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From605US$ /night
Check-in
16Mar2026Select date
Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya
-
Close to Chale Beach
Perfect
9.4
9.4
/10
4.2
4.5
/5

Location

Chale Island is located off the south coast of Kenya, just three hours from Nairobi. It provides a unique private island experience, combining coral seas, coastal forests, and white-sand beaches. The island lies only four degrees south of the equator, enhancing its allure with a diverse natural environment.

Wildlife Encounters

Chale Island is home to Colobus Monkeys and serves as a nesting site for Green Turtles. The island's waters teem with marine life, including regular whale shark sightings and migrating whales. An abundance of bird species enhance the island's ecological richness.

Accommodation

The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including the Overwater Suite with views of Bird Island and the Tower Suites with elevated perspectives over the ocean. The Suite On The Rock, set on a private islet, features a unique design with a rainwater garden. Each room incorporates Swahili-inspired decor, utilizing traditional fabrics and natural materials.

Dining Options

Chale Island hosts the main restaurant, Baharini, showcasing a variety of international cuisines made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The resort prioritizes sustainable dining through its on-site farm, providing a farm-to-fork concept. Seafood is sourced from local fishermen practicing sustainable fishing.

Activities and Entertainment

Guests can engage in activities such as diving through Chale's Diving the Crab, which offers PADI courses and fun dives. The resort also features a well-equipped water sports center and a magical spa for relaxation. For adventure seekers, the island provides exciting excursions to nearby Diani Beach and safaris to renowned parks.

Highlights

Location: Chale Island is located off the south coast of Kenya

Wildlife: Home to Colobus Monkeys and nesting Green Turtles

Accommodation: Overwater Suite with views of Bird Island

Dining: Baharini with fresh, sustainable and locally sourced ingredients

Activities: PADI dive courses and well-equipped water sports center

Must-do experiences

  • Savor fresh catch at Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant in Diani.
  • Visit the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park for snorkeling adventures.
  • Explore the Ukunda Market for unique local crafts and fresh produce.
  • Enjoy a sunset dhow cruise along the beautiful coast.
  • Try the Swahili dish 'Pilau' at one of the local eateries.
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Select your room type

Chale Island Resort offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Ocean View Banda
2 persons
595 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
Deluxe Room
2 persons
380 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
Suite on The Rock
2 persons
1080 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Tower Suite
2 persons
970 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Facilities

Chale Island Resort offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.5/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Private beach
  • Currency exchange
  • Coffee shop
  • Fireplace
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Golf course
  • Yoga class
  • Fishing

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Massage
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Curtains
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Dining Onsite

At Chale Island Resort, uplift your dining experience with a delightful blend of traditional Kenyan flavors and a hint of Italian flair, all complemented by fresh, locally sourced seafood. The inviting ambience enhances the pleasure of each meal, making dining here a special occasion to savor.
Chale Island Resort Ukunda Restaurant photo
Chale Island Resort Ukunda Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Kenyan-Italian fusion
Ambiance
Casual beachfront setting with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for enjoying meals surrounded by natural beauty.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include local seafood prepared with an Italian twist, and Asian influences-each meal crafted by the expert team led by Chef Evans. The restaurant guarantees a delightful culinary experience for breakfast and dinner.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily for breakfast and dinner from 07:00 - 21:30.

Chale Island Resort Location

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya
Map view
Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya
Nearby
Mangrove Broadwalk
200 ft
Chale Beach
400 ft
Explore Ukunda
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Chale Island
Chale Island
15 minutes' walk
Chale Island is a picturesque getaway with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
Mangrove Boardwalk
1 minute walking
This scenic boardwalk offers a serene stroll through mangrove forests, showcasing unique wildlife and natural beauty.
Chale Beach
Chale Beach
2 minutes walking
Chale Beach features soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming in a tranquil setting.
Gazi Beach
23 minutes' drive
Gazi Beach presents stunning coastal views and opportunities for local seafood dining and community cultural experiences.
Snorkeling trips
15 minutes' walk
Guided snorkeling trips at Chale Island showcase vibrant coral reefs, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Kayaking adventures
15 minutes' walk
Kayak rentals on Chale Island provide a relaxing way to explore the coastline and spot local marine life.
The Waterfront Restaurant
15 minutes' walk
This seafood-focused restaurant offers stunning ocean views and fresh local dishes, with both vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Chale Island Restaurant
15 minutes' walk
Known for its local cuisine, this restaurant serves traditional Kenyan dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for families or couples.
Chale Island Beach Bar
15 minutes' walk
Offering live music and local DJs, this beach bar provides a lively atmosphere for guests to unwind and socialize.
Local Cultural Shows
15 minutes' walk
Regularly hosted local cultural shows expose guests to traditional music and dance, enhancing the vibrant local experience.
Getting around
City Centre
Ukunda26 min  ·  10.8 mi
Airports
Ukunda (UKA)27 min  ·  10.9 mi
Moi Airport (MBA)92 min  ·  38.0 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:30
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian
Year renovated:
2006
Number of rooms:
53
Former name
the sands at chale island

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Chale Island Resort from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 80 verified reviews
9.4/10
Perfect
98%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.3/10
Cleanliness
9.7/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Location
9.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Staff
9.5/10
Value for money
8.4/10
Guest reviews
based on 186 reviews
9.4/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Chale Island Resort
Is it possible to enjoy a lunch and swimming package without having to stay overnight, and if so, what is the cost?
12 March 2024
A day package is offered at Kshs. 5,000 per person, which includes a buffet lunch and access to the swimming pool and beach from 10:00 to 17:00.
What time of year provides the best weather conditions for a beach getaway?
18 April 2024
The resort welcomes guests all year round, but the rainy season typically occurs in April, May, and June, which may not be ideal for a beach holiday.
Are transportation arrangements from Mombasa airport to the resort available, and what are the rates?
21 July 2024
Yes, transfers can be arranged at the following rates: 170 USD for a round trip per salon car (2 Pax) and 210 USD for a minibus (4 Pax).
Is it possible to get picked up from Mombasa Airport for a stay, and how much would it cost?
30 August 2024
A pickup from Mombasa Airport is available for 85 USD one way for 1-2 guests.
Are beverages included in the dinner service?
10 September 2024
Drinks are not included in the dinner prices and are available at an additional cost.
What is the typical rate for an overwater bungalow per person per night?
15 November 2024
Rates vary depending on the season, so it's best to inquire for specific pricing.
How can one travel from the mainland to the island?
25 December 2024
Transportation options to the island include a boat or tractor for easy access.
Is there a private beach accessible directly from the resort?
22 January 2025
Yes, the beautiful private beach is located right next to the resort facilities.
Are coffee machines and drinking water provided in the accommodations?
5 February 2025
A coffee machine is provided in the rooms, along with two complimentary bottles of water each day.
What is the transportation duration from the mainland to the island and what are the related costs?
12 March 2025
The crossing takes about 30 minutes, with a transportation cost of USD 85 from SGR Station for 1-2 guests.

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