lion In The Sun Boutique Hotel & Spa is an exclusive luxury boutique hotel and wellness retreat located on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline in Malindi. It is known for its secluded atmosphere, Afro-colonial design, tropical gardens, wellness facilities, and connection to the wider luxury hospitality scene around the Billionaire Resort area. 

Location

• Location: Marine Park Road, Malindi, Kilifi County, Kenya

• Setting: A quiet coastal environment near the famous Malindi Marine National Park and the Indian Ocean. 

• The hotel is approximately 300 metres from Billionaire Resort, with a connection between the properties for certain guest experiences. 

• Malindi Airport is the nearest airport, making the property accessible for both domestic and international travellers via Kenya’s coastal transport links. 

History and Background

Lion In The Sun began as a private Malindi retreat associated with Italian businessman Flavio Briatore before being developed into an exclusive luxury hospitality destination. The property became known for hosting high-profile guests and later evolved into a boutique retreat focused on privacy, relaxation, and wellness. 

The hotel’s philosophy is based around creating a peaceful sanctuary rather than a large resort experience. It combines:

• African cultural influences

• Swahili coastal heritage

• Arabic design elements

• Contemporary luxury touches 

Design and Architecture

The hotel’s design reflects the cultural mixture of the Kenyan coast:

Architectural style

• Afro-colonial interiors

• Natural materials such as wood and woven furnishings

• Hand-selected African artwork

• Tropical landscaping

• Open-air living spaces 

Atmosphere

The property emphasizes:

• Privacy

• Slow living

• Connection with nature

• Wellness and relaxation

Guests often describe the experience as more like staying in a private tropical villa than a conventional hotel. 

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Accommodation

The hotel offers a limited number of individually designed rooms and suites, creating an intimate boutique atmosphere. Reports describe the property as having around 16 rooms and suites, each decorated with unique furnishings and private outdoor spaces. 

Room categories include:

Standard Rooms

• Designed in Afro-colonial style

• Garden views

• Four-poster beds

• African artwork and handcrafted décor

• Approximately 27 m² rooms designed mainly for couples 

Superior Rooms and Suites

Features may include:

• Larger living spaces

• Private patios or balconies

• More exclusive décor

• Enhanced privacy 

Master Suites

Designed for guests seeking:

• Maximum space

• Luxury furnishings

• Private retreat-style accommodation 

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Dining Experience

The hotel restaurant focuses on refined cuisine using Kenyan ingredients. The concept combines local coastal flavours with international culinary techniques. 

Typical dining themes include:

• Fresh seafood

• Tropical fruits

• Local produce

• International fine dining influences

The setting emphasizes outdoor dining, gardens, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

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Spa and Wellness

The spa is one of the hotel’s major attractions. It is designed as a wellness sanctuary offering:

• Massage treatments

• Relaxation therapies

• Beauty treatments

• Fitness facilities

• Holistic wellness experiences 

The environment is built around:

• Tropical gardens

• Quiet spaces

• Natural surroundings

• Personal rejuvenation

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Facilities and Services

Guests can expect facilities such as:

• Swimming pools

• Fitness centre

• Spa

• Restaurant

• Free Wi-Fi

• Parking

• Room service

• Airport transfer options

• Beach access through nearby resort facilities 

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Activities and Experiences

Because of its Malindi location, guests can combine a stay with:

Marine experiences

• Snorkelling

• Boat trips

• Indian Ocean excursions

• Visits to Malindi Marine National Park 

Cultural attractions

Nearby attractions include:

• Vasco da Gama Pillar

• Gedi Ruins

Luxury leisure

• Private relaxation

• Sunset experiences

• Coastal dining

• Wellness retreats