ride typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to negotiate the fare before boarding. Once you’re on the boat, enjoy the scenic views of the coastline as you head towards Shela.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, you can take the path leading out of Lamu town towards the beach. Head towards the south, passing through the narrow streets filled with shops and local vendors. Keep walking until you reach the end of the old town; you will see signs directing you towards Shela. This walk will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace, and you will be greeted with local scenery and the chance to interact with residents along the way.
Discover more about Shela beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beach House
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Kenyan coastline at Beach House, where relaxation and adventure await in a stunning beachfront setting.
Peponi Hotel Lamu
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Lamu at Peponi Hotel, where luxury meets the vibrant culture of Shela on Kenya's stunning coast.
Tusitiri Dhow
0.3 km
Discover Lamu's stunning waters with Tusitiri Dhow – an unforgettable sailing experience steeped in culture and tradition.
Shela White House
0.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and luxury at Shela White House in Malindi, a serene resort hotel for every traveler.
Moyoni House
0.3 km
Experience the essence of coastal Kenya at Moyoni House, a tranquil villa in Shela, offering luxury, culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Shella Royal House
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Shella Royal House, a luxurious hotel in Shela Village, perfect for relaxation and coastal adventures.
Forodhani House
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Forodhani House on Shela Beach, a perfect blend of Swahili culture and modern comfort in Lamu, Kenya.
Shela lamu
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Shela, Lamu – a hidden paradise on Kenya's coast perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Fatumas Tower
0.4 km
Discover the tranquility and cultural richness of Fatuma's Tower in Shela, Lamu - a perfect retreat for relaxation and exploration.
Shella Bahari Guest House
0.4 km
Discover the beauty of Shela at Shella Bahari Guest House, where comfort meets the stunning coastal scenery and rich local culture.
Sea Suq
0.4 km
Experience the flavors of Shela at Sea Suq, where fresh ingredients and local culinary traditions come together in a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Gelamu Cafe
0.4 km
Discover the delightful Gelamu Cafe in Shela, where delicious ice cream meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable treat.
Jaha House
0.5 km
Discover Jaha House in Shela, a tranquil holiday home offering comfort, beauty, and access to Kenya's stunning beaches and rich local culture.
Jua House
0.5 km
Experience authentic coastal living and relaxation at Jua House, your perfect getaway in the serene village of Shela, Kenya.
Kijani Hotel
0.6 km
Discover a tranquil oceanfront retreat at Kijani Hotel in Lamu, where traditional Swahili charm meets modern comfort, perfect for a serene getaway.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shela
0.3 km
Explore Shela, where pristine beaches meet rich Swahili culture, offering an unforgettable experience on the Kenyan coast.
Lamu Local Artist Shop (Shella)
0.4 km
Explore Lamu's artistic heritage at the Lamu Local Artist Shop, where creativity meets sustainability in unique handicrafts and garden furniture.
Ubunifu Lamu Community Art Center
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant art and culture of Lamu at the Ubunifu Lamu Community Art Center, a hub for creativity and local heritage.
Shela dunes
1.3 km
Explore the stunning Shela Dunes, a serene Kenyan paradise with breathtaking views, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Floating Bar & Restaurant Lamu
1.7 km
Discover the enchanting Floating Bar & Restaurant in Lamu, where ocean views and delicious local cuisine create an unforgettable dining experience.
Ras Kitao
1.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ras Kitao, a stunning coastal attraction in Shela, Kenya, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Manda Creek
2.8 km
Experience tranquility at Manda Creek, a serene escape in Shela, Kenya, where nature and culture unite in stunning beauty.
Mtaqkwini
3.0 km
Mtaqkwini in Shela, Kenya: A breathtaking coastal destination offering stunning beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Masjid Riyadha & Islamic Centre
3.3 km
Explore the Masjid Riyadha & Islamic Centre, a serene spiritual hub in Lamu, reflecting the rich Islamic heritage and stunning architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lamu Market
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant colors and flavors of Lamu Market, a bustling hub of fresh produce and local culture in the heart of Lamu, Kenya.
Lamu Fort
3.4 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Lamu Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure of Kenya's coastal heritage.
Lamu Town Square
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture and history of Lamu at Lamu Town Square, a bustling hub of activity and local charm.
Mongo Sharif
3.5 km
Experience the rich culture, breathtaking views, and historical charm of Mongo Sharif, a must-visit tourist attraction in Lamu, Kenya.
Lamu Museum
3.6 km
Explore Lamu Museum: A Cultural Treasure of Swahili Heritage and History in the Heart of Kenya's Enchanting Island.
Kinai farm
4.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kinai Farm in Lamu, a must-visit garden showcasing Kenya's rich biodiversity and tranquil landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Peponi Hotel bar & restaurant
0.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Peponi Hotel Bar & Restaurant in Shela, Lamu – where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.
Rangaleni Shop Shela
0.3 km
Experience authentic coastal Kenyan cuisine at Rangaleni Shop in Shela - where every meal is infused with local flavor and ocean views.
Faliera Hotel, Restaurant & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine and vibrant local art at Faliera Hotel in Shela - a true gem for food lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
Pizza O
0.4 km
Discover the best pizza in Shela at Pizza O – where every slice is crafted with passion and served with warmth.
Bahari Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover Bahari Restaurant: A Culinary Oasis in Shela Offering Authentic Kenyan Flavors with a Stunning Coastal View.
Shela Women's Association
0.4 km
Savor authentic Kenyan cuisine at Shela Women's Association - where every dish tells a story of community and culture.
Stop Over Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover authentic Kenyan cuisine at Stop Over Restaurant in Lamu – where local flavors meet welcoming hospitality.
Kijani Rooftop Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and exquisite cuisine at Kijani Rooftop Restaurant in Shela, Kenya - a must-visit for every traveler.
Lamu place
0.8 km
Experience authentic Swahili cuisine at Lamu Place in Kenya - where every meal tells a story.
Kaskazi catamaran
1.7 km
Experience culinary bliss on the water at Kaskazi Catamaran, where local Kenyan cuisine meets Italian flair amidst stunning ocean views.
Coco Jambo Restaurant
2.8 km
Experience authentic Kenyan flavors at Coco Jambo Restaurant in Lamu – a culinary treasure on the coast.
Bosnia fast foods
3.0 km
Discover authentic flavors at Bosnia Fast Foods in Lamu—where local cuisine meets fast food favorites for an unforgettable dining experience.
Zinj Centre
3.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of local cuisine and international delights at Zinj Centre in Langoni - a culinary gem for every traveler.
Zinj
3.1 km
Experience authentic Kenyan cuisine at Zinj in Lamu; where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Shuwari Foods Lamu
3.1 km
Experience authentic Kenyan flavors at Shuwari Foods in Lamu - where tradition meets taste amidst breathtaking coastal scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Natural Lamu (Shela)
0.3 km
Explore the essence of Lamu at Natural Lamu, your go-to organic shop for fresh produce and artisanal delights.
Tawfiq Shop Lamu
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant offerings of Tawfiq Shop Lamu, where local culture meets unique shopping experiences in the heart of Shela.
Sally's collection
0.4 km
Explore Sally's Collection in Shela for unique, handcrafted gifts that embody the local culture and artistry of Kenya.
Lulu Stories
0.4 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Lulu Stories on Shela Lamu Island, a charming gift shop reflecting the rich culture of Lamu.
African Corner Lamu
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant craftsmanship of Lamu at African Corner, a unique craft store showcasing local artistry and handmade treasures.
Aman
0.4 km
Discover Aman in Shela, Kenya – an exquisite boutique offering unique local crafts and a serene shopping experience by the beautiful shores.
Musenangu shop shella
0.4 km
Explore Musenangu Shop in Shela for unique local crafts and souvenirs that embody the rich Swahili culture and artistry.
Kiswahili Lamu
0.5 km
Experience the unique blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty at Kiswahili Lamu in Shela, a boutique destination like no other on Lamu's coast.
Lamu fine & antique Furniture gallery
0.5 km
Discover timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship at Lamu's premier destination for fine and antique furniture.
NasrudiN
2.6 km
Discover the essence of Lamu at NasrudiN, a vibrant store offering authentic local crafts and unique treasures for every traveler.
Kirukuu shop
2.7 km
Explore the vibrant local crafts and authentic souvenirs at Kirukuu Shop, a must-visit destination in the historic town of Lamu.
Alshuraa Youth Group
2.8 km
Discover the heart of Lamu at Alshuraa Youth Group, a vibrant community store offering local crafts and cultural experiences.
Lamu Modern Homes
2.8 km
Discover the essence of Lamu through fashion at Lamu Modern Homes, where local artistry meets contemporary style.
Lamu clean cereals
2.9 km
Explore healthy local flavors at Lamu Clean Cereals, a smart shop offering a variety of nutritious grains and local artisanal products.
Sikuhuni Sabina shop
3.0 km
Explore Sikuhuni Sabina Shop in Langoni for a unique shopping experience filled with local products and warm hospitality.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
KOA Lamu
0.4 km
Experience the flavors of Lamu at KOA Lamu, where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry in a stunning coastal setting.
The Majlis Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover the rich flavors of Kenya at The Majlis Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance in a perfect dining experience.
Mararaha Lounge
0.9 km
Mararaha Lounge in Shela: A vibrant bar offering exquisite cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
LA DULCE TORO CAFE
3.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Kenya at La Dulce Toro Cafe, a cozy coffee shop in Lamu, perfect for relaxation and delight.
Aquarius Rooftopcafe_Lamu
3.8 km
Discover the ultimate rooftop relaxation at Aquarius Rooftopcafe in Lamu, where stunning views meet delightful pastries and a cozy atmosphere.
Aquarius Kitchen Lamu(former Umalila)
3.8 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Lamu at Aquarius Kitchen, where local cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Moonrise restaurant
3.8 km
Discover the flavors of Lamu at Moonrise Restaurant, where local cuisine meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Lamu house Restaurant
3.8 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Lamu at the Lamu House Restaurant, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views.
Manda Airport VIP lounge
4.5 km
Indulge in luxury at Manda Airport VIP Lounge, a peaceful haven for travelers seeking relaxation before their flights.
Kitangani beach restaurant
7.2 km
Experience the best of Kenyan cuisine with stunning ocean views at Kitangani Beach Restaurant, a barbecue paradise for food lovers.
Club village
9.0 km
Discover the flavors of Kenya at Club Village, a must-visit restaurant in Matondoni, offering authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere.
The Luxe Lounge Bar and Restaurant
10.2 km
Discover a fusion of local and international flavors at The Luxe Lounge Bar and Restaurant in Mokowe, where every dish tells a story.
Kizingo
11.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Kizingo, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking views in the heart of Kiongwe, Kenya.
