gallery of 8 photos

Lamu Island, Kenya

Manda Bay

This is a great spot if you want to experience the cultural day trips into the Swahili capitol on Lamu. Perfect for families who love water sports but don't need a swimming pool. Their traditional sailing Dhow is perhaps the prettiest in the business and the food is to die for!

Accommodation is darling - but may be rustic by some standards. Grass mats top the sandy ground and rooms are open aired with fans & mosquito netting.

 — Mango's view

Manda Bay Resort is a small, private lodge on Manda Island in northern Kenya's Lamu Kiwayu archipelago. Fifteen spacious cottages line the beach overlooking the calm waters of Manda Bay.

Manda Bay Resort is on a secluded peninsula, close to ancient Lamu Town and neighboring Shela, but far enough away from the bustle to enjoy total privacy. Surrounded by magnificent coral gardens, empty beaches and indigenous woodlands, Manda Bay Resort is a glorious destination for both active and leisurely holidays.

All the buildings are constructed with local materials in traditional coastal style, with palm thatch roofs and woven matting covering the floors. The cottages are spacious and comfortable with their own bathrooms; they are specially sited to catch the cooling sea breezes and all have verandahs.

There are 15 cottages with a choice of double or twin beds, surrounded by large flowing mosquito nets and cooled by overhead fans. The informal dining room and sitting rooms are comfortable, open and airy. They enjoy uninterrupted views of Manda Bay whose ever-changing waters attract birds, small local sailing craft and spectacular marine life. All rooms are furnished in vibrant Kenyan fabrics, specially designed to complement the environment.

All meals are relaxed and casual, served in the dining room, on the beach, or even on Utumaduni, a traditional sailing dhow. The availability of wonderful, fresh seafood and tropical fruit dictates most menus but Manda Bay offers wholesome, nutritious homecooked menus from all over the world to suit any palate. The Italian trained Swahili chef can easily cater to the demands of children and those on special diets.

Includes: All meals, soft drinks, beer & house wine & laundry