Kenyan Coast
Chale Island
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Just off the white-sand shores of Diani Beach, Chale, Kenya’s only private island, is a dreamy escape where turquoise waters and laid-back luxury set the scene.
It’s the kind of place where shoes are optional, time slows down, and every moment feels like a postcard so if you are seeking a quieter, more remote and private beach escape, then the Island is just for you!
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Facilities & Activities
Life on Chale Island moves at a relaxed, easy pace—but there’s still plenty to do if you feel like keeping active. Daily activities can include guided beach walks, perhaps spotting the local Colobus monkeys, mangrove kayaking, snorkelling trips (the island is a nesting site for Green turtles) , deep-sea fishing, sulphur mud baths, or even helping with a beach clean up. If you’d like to explore local culture, you can visit the nearby fishing village or sacred forest. Trips to the sandbank can also be arranged, often with a picnic lunch.
The island’s private beach is quiet and unspoilt, with soft white sand and gently lapping, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming and relaxed seaside time. If you are seeking pool-time however, beside reception is the main freshwater option, built with local stone and surrounded by plentiful sun beds. You can also find a spot to read and enjoy a cooling drink by the second swimming pool with bar. Close to the Spa and fitness area there’s a final salt-water pool, with steps leading directly to the sea at high tide, offering a magical swim through the mangroves to the main jetty, so you can combine the two!
There’s a small gift shop on the island offering locally made crafts, jewellery, and a few easy souvenirs to take a piece of the coast home with you.
For those who want to go a bit further, there are excursions to the mainland and nearby marine parks for an added sense of adventure.
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Dining
Dining is a highlight here, with a variety of fresh, flavourful dishes served in stunning settings. Expect a fusion of Swahili, Italian, and international cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood and locally sourced ingredients. From beachside breakfasts to candlelit dinners under the stars, every meal is an experience—often accompanied by the gentle sound of the ocean in the background.
For drinks, the Mkoko Sunset Bar is the place to be in the evening, set up over the ocean with wide views as the sun goes down. During the day, the Jahazi Beach Bar is an easy stop for something cold by the beach or the Barafu Bar if you prefer a quieter spot.
When it comes to eating, there are five main options. Baharini Restaurant is the main dining spot, serving a mix of international dishes and local flavours. Samaki Sushi Bar offers lighter bites and fresh sushi, while Tamu Tamu Cafe is the perfect spot for daytime snacks, coffee, and something sweet.
Kibanda BBQ Grill focuses on grilled dishes in a more casual setting whilst Eli’s Trattoria brings in simple Italian options for a change of pace.
Rooms
The rooms on Chale Island are beautifully designed with inspiration from Swahili traditions to blend comfort with unique, local charm.
Choose from Ocean-view Bandas with views of the turquoise sea, Overwater Suites suspended over the lapping waves or the tucked-away Standard Rooms, each offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Expect airy spaces, handcrafted details, and private terraces or balconies where you can soak in the island’s serene atmosphere.
The pinnacle of accommodation here is the Suite on the Rock, situated on its own private islet, including a mini garden in the center of the suite and circular stairway leading to an upstairs lounge plus private pool and sunbathing deck.
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Family
Families are genuinely well catered for on Chale Island, with spacious rooms and a laid-back setting that makes travelling with children feel straightforward. It’s a safe, scenic place for spending time together, though it’s worth noting there’s no dedicated kids’ club.
The main pool, located in the centre of the grounds, is ideal for families, and there’s a games area for teens with pool, table tennis, and football.
For accommodation, the Tower Suites work particularly well for younger families. Each has a double en-suite bedroom leading into a generous lounge area, where daybeds can be made up for children. They can sleep up to four adults, with space for an additional rollaway bed if needed. Smaller families might prefer the Standard Rooms, which sit slightly back from the shoreline but still offer sea views.
For older families, the Ocean View Bandas are a good option. These are arranged in pairs and, while they don’t interconnect internally, they can be linked via an external door to form a shared courtyard space. Each Banda can sleep up to three adults, although not all beds can be configured as twins.
On quieter or cooler days, the Marine Centre is a nice alternative, especially for younger children. It offers simple, hands-on activities like turning collected beach plastic into creative pieces—think handmade jellyfish and other small projects.
Sustainability
Sustainability plays an important role in preserving the island’s beauty. Chale Island is committed to protecting its fragile ecosystem, from its coral reefs to its mangrove forests. Eco-friendly practices, responsible tourism initiatives, and community engagement all help ensure this slice of paradise remains unspoiled for years to come. For further information see the island’s sustainability webpage.
Location
Chale Island is located just south of Diani Beach , 300m off Kenya’s coast. Access is part of the adventure—guests typically travel from Diani Ukunda Airport, followed by a short transfer, approx 30 minutes and then a brief boat ride (or a guided walk at low tide) across to the island. If you don’t feel like wading through the shallows, and prefer to arrive in style – you can jump on a trailer pulled by tractor to cross the channel!
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