Chale Island Resort, Ukunda

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Key details

About the Resort

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya

Perfect

9.4

9.5

/10

4.2

4.6

Loved by guests

Private island
Friendly staff
Beautiful beach
Delicious meals

"Perched on stilts on the water, the bar opens from 5pm and offers eye popping sunset views."

Madame_Trey from Kenya

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"Located on its own private island, it feels secluded and incredibly peaceful."

Rhyanna Walton from United Kingdom

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"With low tide during the early part of the day you can also take a walk/small hike around the island where the ocean would normally cover ground."

Yousuf from Belgium

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Amenities

Chale Island Resort offers a variety of engaging outdoor activities, including a well-equipped water sports center for diverse water sports. Guests can explore the surrounding marine life through diving excursions with Chale's Diving the Crab. A magical spa provides a selection of treatments, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation in a natural environment.

Rooms

Chale Island Resort features 60 rooms across six different categories, accommodating various tastes and preferences. The Overwater Suite provides stunning views of Bird Island and Gazi Bay, suspended above the Indian Ocean for a truly immersive experience. The Suite On The Rock offers a complete disconnect, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility.

Location

Chale Island lies just four degrees south of the equator, surrounded by pristine white beaches and tropical forests. The island is a nesting site for Green Turtles and a habitat for two troops of Colobus Monkeys. With easy access from Nairobi and major airports, it is an easy getaway yet feels secluded from daily life.

Dining

Dining at Baharini, the main restaurant, features a wide range of international cuisines made from fresh, locally sourced produce. The Sands Farm supplies much of the ingredients used, ensuring a farm-to-table experience. Guests can enjoy meals by the beach, in the restaurant, or poolside, tailored to their preferences.

Wildlife

The island supports a rich ecosystem, including frequent sightings of whale sharks and migrating whales in surrounding waters. Bird watchers can enjoy the diverse bird species that call Chale Island home. The extensive sustainability initiative follows the hotel's commitment to protecting local wildlife and their habitats.

Highlights

Location: Kenya's only private island escape

Rooms: Overwater Suite with ocean views

Dining: Farm-to-table experience at Baharini

Wildlife: Nesting site for Green Turtles

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Highlights from guests

DiningTastes Diversified

Three distinct restaurants offered varied culinary experiences. BBQ cuisines around the pools were exceptional, with Mediterranean, African, and American themes.

Antoine from France

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Sports & FitnessWater Adventures

Free kayaks and boogie boards are available. The diving center offers snorkeling, including guided trips to see exotic fish.

Ingrid from Sweden

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Room FeaturesBanda Bliss

Our upgraded beach banda was huge and comfortable. It had been recently renovated and offered incredible views.

Rajesh from India

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Spa & LeisureSunset Paradise

The sunset bar provides breathtaking views. Massages are incredible when hearing nature sounds, quiet, and peaceful.

Isabella from Spain

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Ocean View Banda

2 persons

55 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Deluxe Room

2 persons

35 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Suite on The Rock

2 persons

100 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Tower Suite

2 persons

90 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

Non-smoking rooms
Free Wi-Fi
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

Dining Onsite

Chale Island Resort offers an enticing culinary experience that beautifully intertwines traditional Kenyan flavors with delectable Italian influences and a touch of the Orient. Guests can enjoy freshly caught seafood and innovative dishes in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, making every meal a delightful occasion.

Chale Island Resort Ukunda Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Fusion of Kenyan and Italian with Oriental influences

Ambiance

Relaxed dining space designed for comfort, welcoming guests to savor meals while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of Chale Island.

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include uniquely crafted meals featuring fresh local produce and the day's catch, ensuring a vibrant dining experience. Delight in the freshness of local seafood, including beautifully prepared fish from sustainable sources.

Reservation

Reservations not needed.

Open daily for breakfast and dinner from 07:00 to 21:30.

Location

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya

Map view

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya

City landmarks

Landmark

Chale Island

1.0 km

Landmark

Gazi Beach

3.2 km

Nearby

Mangrove Broadwalk

50 m

Chale Beach

120 m

Explore Ukunda

Activities, Dining & Entertainment Near Chale Island Resort

Chale Island

15 minutes' walk

A unique sanctuary offering pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Ideal for snorkeling and nature walks.

Gazi Beach

23 minutes' drive

Beautiful shoreline known for its calm waters and local fishermen. Great spot for swimming and relaxation.

Mangrove Boardwalk

1 minute walking

A serene boardwalk through vibrant mangroves. Offers great birdwatching opportunities and scenic views.

Chale Beach

2 minutes walking

Soft sands and clear waters make this beach a perfect escape for sunbathing and swimming.

Snorkeling Tours

15 minutes' walk

Guided tours available to explore the rich marine ecosystem around Chale Island. Equipment rental is provided.

Kayaking

23 minutes' drive

Kayaking adventures on Gazi Beach for thrill-seekers. Rentals and lessons are offered, perfect for all skill levels.

Yoga Retreats

15 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga sessions available on Chale Island, ideal for rejuvenation amidst nature.

The Lighthouse Restaurant

15 minutes' walk

Beachfront dining with fresh seafood. Signature dish includes grilled catch of the day. Reservations recommended.

Gazi Seafood Restaurant

23 minutes' drive

Casual setting featuring local specialties. Known for its crab dishes and ocean views. Vegetarian options available.

Chale Island Nightlife

15 minutes' walk

Live music and beach parties under the stars. Family-friendly events often hosted, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Mombasa Cultural Center

23 minutes' drive

Local performances showcasing Kenyan art and dance. Features interactive sessions for all ages, enhancing cultural experiences.

Getting around

City Centre

Ukunda27 min · 17.4 km

Airports

Ukunda (UKA)27 min · 17.7 km

Moi Airport (MBA)109 min · 72.6 km

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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

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:

Former name

the sands at chale island

Questions of the users

About Chale Island Resort

Is it possible to enjoy a lunch and swimming package at Chale Island Resort without booking an overnight stay? If so, what is the cost?

10 January 2024

Yes, a day package is available at Kshs. 5,000 per person, which includes a buffet lunch and access to the swimming pool and beach. The package is valid from 10:00 to 17:00.

When would be the ideal time to plan a visit for an unforgettable beach experience?

15 February 2024

The resort welcomes guests year-round, but the rainy months typically occur from April through June.

Can arrangements be made for airport transfers from Mombasa? What would be the cost for a round trip?

20 March 2024

Transfer services can be arranged at the following rates: Mombasa airport round-trip is 170 USD for a salon car (2 guests) and 210 USD for a minibus (4 guests).

Are drinks included with dinner at the resort?

28 April 2024

Drinks are available at dinner but are not included in the meal cost.

What are the nightly rates for the overwater bungalows?

5 May 2024

Rates for overwater bungalows vary depending on the season. Specific pricing can be provided upon inquiry.

What options do guests have for transportation to the island from the mainland?

12 June 2024

Transportation to the island can be arranged via boat or tractor, depending on the tides.

Is there a way to get in contact for the menu details at Chale Island Resort?

18 July 2024

Yes, contacting the resort directly will provide access to the current menu offerings.

Does the resort have its own private beach or is transportation needed?

24 August 2024

Yes, the private beach is conveniently located right at the resort.

Are there coffee-making facilities and complimentary drinking water available in the rooms?

30 September 2024

Rooms are equipped with a coffee machine, and guests receive two complimentary bottles of water daily.

How can one travel from Diani to Chale Island, and what are the associated costs?

15 October 2024

Travel from Diani to Chale Mainland takes about 30 minutes, with transportation available. For 1-2 guests, the cost is approximately 85 USD for a transfer.

What is the weather typically like in June? Is it a good time to visit?

22 November 2024

June usually presents a mix of rain and sun, but it's advisable to check forecasts closer to the travel date for more accurate information.

Can transportation be arranged from Ukunda airport? What would the cost be?

3 December 2024

Yes, transportation from Ukunda Airport can be arranged for 35 USD one way for 1-2 guests.