The Cabanas
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About The Cabanas
Nestled among swaying palms on Kizingoni Beach, The Cabanas Lamu sits on the southern shores of Lamu Island, deeply connected to the land and its history. More than a beachfront retreat, it reflects a carefully preserved family legacy and a long-standing relationship with this stretch of coastline.
Designed for refined, off-grid living, the property offers an elegant balance of barefoot luxury and thoughtful personal detail. With uninterrupted ocean views and a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere, The Cabanas invites guests to slow down and settle into the natural rhythms of island life, where simplicity, privacy, and place take centre stage.
Facilities
The Cabanas offer cool and comfortable accommodation for families, couples, or solo travelers across six private cabanas with sea views. Each cabana features a spacious, netted double (or twin) beds, ensuite bathrooms, and a private terrace. Some are crafted entirely from palm thatch, while others sit on elevated coral foundations, all carefully positioned to ensure maximum privacy. Surrounded by indigenous trees, flowering shrubs, and the sound of bird song, the cabanas are set on a raised sand dune along a long, tranquil stretch of coast. Guests share a stunning beachfront pool and private diningn pods, with panoramic views of the channel and ocean, where daily menus are thoughtfully prepared by the chefs, blending local flavours with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The ndividual poolside pods allow guests to relax in privacy while taking in uninterrupted sea views.
Activities
The Cabanas offers a unique blend of relaxed coastal living and immersive island adventures. The calm waters of Kizingoni Beach provide the perfect playground for watersports, including waterskiing, wakeboarding, donutting, kite surfing, and snorkeling. Guests can also enjoy leisurely dhow cruises along the coastline, taking in spectacular sunsets and the tranquillity of the channel.
For wellness and relaxation, guests can join morning and evening yoga sessions in the newly built, climate-controlled Shala, or indulge in bespoke spa treatments. On land, the rich culture of Lamu awaits exploration. Guided visits to local villages and markets, cycling through winding lanes, and learning traditional crafts offer insight into the island’s heritage. For quieter moments, sunset cocktails on the deck, reading by the pool, or simply soaking up the peaceful surroundings provide the perfect counterpoint to more active pursuits. Every day at The Cabanas balances gentle adventure with unhurried tranquillity, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rhythm of island life.
The Experience
At The Cabanas, emphasis is placed on simple, elegant living in harmony with the surroundings. It is a rare retreat where privacy, comfort, and a sense of place come together seamlessly - an off-grid sanctuary to relax, explore, and reconnect with the natural beauty of Lamu’s southern shores. For travellers coming from the bush or a busy safari itinerary, The Cabanas offers the perfect destination to slow down, breathe, and soak in the gentle rhythm of island life, providing a serene and luxurious conclusion to an unforgettable adventure.
Read MoreThe Team
Anna and Shawn| Owners
Born and raised on opposite sides of the globe, Shawn and Anna were each shaped by contrasting cultures and experiences. Shawn, a professional kitesurfer navigating the waters of Hawaii, and Anna, a neuroscientist turned filmmaker immersed in the wilds of East Africa, first met in a moment of instant connection that seemed impossible yet undeniable. Despite the 11,700-mile distance between Kenya and Maui and the concerns of loved ones as they upended their previous life plans, they trusted their instincts and followed their hearts. Today, they continue to nurture and evolve their off-grid island sanctuary, a personal labor of love that they are honoured to share with guests.
Winnie| Guest Experience Liaison & Office Manager
Winnie has been part of The Cabanas since 2020 and has grown beautifully into her role over the years. With a calm, positive presence and a natural sense of organisation, she plays a key role in ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes and on the ground.
With a background in hospitality and office management, and many years of hands-on training alongside Anna, Winnie brings both professionalism and warmth to her hosting. Her gentle temperament, attention to detail, and quiet leadership make her a reassuring and familiar face for guests. The team is incredibly proud to have Winnie leading the Cabana family with such care and dedication.
Doreen| Food & Beverage Manager
Doreen is the heart of hospitality at The Cabanas. As Food and Beverage Manager, she brings warmth, empathy, and genuine care to everything she does, ensuring guests always feel looked after and at ease. With an intuitive understanding of people and a deep sense of pride in her work, she has a remarkable ability to anticipate needs before they are voiced.
Her welcoming nature, attentive service, and calm presence embody the ethos of The Cabanas, making her an invaluable member of the team. Guests are truly in good hands when Doreen is around - her kindness and dedication leave a lasting impression.
Location
Where We Are
The Cabanas Lamu lies on Kizingoni Beach, on the southern shores of Lamu Island in Kenya.
Where to stay
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