Chale Island

Chale Island is Kenya's sole private island escape, situated approximately four degrees south of the equator. It lies at the northern end of Msambweni Bay in Kwale County, southeastern Kenya, about 10 kilometers from Diani Beach and 600 meters off the mainland. The island measures roughly 1.2 kilometers long and 0.8 kilometers wide. Access to Chale Island is facilitated around the clock by boat or tractor, depending on tidal conditions. Historically, the island holds cultural significance as it is named after a Digo warrior, Chale, who was buried there, and it is considered a sacred "kaya" or worshipping place by local communities.The island is a tropical haven characterized by pristine coral seas, lush coastal forests, and extensive mangrove ecosystems. Its landscape boasts snow-white sandy beaches, with a notable stretch in the northeast extending 175 meters from the resort and 70 meters deep. Vibrant coral reefs are located approximately 750 meters offshore from this beach. The eastern side of the island provides views of Gazi Town and is fringed by mangrove woods that connect to Gazi Bay, while a substantial mangrove forest also dominates the western side. Internally, Chale Island features a saltwater mangrove lake, whose levels fluctuate with the natural tides, and a protected sacred forest known as "Kaya".Chale Island is rich in biodiversity, supporting two troops of indigenous Colobus Monkeys and serving as a crucial nesting ground for endangered Green Turtles, with hatchlings frequently observed. The surrounding marine environment teems with life, offering opportunities for sightings of whale sharks, the ocean's largest fish, and migrating whales. A diverse array of birdlife also inhabits the island. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, mangrove tours, and deep-sea fishing. The island hosts an in-house PADI diving center and offers glass-bottom boat excursions and catamaran sailing for exploring the vibrant marine world and enjoying sunsets.