Utterly fantastic. We did think the trip through a bit before going, especially as we have younger children, but decided to go keep to our plans: we had an absolutely  superb stay. Lamu island itself is wonderful, and surprisingly hassle free, and Peponi Hotel itself was one of the best places we've ever had the pleasure of staying at. We felt safe everywhere we went. 

We were met at the airport, and taken by boat to a genuinely warm welcome. The setting is awesome, the beach magnificent and rooms just perfect. Staff knew our names, helped organise everything we wanted to do, and put no pressure on us to use more of the hotel trips than we felt comfortable with. Carol, Lars and Andrew were particularly helpful and the food was first class. 

The final icing on an already splendid cake was the new year's day dhow race - a magnificent spectacle with a real spirit of excitement. 

We know that the Uk suggests caution in travelling here, but going was hugely the right decision. I suspect you're more at risk of mishap driving to the airport than from any local trouble in Lamu.

Just back from a 6 night stay at the Peponi in Lamu. It was a great experience. Things feel very safe there, and we did some great snorkelling. The hotel is idyllic. It does not leave you feeling like you are in a garrish, over-touristy hotel, but has all the comforts. It is owned by a family (second generation now running it), and while you have your privacy, it can almost feel like staying in the lavish home of a friend. The staff are exceptional: friendly and capable. The location is the best in the region, with lovely winds, a great beach and close to Shela's amenities. We arrived there with no luggage (Kenyan airways doesn't get such a positive review). The hotel worked all work with their contacts to deal with the missing luggage, and the owner even lent us clothing to get us through. They think through all the possibilities that you may need. The food is outstanding. It was really lovely.
One thing worth noting regarding the recent travel concerns in the region - Shela (and the Peponi) are really well located and the area is well patrolled: by the military, Kenyan police and private security at the hotels, etc. Surprisingly, you don't really notice it (ie you don't feel like you're in some sort of police state), but it also feels very safe.

We visited this hotel a few years ago on the advice of a travel agent to unwind before our Safari. What an amazing place. You arrive by local motor/sail boat after landing at the air field on the nearby mainland. The hotel is owned and operated by a European couple who have been there for decades are well respected for their local involvement. They even run a sea turtle rescue and beach clean-up operation! The employees are all long timers and local offering wonderful personal service. The amazing part is you walk out of the beachfront compound and you are immediately in a Muslim village with no cars, numerous mosques, fascinating mostly non-tourist shops, and wonderful walking opportunities. The larger town is about 20 minutes by foot or there is a water taxi. This town too is fascinating.
The hotel accommodations are excellent, the food exotic and wonderful and the staff first class. A great retreat before or after a safari!

I stayed at Peponi last month (November) and it was great, first we got an upgrade to superior rooms due to the fact that there are not so many bookings after people canceled out of fear of Alshabaab...

It felt very safe and the peaceful, I loved every bit of it. From the sun downers at the terrace, the pool, the beach walks and the food...simply awesome

I am not a big fan of the speed boat ride so that wasn't the best part but again it is inevitable for as long as you are in Lamu

The only thing you have to watch out is mosquitoes, as much as they have nets there are so many of them that you will need a repellent