Chale Island Resort, Ukunda ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Hotel

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya

Close to the beach

Perfect

9.4

9.5

/10

4.2

4.6

Loved by guests

Fabulous views
Complimentary canapés
Friendly staff
Delicious food

"The sunset bar is still gorgeous but now serves complimentary canapés with drinks."

chunkyCheshire from United Kingdom

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"We stayed in the Penthouse, the 360 degree view, the sunrises, sunsets, range of birds, monkeys and wild life was rejuvenating for the soul."

Karen W from United Kingdom

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"Beautiful bungalows overlooking the beach, snorkeling sites, diving school, excellent food and service, romantic sunset bar on the mangrove."

Romain from France

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Accommodations

Chale Island Resort offers an Overwater Suite, providing views of Bird Island and Gazi Bay. The Suite On The Rock delivers a circular design, a mini garden, and an upstairs lounge. The resort features 60 rooms designed with Swahili-inspired decor, showcasing traditional fabrics and natural wood.

Location

Chale Island is located just four degrees south of the equator, offering a setting unique among islands. It is surrounded by coral seas, coastal forests, and pristine beaches. The island is accessible with a short domestic flight from Nairobi to Ukunda, followed by a scenic boat transfer.

Wildlife Experiences

Chale Island is home to two troops of Colobus Monkeys and serves as a nesting site for Green Turtles. The waters around the island are frequented by whale sharks and migrating whales, providing exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Birdwatchers can explore an abundance of local bird species that inhabit the area.

Dining Options

The resort's main restaurant, Baharini, offers a range of international cuisines crafted from locally sourced produce. Guests can enjoy dining experiences using ingredients from The Sands Farm and local fishermen practicing sustainable fishing. The establishment emphasizes farm-to-table dining with daily specials highlighting fresh flavors.

Activities and Amenities

Chale Island provides a range of activities, including a professional diving service called Chale's Diving the Crab. Guests can also experience water sports through the well-equipped water sports center. Spa treatments and boat excursions are available to enhance relaxation and exploration.

Highlights

Location: Kenya's Only Private Island Escape

Accommodations: 60 rooms across 6 categories

Dining: Baharini offering international cuisines

Wildlife: Home to Colobus Monkeys and nesting Green Turtles

Activities: Diving services with PADI dive courses

Sustainability: Part of Thinking Green initiative

“Anchored off Ukunda, the resort's private island location creates an exclusive beachfront experience, with inspired Swahili architecture adding to the unique atmosphere; sustainability is woven into every element, from locally sourced dining to serious environmental work. For couples especially, the dedication to both luxury and nature makes it a memorable getaway.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Highlights from guests

DiningFoodie Paradise

The food was fresh, with a la carte options for all meals. I especially enjoyed the variety of Swahili dishes available.

Akinyi from Kenya

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Sports & FitnessActive Escape

Free kayak rentals are available. The resort includes a fitness center and multiple pools, including a saltwater option.

Rajesh from India

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Room FeaturesPenthouse Perfection

The penthouse suite was amazing, with comfy seating, stunning views, and a private sun lounge balcony.

Isabelle from France

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Spa & LeisureSunset Magic

The sunset bar was spectacular, with different memorable views each evening. Massages were excellent and relaxing.

Mohammed from United Arab Emirates

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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

595 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Deluxe Room

2 persons

380 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Balcony

room details

Suite on The Rock

2 persons

1080 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Tower Suite

2 persons

970 sq. feet

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 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

Dining Onsite

Chale Island Resort offers a delightful culinary playground where the vibrant flavors of Kenyan cuisine meet the culinary artistry of Italian and Asian influences. Guests can indulge in fresh, locally-sourced seafood and enjoy idyllic beachside settings for unforgettable dining experiences.

Chale Island Resort Ukunda Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Kenyan with an Italian twist and Asian hints

Ambiance

Set against a backdrop of tranquil island vibes, this inviting space is perfect for relaxed breakfasts and elegant dinners.

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include expertly prepared fish, with sushi available at a nearby bar using sustainable fishing methods, ensuring freshness in every bite. The attentive team, led by Chef Evans, crafts meals that are both flavorful and nourishing.

Reservation

Reservations are not needed.

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

Location

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya

Map view

Chale Island, Ukunda, Kenya

City landmarks

Landmark

Chale Island

3400 ft

Landmark

Gazi Beach

2.0 mi

Nearby

Mangrove Broadwalk

200 ft

Chale Beach

400 ft

Explore Ukunda

Explore Chale Island's Surroundings

Chale Island

15 minutes' walk

Chale Island is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, perfect for a day of relaxation and nature.

Gazi Beach

23-minute drive

Gazi Beach features pristine sands and tranquil waters, ideal for sunbathing and watching local fishing activities.

Mangrove Boardwalk

1 minute walking

The Mangrove Boardwalk offers a serene path through lush mangroves, providing insights into local ecosystems.

Chale Beach

2 minutes walking

Chale Beach is celebrated for its beauty and offers water sports, making it a great spot for fun and relaxation.

Snorkeling Trips

15 minutes' walk

Snorkeling trips near the island showcase colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, available through experienced local guides.

Yoga Sessions

15 minutes' walk

Yoga sessions on Chale Island focus on relaxation and wellness, typically held in picturesque beachfront locations.

The Fisherman's Bar

15 minutes' walk

This bar serves fresh seafood with a relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying sunset views with local dishes.

Restaurant Chale

10-minute drive

Restaurant Chale offers a mix of Kenyan and international cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a romantic dinner.

Chale Island Night Beach Parties

15 minutes' walk

These lively beach parties feature local DJs, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere, offering fun for all ages.

Cozy Jazz Lounge

10-minute drive

The Cozy Jazz Lounge has a laid-back vibe with live music nights, perfect for enjoying cocktails and smooth tunes.

Getting around

City Centre

Ukunda27 min · 10.8 mi

Airports

Ukunda (UKA)27 min · 11.0 mi

Moi Airport (MBA)109 min · 45.1 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

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 without booking an overnight stay? If so, what is the cost?

15 November 2024

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

What time of year is ideal for experiencing the best beach vacation at Chale Island?

22 December 2024

The resort is open year-round, but the best time to visit for a perfect beach holiday is typically during the dry months, avoiding the rainy season, which is mainly in April, May, and June.

Can airport transfers be arranged for guests arriving at Mombasa Airport? What are the available options and prices?

30 January 2025

Transfers can be arranged at the following costs: USD 170 for a round trip per Salon car (for 2 passengers) and USD 210 per Minibus (for 4 passengers).

Are beverages included during dinner at Chale Island?

10 February 2025

Drinks are not included in the dinner package and can be ordered at an additional cost.

What is the pricing for an overwater bungalow per person per night?

04 March 2025

Rates for the overwater bungalow vary depending on the season. It's advisable to inquire for specific pricing based on your selected dates.

How do guests transfer from the mainland to Chale Island?

25 March 2025

Transfers from the mainland to the island are conducted via boat or tractor, depending on the tide conditions.

Do the accommodations on Chale Island feature separate living areas, or are they all in one room?

18 April 2025

Various accommodation options are available, including some with a separate room and lounge area, ensuring a comfortable stay tailored to different preferences.

Is the private beach easily accessible from the resort, or are transportation options required?

12 May 2025

The private beach is located right next to the resort, allowing easy access without the need for transportation.

Are coffee machines and complimentary drinking water provided in the accommodations?

26 May 2025

Yes, each room features a coffee machine, and two complimentary bottles of water are provided daily.

What wildlife can be observed around Chale Island, and are there any unique conservation efforts in place?

15 June 2025

Chale Island is home to unique wildlife including Colobus Monkeys and Green Turtles. The resort has implemented sustainability initiatives to protect this natural environment and its inhabitants.