Chale Island

Kenya's only private island resort floats less than the length of a soccer field off the mainland yet feels a million miles away.

Surrounded by coral reefs and dense tropical foliage, the island offers one main beach as well as other small hidden strands where yours are likely to be the only footprints in the sand. Except for amphibian fins, that is, because Chale is a nesting site for numerous endangered sea turtle species.

At all hours of the day, you will be surrounded by crystal clear water with bright coral and a natural mangrove forest. Feel as if you're at one with nature, even if a kind team is waiting on you hand and foot. The Chale Island, which is 200 meters off the mainland, contains 15 acres of historic indigenous woodland as well as a tidal mangrove lagoon.

The Sands at Chale Island hotel wraps itself around the island's principal beach on the island's windward side. The resort can organize snorkeling or scuba diving in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, kayaking in the surrounding mangroves, catamaran sailing, deep-sea fishing, and trips up the coast to Diani Beach.

Location: Chale Island, Kenya