Dhow House, Shela, Lamu
About this villa
A glamorous, luxurious and expansive private retreat tucked away in a quiet position on the fringes of sophisticated Shela, the Dhow House is a stylish and secluded sanctuary with all the attractions of village and beach just a few minutes stroll away Highlights: A gorgeous hideaway designed and furnished in opulent style; Elegant and dramatic inside and outside living & entertaining areas; Perfect for a serene and luxurious break at the beach; Dazzling 13-metre swimming pool and lush tropical gardens; Rooftop massage and yoga room, multiple al-fresco terraces and verandas; Direct private access to Shela seafront and beach; Accommodates up to 14 guests in 7 ensuite bedrooms.
What this place offers
- Wi-Fi
- Pool
- Air conditioning
- Daily housekeeping
- Chef on request
- Secure parking
- Beach access
- Garden
- Hot water
- Kitchen
Where you'll be
Lamu, Kenya
Exact address shared after booking.
Guest reviews
"A spectacular private villa and perhaps the chicest beach house in Africa, this seven-bedroom home is generously proportioned, comfortably accommodating 14 people in airy and sunshine-flooded rooms. Tasteful accents throughout the house reflect both the owner’s eclectic style and Lamu’s exotic history. The gardens are stuffed with palm trees, hibiscus and flat-topped acacias, with a tamarind tree providing the fruit for fresh juices every morning."
"Shela’s Dhow House overlooks the sea and is fronted by a beautifully-designed pool and its whitewashed exterior is dominated by a charmingly quirky turret. Stone floors, ornately carved furniture, sunken seating areas, shuttered openings and carefully-chosen pieces of art are all arranged to make maximum use of Lamu’s light, and the accommodation works for families or groups of friends alike."
House rules
- • Check-in from 14:00 · Check-out by 11:00
- • 3-night minimum stay
- • Maximum 14 guests
- • No parties or events · No smoking indoors
Make it special
Concierge experiences you can add during checkout.
Private chef
A dedicated chef cooks breakfast, lunch and dinner in your villa — Swahili-coast seafood, grills and fresh produce, tailored to your table.
$120 per night
Dhow sunset cruise
A traditional dhow charter at golden hour with drinks and canapés — the classic coast send-off, arranged for your group.
$180 per group
In-villa massage
A therapist comes to you for a 60-minute massage on your terrace or by the pool.
$55 per person
Airport transfer
Private return transfer between the airstrip and your villa in an air-conditioned vehicle.
$90 per group
Book with confidence
Pay nothing today
We confirm availability with the host before any charge — book with no risk.
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Every home is personally inspected and photographed before it’s listed.
Guest guarantee
If a villa is materially not as listed on arrival, we rehome you within 12 hours or refund.
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