The hype
Guests universally adore the architecture, the peaceful Manda Island location, and the staff's warmth, but food reviews are polarizing.
The Majlis Resort
$200-450/ night
Book this if You want the Lamu archipelago vibe without the chaos of Lamu Town, and you prefer a resort-style bubble with AC and a pool over a traditional Swahili townhouse.
Why People Love It
- The 'barefoot luxury' aesthetic—Italian design meets Swahili architecture
- Two swimming pools (rare for Lamu) with direct beach access
- Incredible sunset views over Ras Kitau Bay facing Shela Village
Quick Take: It’s a stunning, isolated bubble that feels more like a European summer home than a Kenyan cultural immersion—perfect for decomposing, but expensive if you want to leave.
Reviewed by @theikpeexperience: I celebrated my anniversary here and it was perfection. The private beach dinner was the most romantic experience we've ever had, and the sunset boat cruise was pure magic. If you want pure romance and privacy, this is the place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are a captive audience for food and drink unless you pay for a boat taxi, and the resort prices reflect that monopoly.
- You need air conditioning to sleep (many Lamu rentals don't have it)
- You want a proper resort experience with room service and pool bars
- You are traveling with kids—the 'Jungle Gym' and safe beach are huge wins
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service, generally thorough with evening turndown.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are spacious and clean, though some grout wear is visible due to the salt air.
- Maintenance: Grounds are manicured ('not a leaf out of place'), but some rooms show signs of salt-air weathering.
- Linens & towels: High quality, fresh, and crisp.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze, frangipani in the gardens.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Boat engines from the channel
- Wind noise in palm thatch during breezy season
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is on Manda Island, not Lamu Island—you must take a boat to get anywhere else.
- The pools use salt water, not fresh water.
- Alcohol is served here (unlike many halal establishments in Lamu Town).
What to pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (expensive to buy locally)
- Strong bug spray (mosquitoes can be fierce at dusk)
- Water shoes (the beach can have coral/shells)
Room Genie
Best picks
- First-floor Deluxe Rooms for better breezes and privacy
- Junior Suites if you need a proper lounge area
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor Garden Rooms near the public pathways (less privacy on the veranda)
- Any 'Sea View' room where recent reviews mention obstructed views
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking a Deluxe Room and kindly request a unit on the upper floor with an unobstructed view of the bay. Please avoid ground-floor units with high foot traffic near the veranda.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a beach?
Yes, a private beachfront, but it is tidal. At low tide, the water recedes significantly, revealing sandbanks and mangroves.
How do I get there?
Fly into Manda Airport (LAU). The resort arranges a speedboat transfer (approx. 10-15 minutes). It is often included in packages but confirm beforehand.
Is the food good?
It's hit or miss. Breakfast is generally praised, but lunch/dinner reviews vary from 'gastronomic journey' to 'overpriced and average.' Pizza is a safe bet.
Can I walk to Shela Village?
No. You are separated by a channel. You must take a boat taxi (2-5 minutes, ~$5-10 pp).
Is there AC?
Yes, all rooms have air conditioning, which is a major luxury in this region.
Are there hidden fees?
Watch out for boat transfer costs if you explore. Also, check if the 'service charge' is included in your rate or added at checkout.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book your boat transfers to Shela/Lamu Town in groups to split the cost.
- ✨
The 'Jungle Gym' is actually an outdoor fitness area made of local wood—fun, but not a Technogym.
- ✨
Request a room away from the main pool if you want to avoid the 'day visitor' noise.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Sea View' is often a 'Palm Tree View'—foliage has grown significantly.
💡You are a captive audience for food unless you pay for a boat ride.
💡Standard rooms provide tea but often no coffee/creamer setup inside the room.
💡The pools are salt water, which can be a surprise if you're expecting fresh.
💡Day visitors from other hotels can pay to use the facilities, sometimes crowding the pool area.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Majlis Resort is located and what's nearby.