Once you get to Lamu, Kenya, you know you're in for a relaxing time. Some visitors to Kenya like to hit the beaches, sometimes exclusively, sometimes to decompress a bit after a safari or other exciting tour. In and around Lamu, travelers will experience Swahili culture, great Kenya beaches, and some of the best resorts in the country. The hotels in Lamu offer a pretty good mix, and there are choices here to fit just about any budget. For budget travelers, there are a few guest houses available, some offering breakfast in their low, low rates. A couple of nice, mid-priced Lamu hotels also exist if you want a bit more, and those looking for the ultimate Lamu lodging experience will certainly be happy with the choices. Here are some Lamu accommodation suggestions should you be headed there sometime soon.

For those seeking budget Lamu lodging options, the Casuarina Rest House is hard to top. This isn't because of the rooms, which are alright enough, but more for the atmosphere. This is a backpacker's haven, boasting a social setting where you can meet plenty of other interesting travelers. The rooms here are pretty basic, but clean, and mosquito nets and fans are provided to help keep you comfortable. The real draw here is the rooftop terrace, which is quite large. Guests love hanging out on the terrace, and it helps that a pretty good breakfast is included in the rates. There is a top-floor double here that you might try to book if it's available, as it's got a nice balcony. The Casuarina Rest House is usually full, and reportedly, more rooms are slated to be added, and they might be ready by the time you arrive.

If you want a good, mid-to-upper-end hotel in Lamu Town, you might choose to stay at the Lamu Palace Hotel. Traditional Arab architecture characterizes this Lamu accommodation option, and guests can choose from 20 self-contained double rooms and 3 suites. Each of the rooms has comfortable beds, air conditioning, Lamu furniture, and a private, en-suite bathroom. The rooms aren't utterly luxurious by any means, but they are pretty nice for Lamu hotels found in town. There is a good rooftop restaurant here, and since you're on the coast, you can expect your dining experience to feature plenty of fresh seafood. You might relax in either the hotel's library or lounge, and the rear courtyard has a bar where you can grab some snacks and drinks. The Lamu Palace Hotel has a pool to offer guests, though it's not found on-site, and they offer boat rides to a private beach on Manda Island.

Found near Lamu is Shela Beach, which is where a good amount of Lamu visitors like to stay if they can. You will find some of the more upscale resorts at Shela, and one of the favorites is the Peponi Hotel, which while somewhat simple, still manages to impress. Small and intimate, the Peponi Hotel exudes just enough luxury to make you feel at ease, and the staff is keen on keeping guests happy. There are two choices here for rooms, and they are the standard rooms and the superior rooms. All of the rooms have ocean views, and though they do not have air-conditioning, they do have ceiling fans. Thankfully, the ocean breezes help to keep things more comfortable. Simple beauty is found in all of the rooms, which feature showers, mosquito nets, safes, nice furnishings, clean linens, and lovely and fresh flowers. One of the nicest things about staying at the Peponi Hotel is enjoying the excellent food. There is also a small, but delightful outdoor pool, and the hotel bar is a great place to hang out and socialize. A good value among the hotels in Lamu, the Peponi is full of undeniable charm.

Offering spacious cottages that are found on the beach, the Manda Bay is a resort/lodge that is both exclusive and inviting. Guests can redefine the meaning of relaxation here, and since there are only 16 cottages to choose from, you won't feel overwhelmed by crowds and such. Since the Manda Bay enjoys a private and serene location, you'll find it to be very calming, and you're just a short boat ride from Lamu. All of the cottages at this excellent Lamu hotel choice are built in an attractive and traditional style, and they offer lovely beds, great bathrooms, and small fridges. You can enjoy spending time on your cottage veranda, and when you get hungry, you can enjoy a delicious meal either in the casual dining room, or on the beach. Perhaps you might even enjoy dining as you ride on the hotel's dhow (traditional boat).