Shella ward Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Lamu, Kenya

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Shella ward in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Shella ward, Lamu, Kenya to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Shella ward, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 97 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Shella ward, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Shella ward Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Shella ward Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$216
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Shella ward.
Occupancy Rate(?)
30.1%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$17,909
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Shella ward. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-9.2%
Slight decrease (-9.2%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
December
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Shella ward.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
March
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Shella ward.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
97
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Shella ward (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Shella ward is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Shella ward is typically December, while March often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Shella ward across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,791+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,073 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,255 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $457, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Shella ward

Shella ward Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Shella ward STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Februarysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while May experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Shella ward:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 73%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 51% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 27%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 12% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Shella ward

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Shella ward (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Shella ward involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Shella ward typically peaks in December and dips lowest during June. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $486+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $248 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $131 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $67 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Shella ward

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Shella ward (2025)

Peak Season (December, October, February)
  • Revenue averages $2,749 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 39.9%
  • Daily rates average $217
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,316 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 32.2%
  • Daily rates hold near $206
Low Season (March, September, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,868 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 31.4%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $210

Seasonality Insights for Shella ward

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Shella ward shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Shella ward's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,927, occupancy reaching a high of 45.3%, and ADRs peaking at $229.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $1,828, occupancy could drop to 25.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $201.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Shella ward.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Shella ward seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Shella ward (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Shella ward? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Shela Village
Charming coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for visitors looking to unwind in a picturesque setting with traditional Swahili culture.
Shela Beach, Lamu Fort, Shela Dhow Yard, Swahili House Museum, Lamu Old Town
Lamu Old Town
UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history and beautiful architecture. Attracts tourists interested in culture, history, and unique experiences in a car-free town.
Lamu Museum, Lamu Donkey Sanctuary, Old Swahili Architecture, Maulid Festival, Cultural Tours
Manda Island
A tranquil and less developed area with stunning beaches and nature. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway close to Lamu Town.
Manda Beach, Watersports Activities, Snorkeling and Diving, Wildlife Tours, Stargazing
Kiunga Marine National Reserve
A protected marine area with incredible biodiversity. Appeals to eco-tourists and adventure seekers wanting to explore marine life.
Diving and Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing, Boat Tours, Island Hopping, Coral Reefs
Kizingoni Beach
Known for its pristine sand and clear waters, this area is perfect for relaxed beach holidays and upscale accommodations.
Kizingoni Beach, Luxury Beach Front Villas, Sunset Views, Private Beaches, Relaxation
Lamu Museum
Cultural hub located in the heart of Lamu. Great for educating guests about the local history and traditions of the Swahili Coast.
Lamu Museum, Art Exhibitions, Cultural Workshops, Historical Tours, Local Artisans
Lamu Food Markets
A vibrant spot for food lovers, showcasing local cuisine and traditional Swahili dishes that reflect the area’s diverse culture.
Local Cuisine Tasting, Swahili Dishes, Food Tours, Market Stalls, Cultural Exchange
Shela Beachfront Properties
Offers direct access to the beautiful Shela Beach, making it highly desirable for beachgoers and those seeking relaxation by the ocean.
Beachfront Views, Water Activities, Luxury Rentals, Sunbathing, Beach Bars

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Shella ward (2025)

While Shella ward, Lamu, Kenya currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Shella ward to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Shella ward (2025)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Shella wardbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Beautiful beachfront ForodhaniHouse

Beautiful beachfront ForodhaniHouse

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$111,071
Revenue
54.8%
Occupancy
$759.90
Daily Rate
Taqwa Villa - Lamu, Shela

Taqwa Villa - Lamu, Shela

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$90,157
Revenue
56.5%
Occupancy
$371.24
Daily Rate
Mandarina Beach House

Mandarina Beach House

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$89,985
Revenue
61.6%
Occupancy
$398.90
Daily Rate
Pumbao House: A Stunning Villa With Swimming Pool!

Pumbao House: A Stunning Villa With Swimming Pool!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$81,831
Revenue
40.7%
Occupancy
$583.49
Daily Rate
Beautiful Villa in Shela, Lamu

Beautiful Villa in Shela, Lamu

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$73,864
Revenue
47.3%
Occupancy
$380.76
Daily Rate
Mnarani House, Shela, Lamu

Mnarani House, Shela, Lamu

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$70,972
Revenue
28.6%
Occupancy
$639.33
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Shella ward (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Shella ward based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Chloé5$130,8711214.87/5.0
Isabelle1$111,071264.81/5.0
Abdulrahman5$100,5153104.85/5.0
Livia6$93,276914.59/5.0
Annette1$90,157274.81/5.0
Mary Nini1$89,985544.91/5.0
Angelika1$81,8311324.86/5.0
Nina4$78,824433.67/5.0
Isabel Ann1$70,972664.88/5.0
Anthony1$57,680944.98/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Shella ward.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Shella ward STR Market Data (2025)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Shella ward. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Shella ward Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Shella ward

  • The Shella ward Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 61.9% of the 97 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • However, a notable 32% share for Private Rooms suggests opportunities for budget-conscious travelers or hosts renting out spare rooms.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Shella ward, House properties are the most common (58.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 58.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 26.8% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique (combined 2.0%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Shella ward Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Shella ward

  • The dominant room capacity in Shella ward is 1 bedroom listings, making up 34% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 5+ bedrooms properties represent 51.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Shella ward, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 40.1% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Shella ward.

Shella ward Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Shella ward

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Shella ward vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (26.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 2 guests dominate the Shella ward STR market, accounting for 50.5% of listings.
  • 39.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Shella ward.
  • On average, properties in Shella ward are equipped to host 4.3 guests.

Shella ward Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Shella ward

  • The most common availability pattern in Shella ward falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 63.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 83.5% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Shella ward (33%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 17.5% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Shella ward Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (46.3%)

1 Night

44 listings

46.3% of total

2 Nights (31.6%)

2 Nights

30 listings

31.6% of total

3 Nights (9.5%)

3 Nights

9 listings

9.5% of total

4-6 Nights (1.1%)

4-6 Nights

1 listings

1.1% of total

30+ Nights (11.6%)

30+ Nights

11 listings

11.6% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Shella ward is 1 Night, adopted by 46.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (77.9%) of the Shella ward Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (11.6%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Shella ward, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 46.3% of Shella ward hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 11.6% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Shella ward.

Shella ward Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (8.1%)

Flexible

6 listings

8.1% of total

Moderate (24.3%)

Moderate

18 listings

24.3% of total

Firm (14.9%)

Firm

11 listings

14.9% of total

Strict (52.7%)

Strict

39 listings

52.7% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Shella ward

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Shella ward is Strict, used by 52.7% of listings.
  • A majority (67.6%) of hosts in Shella ward utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 52.7% market standard in Shella ward.
  • With 52.7% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Shella ward, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Shella ward.

Shella ward STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Shella ward

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Shella ward is 56 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during October (average 86 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in June (average 40 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Fall (69 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Summer (52 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (56 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Shella ward.
  • For October stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 86 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 69 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Shella ward averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Shella ward (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Shella ward

  • Essential amenities in Shella ward that guests expect include: Wifi. Lacking these (this) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Kitchen, Essentials, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Shella ward: Wifi.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen or Essentials to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Shella ward to stay competitive.

Shella ward Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Shella ward

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Shella ward consists of predominantly international visitors (78%), with top international origins including United Kingdom, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
  • Domestic travelers account for 21.8% of guests.
  • Key international markets include Kenya (21.8%) and United Kingdom (19.9%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (43.7%) followed by French (13.4%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus marketing internationally, particularly towards travelers from United Kingdom.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Shella ward Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Dabaso ward101$2,051$172.4042%
Mkomami ward44$1,159$287.2124%
Mnarani ward34$1,059$153.0522%
Lamu24$982$126.6829%
Watamu ward236$892$152.9229%
Junju ward60$853$207.1521%
Watamu30$851$113.6833%
Kilifi75$796$129.8528%
Kibarani ward17$641$101.4924%
Malindi106$599$149.1828%

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