Are There Private Island Resorts in Kenya?

When travelers think of Kenya, they often imagine vast savannah plains, lion-filled landscapes, and unforgettable safari moments. But beyond its iconic wildlife, Kenya is also home to a spectacular Indian Ocean coastline dotted with pristine beaches, coral reefs, mangroves, and—most enticing of all—exclusive private island resorts.
So, are there private island resorts in Kenya? Absolutely. Kenya has several private islands that offer secluded luxury, barefoot elegance, and uniquely intimate experiences far removed from the crowds of popular beach destinations. These islands blend tropical beauty with Kenyan hospitality, providing the ultimate escape for honeymooners, elite travelers, wellness seekers, and anyone craving total privacy.
From the remote Lamu Archipelago to hidden gems near the Tanzanian border, Kenya’s private islands are among the region’s best-kept travel secrets. Each island offers something different—whether it’s rustic-chic charm, high-end opulence, pristine marine environments, or Swahili cultural influence.
Let’s dive into Kenya’s world of private island resorts and discover what makes them so magical.

Kenya’s Private Island Resorts: A Unique Coastal Experience

Kenya’s private island resorts are primarily located in the Lamu Archipelago, a chain of islands renowned for their beauty, Swahili culture, traditional dhow sailing, and peaceful ambiance. These islands are not just luxurious—they’re culturally rich, environmentally pristine, and deeply connected to the Indian Ocean’s rhythms.
Unlike the high-density luxury islands in the Seychelles or Maldives, Kenya’s private islands offer exclusivity with an authentic coastal identity. They blend barefoot luxury with traditional architecture, seafood-based cuisine, and intimate experiences that feel personal rather than commercial.

Manda Island: Home to Exclusive Hideaways

Located in the Lamu Archipelago, Manda Island is known for its quiet shores, bushy dunes, and charming private retreats. While not every resort on Manda occupies the entire island, several offer a true private-island feel due to their seclusion.

Manda Bay

Manda Bay is one of Kenya’s most iconic luxury retreats. Privately owned and family-run, this boutique lodge offers beachfront cottages set along a secluded stretch of coastline.
Guests enjoy:
• barefoot luxury
• sailing and dhow excursions
• watersports such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and deep-sea fishing
• gourmet seafood dining
• sunset cruises through mangroves
Because Manda Bay sits on a remote peninsula, the experience feels like being on your own private island, surrounded by untouched wilderness and calm ocean tides.

Lamu Island: Private Villas with Island-Style Exclusivity

Though Lamu Island itself is not a private island, its coastline and offshore inlets feature exclusive private villas and boutique lodges that offer complete privacy. These retreats are popular among celebrities and high-profile travelers seeking a quiet escape.

The Majlis Resort (on Manda but facing Lamu)

The Majlis, while not on a standalone island, offers a secluded oasis accessible only by boat. Its beachfront suites, opulent Swahili-Arabic architecture, infinity pools, and private tours create a truly luxurious island-style stay.

Private Seaside Villas

Across Lamu, travelers can book entire private beachfront villas—complete with chefs, house staff, and boatmen—for all the privacy and exclusivity of a private island but with cultural charm just a dhow ride away.

Kiwayu Island: Kenya’s Most Iconic Remote Island Resort

North of Lamu lies the breathtaking Kiwayu Island in the Kiunga Marine Reserve. Kiwayu is considered Kenya’s truest private island escape.

Kiwayu Safari Village

This iconic barefoot-luxury lodge is often considered the purest private island experience in Kenya. It embodies total seclusion—no roads, no crowds, and no noise except the ocean.
Key features include:
• open-air bandas (traditional cottages) set directly on the beach
• pristine coral reefs ideal for snorkeling
• world-class deep-sea fishing
• private dune walks
• untouched beaches stretching for miles
• exclusive dining personalized for each guest
Kiwayu Safari Village has attracted royalty, Hollywood celebrities, and travelers seeking privacy in its purest form. This is where luxury means nature, freedom, and peace.

Chale Island: Kenya’s Only Official Private Island Resort

Located just south of Diani Beach, Chale Island is the only fully dedicated private island resort on Kenya’s southern coast.

The Sands at Chale Island

The Sands at Chale is Kenya’s only true private island resort accessible by boat or tractor depending on tide. It offers an exotic blend of luxury and natural beauty.
Experiences include:
• stunning overwater bungalows
• coral reefs surrounding the island
• mangrove forests
• crescent-shaped white beaches
• spa treatments infused with Swahili influences
• kayaking, snorkeling, and diving
Chale Island is perfect for couples, honeymooners, and travelers seeking a magical yet accessible island experience near Diani.

Funzi Island: A Hidden Island Paradise

South of Diani lies Funzi Island, a tranquil archipelago surrounded by mangroves, stretching sandbars, and peaceful fishing villages.

Funzi Keys

Funzi Keys is not a full private-island resort in strict terms, but it offers isolated beachfront bungalows and villas with exceptional privacy.
Highlights include:
• dhow cruises on Ramisi River
• sandbank picnics
• turtle-watching
• romantic candlelit beach dinners
Funzi Island offers a rustic, untouched charm perfect for travelers who want relaxation away from the commercial coastline.

Wasini Island: A Remote Marine Paradise

Near the Tanzanian border, Wasini Island is known for its proximity to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park, Kenya’s best dolphin-watching and snorkeling location.

Wasini Private Villas and Eco-Lodges

Though Wasini is inhabited, several small eco-lodges and private villas offer exclusivity and breathtaking ocean views.
Guests enjoy:
• dolphin excursions
• snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs
• dhow sailing
• delicious Swahili seafood
• complete digital detox experiences
Wasini is ideal for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers.

What Makes Kenya’s Private Islands Special?

Kenya’s private islands stand out for several reasons:

Authentic Swahili Culture

These islands retain architectural influence from Arab, Persian, and African heritage. You experience a mix of dhow sailing, coral-stone houses, and centuries-old traditions.

Pristine Marine Environments

Because many islands lie within marine parks, their coral reefs and wildlife remain healthy and thriving.

Barefoot Luxury

Kenya favors natural elegance over flashy extravagance. Think:
• hammocks under palm trees
• open-air cottages
• oceanfront villas
• fresh seafood grilled over coconut husks

Unmatched Privacy

Kenya’s private islands are not crowded like those in the Maldives. Many allow only a handful of guests at a time.

Ideal Romantic Getaways

They are perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or any traveler seeking peace and seclusion.

Best Time to Visit Private Islands in Kenya

The best months for island travel are:
• December to March – warmest and sunniest
• July to October – cooler and dry
Visibility for snorkeling and diving is best in January–March.

Activities on Kenya’s Private Islands

• snorkeling and diving
• dhow cruises
• windsurfing and kitesurfing
• deep-sea fishing
• island hikes
• mangrove canoeing
• cultural tours in nearby villages
• yoga and wellness retreats

Who Should Visit Kenya’s Private Islands?

• honeymooners
• luxury travelers
• celebrity or VIP visitors
• families seeking privacy
• marine enthusiasts
• eco-conscious travelers
• wellness seekers

Are There Private Island Resorts in Kenya?

Yes—Kenya offers some of the most enchanting private island resorts in East Africa. From Chale Island to the secluded elegance of Kiwayu, the cultural richness of Lamu’s island villas, and the untouched beauty of Funzi and Wasini, Kenya’s private islands are ideal for travelers seeking peace, intimacy, natural beauty, and ocean adventures.
Whether you want a romantic retreat, a luxurious hideaway, or an eco-conscious escape, Kenya’s islands offer experiences that rival world-famous tropical destinations.

To explore Kenya’s private islands with expert guidance, seamless planning, and personalized coastal itineraries, consider booking your journey with Experiya Tour Company. Their team ensures exclusive island stays, unforgettable ocean experiences, and stress-free travel arrangements tailored to your dream coastal escape.