Shela Village, Lamu: Complete Guide to Kenya’s Prettiest Coastal Haven
Located just three kilometers south of Lamu Town along the channel, Shela village is renowned for its laid-back bohemian elegance, pristine 12-kilometer beach, and beautifully restored coral stone mansions.
The Architecture of Shela
Shela is characterized by gleaming whitewashed coral walls, bougainvillea blossoms tumbling over stone arches, and peaceful, unpaved sand streets free of cars and motorbikes.
The 12-Kilometre Deserted Beach
Walking past the historic Peponi Hotel brings you onto an endless crescent of golden sand backing onto towering desert-like dunes. You can walk for hours without seeing another footprint.
How to Get Between Lamu Town and Shela
A breezy 10-minute motorized boat ride (boat taxi) connects Lamu Town and Shela for just a few hundred shillings, or you can take a scenic 45-minute low-tide stroll along the shoreline.