Find hotels in Nkhata Bay from £40

Top reasons to visit Nkhata Bay

• Stunning Beaches: Nkhata Bay features beautiful beaches like Chikale Beach, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a range of activities such as diving, boat safaris, and biking, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Rich Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the town and experience local customs and traditions.
• Scenic Landscapes: The area boasts breathtaking landscapes, making it a romantic getaway for couples.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming lodges and beachside cottages to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in and around Nkhata Bay

Nkhata Bay offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, perfect for every type of traveller. From charming lodges to inviting beachside cottages, you can find the ideal spot for a family getaway or an adventurous escape. With hotels like Njaya Lodge and various others, you’ll enjoy stunning views and easy access to the area's natural beauty. Discover the perfect base for your Malawian adventure in this captivating coastal haven.

• Njaya Lodge: Nestled in the heart of Nkhata Bay, Njaya Lodge is a 3-star haven for adventurous travellers and families alike. With direct access to the beach, guests can immerse themselves in a variety of adventure sports such as kayaking, hiking, and snorkelling. The lodge offers onsite boat tours, ensuring an exciting and memorable experience. Additionally, it caters to younger guests with a range of child-friendly services and amenities, making it an ideal choice for family vacations. The lodge’s vibrant atmosphere and focus on recreation provide a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Sunbird Mzuzu: Located 13.0km away from Nkhata Bay, Sunbird Mzuzu is a distinguished hotel that combines comfort with an array of dining options. Guests can relish meals at the on-site restaurant, unwind at the bar, or enjoy complimentary continental breakfast. For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel features fitness facilities and nearby golf courses. After a day of exploration, guests can indulge in entertainment options, including a lively nightclub and satellite television. Sunbird Mzuzu offers a delightful retreat for those seeking both relaxation and excitement during their stay.
• Sunbird Chintheche Inn: Also situated 13.0km from Nkhata Bay, Sunbird Chintheche Inn is a family-friendly hotel that provides direct access to the beach, making it perfect for those seeking a seaside escape. The inn boasts amenities specifically designed for children, including a shared playground and art supplies, ensuring that younger guests have a memorable stay. The tranquil setting and focus on family experiences make Sunbird Chintheche Inn an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy quality time by the water.

Where to stay near Nkhata Bay

Nkhata Bay, nestled along the shores of Lake Malawi, offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Explore the stunning Chikale Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports, while the vibrant atmosphere of the town invites you to savour local culture. With a variety of recreational options and budget-friendly accommodations, Nkhata Bay is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in this beautiful region of Malawi.

• Mzuzu: Situated 14.3km from Nkhata Bay, Mzuzu is a vibrant city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and eco-friendly experiences. Visitors flock here throughout the year, particularly in June, September, and December. Mzuzu is known for its picturesque nature reserves, inviting beaches, and captivating water features, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The city also serves as an educational hub, providing insights into local culture and the environment. Whether you're exploring the local attractions or enjoying the stunning landscapes, Mzuzu promises a fulfilling travel experience.
• Chintheche: Just 11.2km from Nkhata Bay, Chintheche is a charming city that captivates visitors seeking a romantic and outdoor experience. The peak travel months are April, July, and September, when the allure of its beautiful beaches and tranquil lakes draws in tourists. Birdwatching is a popular activity here, with the area’s rich biodiversity providing ample opportunities for nature lovers. Chintheche's inviting atmosphere and scenic landscapes create a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, making it a must-visit for those wanting to connect with nature and enjoy a romantic getaway.
• Mlenga Senga: Located 18.6km from Nkhata Bay, Mlenga Senga is a quaint village that offers a unique and serene travel experience. This destination is particularly popular during its peak seasons in February, August, and October to November. Visitors come to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, tranquil lakes, and beautiful beaches, making it ideal for outdoor lovers and couples seeking romance. Mlenga Senga's seasonal visitor patterns mean you can experience a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty and local culture.

Things to do near Nkhata Bay

Nkhata Bay is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy diving at local dive schools, embark on exciting boat safaris, or explore the area by biking. With its beautiful landscapes and opportunities for adventure, Nkhata Bay promises a memorable experience for all travellers.

Shopping

Nkhata Bay offers a vibrant market scene where you can find local crafts and souvenirs. The bustling Nkhata Bay Market is perfect for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Mzuzu City, home to larger shopping centres with a wider selection of goods.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Mzuzu Stadium, located 13.0km from Nkhata Bay, where you can engage in various sports activities. Enjoy the energetic vibes while participating in local events or simply soaking in the lively environment that the stadium offers.

Adventure

In Nkhata Bay, explore the breathtaking landscapes while kayaking on Lake Malawi, where vibrant fish and serene waters await. Venture on a guided hike through lush forests to discover stunning waterfalls, or immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to bustling markets and traditional villages.

Nightlife

Nkhata Bay offers a vibrant nightlife, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Enjoy a drink at the lively Mango Lodge, or indulge in local flavours at the serene Chikale Beach. For music lovers, the Nkhata Bay Music Festival promises an unforgettable experience under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nkhata Bay

To save money during your visit to Nkhata Bay, consider travelling in January, March, or May when accommodation prices are lower, and aim to book your stay on a Saturday for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly hotels, particularly eco-certified options. Additionally, look for package deals that combine your hotel with flights and activities to maximise savings. Enjoy free activities around the bay, and utilise local public transport to keep travel costs down while exploring this beautiful region.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Nkhata Bay are January, March and May, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Nkhata Bay is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Nkhata Bay is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget and desired location, among other preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Nkhata Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Nkhata Bay

Nkhata Bay is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, boasting stunning beaches, captivating water features, and nature reserves. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying a variety of activities, from sunbathing on picturesque shores to exploring the vibrant surroundings. This charming area perfectly caters to travellers in search of both relaxation and enriching experiences.

• Chikale Beach: Nestled within Nkhata Bay, Chikale Beach boasts stunning sandy shores and vibrant beach vibes. It's a perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying the tranquil waters of Lake Malawi, making it an ideal retreat for sun-seekers.
• Kande Beach: Located 17.4km from Nkhata Bay, Kande Beach offers a lively atmosphere with an array of water sports and activities. The picturesque setting, combined with its welcoming community, provides a delightful experience for both relaxation and adventure.
• Mzuzu Wildlife Conservation Park: Approximately 12.4km away, this reserve offers an adventurous escape into nature. Explore diverse wildlife and lush landscapes while enjoying guided tours that enhance your understanding of the region’s conservation efforts.

Best time to go to Nkhata Bay

The best time to visit Nkhata Bay is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	68.7°F (20.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	71.4°F (21.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Nkhata Bay

To visit Nkhata Bay, you can fly into two major airports. Mzuzu Airport (ZZU) is located 13.7km away, with nearby accommodation options such as the Grand Palace Hotel and Sunbird Mzuzu, both 621m from the airport, offering various transportation services including scheduled shuttles. Rayoni Guesthouse B&B is slightly closer at 497m. Alternatively, you can fly into Likoma Island Airport (LIX), 27.3km from Nkhata Bay. Notable lodges nearby include Kaya Mawa and Ulisa Bay Lodge, both 1.2km away, providing airport shuttles upon request with applicable fees. These options ensure convenient access to your destination in Malawi.