Chale Island Resort Ukunda Exterior photoChale Island Resort Ukunda Exterior photoChale Island Resort Ukunda Exterior photo
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From605US$ /night
Check-in
20Apr2026Select date
Check-out
21Apr2026Select date
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 a private island located just south of the equator, surrounded by the Indian Ocean and lush mangroves. Only a short 30-minute ride from Ukunda, it offers an exclusive escape with pristine beaches and an abundance of local wildlife. Guests can experience the beautiful coral seas and coastal forests teeming with diverse marine and bird life.

Wildlife Experience

Chale Island is home to two troops of Colobus Monkeys, and visits from Green Turtles happen regularly as they nest on the island's beaches. Whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean, can often be spotted in the surrounding waters. The island's rich biodiversity is complemented by a sustainability initiative aimed at protecting its natural environment.

Accommodations

The Overwater Suite offers unparalleled views of Bird Island, Gazi Bay, and the Shimba Hills, suspended above the ocean waves. The Suite On The Rock provides a secluded experience with its unique design, allowing guests to connect with nature while enjoying privacy. Various room types decorated with Swahili-inspired designs ensure that every stay is memorable.

Dining

Baharini restaurant serves a wide range of international cuisines with an emphasis on fresh, sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The Sands Farm provides much of the produce used in the resort's meals, ensuring quality and freshness. Guests can enjoy meals at various locations including beachside and poolside dining.

Activities

Chale Island offers a range of activities, including diving excursions led by professional guides under the Chale's Diving the Crab program. Guests can also engage in water sports, explore nature, or relax at the on-site spa. For those seeking adventure, the resort provides trips to local attractions such as Diani Beach and nearby safari parks.

Highlights

Location: Private island escape with pristine beaches

Wildlife: Home to Colobus Monkeys and nesting Green Turtles

Accommodations: Overwater Suite with ocean views

Dining: Baharini with local and sustainable ingredients

Must-do experiences

  • Snorkel at Kisite Marine Park for breathtaking sea life encounters.
  • Try the fresh seafood at Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant-a must!
  • Visit the local Diani Beach Art Gallery for unique crafts and art.
  • Experience a traditional Swahili dinner with locals in Gazi.
  • Explore the vibrant Diani Beach market for fresh produce and souvenirs.
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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
9.6/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Free 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

Chale Island Resort provides delightful onsite dining that fuses traditional Kenyan dishes with a dash of Italian flair and hints of Eastern influences. Guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant tastes offered in unique settings, from cozy bars to fresh seafood experiences.
Chale Island Resort Ukunda Restaurant photo
Chale Island Resort Ukunda Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Kenyan-Italian fusion with Oriental influences
Ambiance
A warm and inviting space perfect for gatherings, capturing the essence of the island's vibrant atmosphere
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include expertly prepared local cuisine, showcasing the best of land and sea, complemented by fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients
Reservation
No
Breakfast and Dinner; 07:00 - 21:30 daily

Sushi Bar

Fresh seafood
Ambiance
Casual and lively, where the ocean's bounty meets the art of sushi making
Key Offerings
Featuring locally caught fish, guests can enjoy expertly crafted sushi in a relaxed setting, emphasizing sustainable practices
Reservation
No
Open for lunch and dinner; specific hours vary

Main Bar and Jahazi Bar

Casual bar atmosphere
Ambiance
Ideal for socializing and sharing stories with fellow travelers, surrounded by the island's natural beauty
Key Offerings
Craft cocktails and a selection of beverages set the stage for unforgettable nights under the stars, with a chance to witness the nesting Green Turtles nearby
Reservation
No
Open for drinks until late; hours vary

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 Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Chale Island
Chale Island
15 minutes' walk
Chale Island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, perfect for snorkeling.
Mangrove Broadwalk
1 minute' walk
The Mangrove Broadwalk offers a serene experience among lush mangroves, ideal for birdwatching and connecting with nature.
Gazi Beach
23 minutes' drive
Gazi Beach features soft white sands and local fisherman, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy fresh seafood.
Chale Beach
Chale Beach
2 minutes' walk
Chale Beach provides a tranquil setting with soft sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Snorkeling Tours
15 minutes' walk
Snorkeling tours around Chale Island showcase vibrant coral reefs. Equipment rentals are available on-site.
Beach Yoga
2 minutes' walk
Relaxing beach yoga sessions are offered at Chale Beach, providing guided classes for all skill levels.
Fishing Trips
23 minutes' drive
Fishing trips from nearby Gazi Beach take guests on the ocean for exciting deep-sea adventures. Prior booking required.
Kayaking
15 minutes' walk
Kayaking around Chale Island allows for exploration of secluded beaches and mangroves, suitable for all experience levels.
The Lotus
15 minutes' walk
The Lotus serves international cuisine in a cozy atmosphere with seafood specialties; reservations recommended.
Gazi Sunshine
23 minutes' drive
Gazi Sunshine offers outdoor dining with local dishes, known for fresh seafood and vibrant local flavors.
Chale Island Restaurant
15 minutes' walk
The Chale Island Restaurant provides stunning ocean views and specialty dishes that focus on local ingredients.
The Beach Bar
2 minutes' walk
A casual spot for drinks and light bites, The Beach Bar features a relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying a sunset.
Chale Beach Bar
2 minutes' walk
The Chale Beach Bar offers live music events in a lively atmosphere, featuring local artists and themed nights.
Gazi Coastal Club
23 minutes' drive
The Gazi Coastal Club hosts regular DJ nights and entertainment events, great for both locals and visitors looking for nightlife.
Getting around
City Centre
Ukunda26 min  ·  10.8 mi
Airports
Ukunda (UKA)27 min  ·  10.9 mi
Moi (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 128 verified reviews
9.5/10
Perfect
98%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.7/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Guest reviews
based on 185 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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FAQs
About Chale Island Resort
What is the distance between Chale Island Resort and Ukunda Airstrip?
Chale Island Resort is located 15 km from Ukunda Airstrip.
How far is Chale Island Resort from Diani Beach?
The resort is approximately 12 km away from Diani Beach.
What amenities are available for guests at Chale Island Resort?
Guests can enjoy amenities such as three outdoor pools, a spa, a fitness room, and free Wi-Fi.
Is there a restaurant at Chale Island Resort?
Yes, there are on-site restaurants that serve traditional Kenyan cuisine, as well as mixed Italian and Oriental dishes.
What room amenities can guests expect at Chale Island Resort?
Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a mini-fridge, Wi-Fi, and Swahili-style beds with sea views.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Chale Island Resort?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
Does Chale Island Resort offer an airport shuttle service?
A paid airport shuttle service can be arranged for guests.
What activities are available at Chale Island Resort?
Guests can engage in activities such as diving, snorkeling, canoeing, and beach walks.
Is parking available at Chale Island Resort?
Private parking is available on-site for free, without the need for a reservation.
What wellness services are offered at Chale Island Resort?
The resort features a spa with open-air treatment rooms providing a variety of treatments, including massages and wellness packages.
How close is Chale Island Resort to the beach?
The resort is approximately 400 meters from Chale Beach.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room