The Majlis, Manda Beach, Lamu
About this villa
A unique and much-loved family hideaway turned boutique beach resort, the Majlis represents the ultimate in laid-back Lamu luxury. Idyllic and individual, designed and decorated in elegant and eclectic Swahili-Italian style, it’s the perfect destination for a sophisticated break at the beach. “Originally a second home for an Italian family, this Lamu hideaway quickly grew into something too good not to share. Today its founder’s sons, Federico and Stefano Moccia, preside over a boutique resort in the truest sense of the phrase. The seaside castaway seclusion of Manda Island, steeped in Swahili, Arab and Indian influences, met a dream team of architects and artists, including Julian Schnabel. The result is a hotel thick with personality, a place whose every square foot feels thoughtfully, intentionally designed. In the end it’s less like a hotel, perhaps, than an impeccably tasteful guest house – perhaps not surprising, given its origins – albeit a guest house which sprawls across three separate villas, and whose rooms and suites are outfitted with every luxury-hotel comfort. Add to that three pools, a long, gorgeous beach, cocktail bars and open-air restaurants specializing in local seafood, and you’ll quickly find yourself casting about for reasons to return.” The Michelin Guide Highlights: Escape and enjoy La Dolce Vita at this stylish and indulgent beachfront retreat; Refined, romantic and atmospheric accommodation among the palms and baobabs of Manda Beach; Conceived and created with architectural flair, art and imagination; Enjoy three inviting swimming pools, three delicious restaurants and four bars; Welcoming and efficient service. Wellness centre with spa, gym and yoga shala; Deep sea and creek fishing, kite surfing, water skiing, paddleboarding, snorkelling; Dhow sailing trips and cultural excursions around the Lamu archipelago. Rates are per person christmas and new year full board rates (21st dec.
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
"Originally a second home for an Italian family, this Lamu hideaway quickly grew into something too good not to share. Today its founder’s sons, Federico and Stefano Moccia, preside over a boutique resort in the truest sense of the phrase."
"The seaside castaway seclusion of Manda Island, steeped in Swahili, Arab and Indian influences, met a dream team of architects and artists, including Julian Schnabel. The result is a hotel thick with personality, a place whose every square foot feels thoughtfully, intentionally designed."
"In the end it’s less like a hotel, perhaps, than an impeccably tasteful guest house – perhaps not surprising, given its origins – albeit a guest house which sprawls across three separate villas, and whose rooms and suites are outfitted with every luxury-hotel comfort."
House rules
- • Check-in from 14:00 · Check-out by 11:00
- • 2-night minimum stay
- • Guest capacity confirmed at booking
- • 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.
Verified by Miki — 47 checks
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.
More in lamu
Asali House, Shela Village, Lamu
4 beds · sleeps 8
A 4-bedroom family home tucked away on the outskirts of fashionable Shela, Asali is welcoming yet secluded and private. Named after the Kiswahili word for honey, Asali is a sweet spot for relaxed village living, with the seafront and beach just a few minutes’ stroll away. Highlights: A calm, comfortable and attractive new retreat; Charming rustic-chic, Swahili-modern accommodation; Swimming pool and lush, shady gardens; A short walk from the seafront, Peponi Hotel and Shela’s other attractions; Just 400 metres from the beach via the village or sand dunes; Accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 double/twin bedrooms; From Kes 35,000 per night for upto 2 guests ‘self-catering’ with chef and staff.
Beach House, Shela Village, Lamu
5 beds · sleeps 12
This magnificent 5-bedroom private home sits in a commanding position above Shela beach, enjoys wonderful ocean views from its beautiful gardens, roof terraces and dramatic infinity pool and makes the perfect luxurious holiday retreat for up to a dozen fortunate guests Highlights: Shela’s most prestigious private holiday house; Space, calm and luxury beside the island’s beautiful beach; Spectacular infinity pool, gardens, roof terraces and dune-top gazebo; Excellent chefs & staff plus on-site management; Accommodates up to 12 guests in 5 ensuite bedrooms; 4 double bedrooms and 1 ‘quadruple’ bedroom – all ensuite with AC; Resident accommodation rates from Kes 180,000 per night.
Bembea House, Shela, Lamu
3 beds · sleeps 6
An airy and atmospheric multi-storey mansion designed and built in traditional Swahili style, Bembea House enjoys lovely views over sand dunes and village rooftops and is just moments away from the Shela seafront, Peponi Hotel and the island’s wonderful 8-mile beach. Highlights: A sophisticated sanctuary in one of the nicest locations in sought-after Shela; Decorated and furnished throughout in cool and harmonious style; Uncluttered but maximalist decor – filled with intricate plasterwork, woodwork and African artifacts; Dramatic double-height pillared entrance hall with zidaka wall niches; Elegant third floor living and dining room, spacious eat-in first floor kitchen; Scenic top floor terraces – part open, part makuti-thatched – with lounging, dining, bar and sunbathing areas; Situated on the southern fringes of Shela village – just 150 metres from Peponi and the beach.