Situated on the eastern coast of Kenya, Malindi is a town that has welcomed very important visitors, from Zheng He, a Chinese explorer who arrived in 1414, to Vasco da Gama, who arrived in 1498 and built a coral pillar that is still standing. Centuries later, Malindi continues to welcome tourists from around the world who flock to relax on its beaches, see the neighboring coral reef or visit the Malindi Marine National Park, all while staying in inviting local hotels and resorts.
Che Sale is a small and secluded beach hotel with only five cottages, which are called bandas in Swahili. The bandas are all named after local fish in the Swahili language: Songoro, Fulusi, Suli Suli, Kole Kole and Tewa. The property was constructed with renewable materials, including coconut trees, Casaruina trees, palm trees, mango wood and other local materials. The hotel has the added distinction of being the first East African kite-surfing location, and its kite surfing school attracts enthusiasts from around the world. Depending on the season, rooms cost $76 and $133 per person, per night. Children under the age of three stay for free while those under the age of 12 stay for half the price.
Che Shale
P.O. Box 1434
80200 Malindi
Kenya
254-722-230-931
cheshale.com
Sitting on a white sand beach, Kilili Baharini is covered with trees and surrounded by majestic scenery. All of the hotel’s 29 rooms overlook one of five swimming pools and are air conditioned. The rooms include a mini bar, safe and also a private veranda where breakfast is served in the mornings. There is a restaurant, a bar and a health and beauty spa which uses Kilili cosmetics that contain natural products. The restaurant overlooks the ocean and serves fresh food, including Italian cuisine, local dishes and tropical fruits. The hotel will arrange for a safari excursion. Room rates are available upon request.
Kilili Baharini Resort
Casuarina Road
P.O. Box 93
Malindi
Kenya
254-42-2120169
kililibaharini.com
Established in the 1960s, the Driftwood Beach Club is a small beachside resort. Accommodations are split into cottages and three villas, all of which are air conditioned, contain mosquito nets and are surrounded by gardens, pools and the ocean. The villas are named for Kenya’s archipelagos: Pate, Kiwayu and Shela. Each contains a stocked kitchenette and a private seating area in which guests can relax and read or sunbathe. The hotel can arrange diving, snorkeling and birdwatching adventures with experienced and certified guides. For anglers, deep sea fishing affords the opportunity to catch marlin, yellowfin tuna and shark. Room rates are available upon request.
Driftwood Beach Club
PO Box 63
Malindi
Kenya
254-42-2120155
driftwoodclub.com
