Four Twenty South

Each cottage has its own distinct floor plan, so all look and feel unique. In common, however, are large covered porches with generous outdoor patios where meals frequently happen and you're likely to loll about and doze during the heat of the day. Living rooms are outfitted with Swahili-inspired hardwood furnishings and plenty of cushioned seating. Wooden shutters are opened during the day to welcome in the natural light and breeze.

The cottages have between two and five bedrooms, catering for groups of four to 10 people. The rooms feel fresh, with white walls and large shuttered windows, decor that's simple and sparse but elegant. The local style is delightful. We especially admire the contrast between the light interiors and the dark timber used to make the furniture, including the deep four-poster beds, and the bright local textiles. Many of the rooms are en suite, with large walk-in showers.

The beach and ocean are your playground. In front of the lodge, shallow-water sandbars let you wade a good distance from shore with clear views of the bottom. Take a boat ride to the reefs for some good snorkelling and diving. Kite-surfing is popular, and there are some well-equipped outfitters nearby. The coast is flanked by dense vegetation, home to birds galore and colobus monkeys. And immerse yourself in wildlife at Shimba Hills Game Park, a few minutes' drive away.