Beaches of Kenya’s North Coast

Kenya is famed for its scenic landscapes, dramatic Great Rift Valley, vast wildlife preserves, mountain highlands, and much more. One of the best highlights of Kenya, however, is the beautiful beaches found near the Kenyan Coast. The coast covers an area of 536 kilometres, which includes beaches, towns, and islands in the Indian Ocean.

The Kenyan Coast flaunts the most beautiful and majestic white sand beaches in the world. A visit to this country not only includes experiencing the safari but also enjoying an impeccable beach vacation. As a result, the coast attracts a large number of local as well as international tourists to enjoy its shores.

The Kenyan coast is rich in history, displays natural scenic beauty, and houses diverse cultures. Here, along with soft and powdery sands and pristine blue waters, one can appreciate dense mangrove forests, lagoons, remote islands, atolls, creeks, and secluded bays. As opposed to the South Coast, the North Coast ranks higher when it comes to viewing marine life. As there are several marine parks in the area, one can enjoy a wide range of activities and embark on boat excursions to different islands.

Nonetheless, for an ideal beach holiday, head over to the beaches on the North Coast of Kenya. The North Coast, which stretches from Nyali to Malindi, is noted for its extensive white sands, trading history, natural beauty, luxurious and top-class resorts, and fascinating Swahili ruins. With gently swaying palm trees and the comforting waves of the Indian Ocean, the North Coast has some of the most amazing beaches one could ever visit.

To save you time, here are the top beaches found on the Kenyan north coast:

 

Watamu

Watamu is a small and charming town that lies between Watamu Bay and the Blue Lagoon. Due to the area’s popularity, the town has become a favourite beach destination for many. Its shoreline features powdery white sand beaches and offshore coral formations.

The coral reef borders the coastline of Watamu Beach, surrounding it with small coves, broad lagoons, and bays. It maintains crystal clear and calm waters along its unique coastline. This Beach lies in the protected Marine National Park along with Gorada Beach, Turtle Bay, Jacaranda Beach, Watamu Bay, and more that stretch along the coastline.

Watamu’s azure waters make it the perfect location for snorkelling and diving activities. Its surrounding area is home to an abundance of wildlife and marine life. The prominent Watamu Marine National Park has around 600 fish species, more than 100 species of stony coral, and countless varieties of crustaceans, invertebrates, and mollusks. Watamu also offers fantastic restaurants, blending Arab, Indian, and Italian cuisines together. There are other attractions in close proximity to Watamu, such as Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve, Bio Ken Snake Farm, and the Local Ocean Trust, which protects sea turtles.

 

Malindi

Malindi is a spectacular town located at Malindi Bay that sits amid tropical beaches and resorts. It is located just 120 kilometres from Mombasa. The town is popular due to its gorgeous beaches and colourful coastlines. Malindi’s warm waters and soft sands attract tourists from all over.

Silversands Beach is one of the beaches found in the town. During low tides, one can enjoy walks to the coral reefs and witness the sea creatures without any disturbance. The beach has various water sports activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, scuba diving, and more.

Malindi Beach is found in Lake Malawi, located in the Mangochi district. The locals call it Buntwani and give it the nickname ‘The Golden Beach’ because of its golden sands that glimmer in the glaring sunshine. The beach, with its golden-brown appearance, hosts Swahili architecture and has a reputation for historical events.

Malindi Marine Park Beach features long sandy shores and a diverse underwater world. The marine park has fringing reefs, mangroves, coral gardens, marine mammals, turtles, and gigantic corals. Tourists can enjoy activities like snorkelling, boat rides, nature walks, and scuba diving. Nearby attractions include Marafa Hells Kitchen, which is an odd sandstone canyon; Vasco Da Gama Pillar; Gede Ruins; and Malindi Museum. This Marine Park also offers beach resorts, casinos, bars, and souvenir shops for visitors to enjoy.

 

Kilifi

A small coastal town, Kilifi, lies on the North Bank of Kilifi Creek. Kilifi is known for its beach sports activities coupled with stunning shorelines. It has earned its reputation as a hidden location, tucked into an estuary that leads to the Goshi River, as it has escaped most of the development period.

One of the most popular beaches in Kilifi is Kilifi Beach. It is located on the south side of Kilifi Creek. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing in peace under the palm and baobab trees that line the horizon. Water sports activities such as diving, sailing, snorkelling, or leisurely riding the dhow boats are available. There are diving schools available for beginners on the beach as well.

Bofa Beach is another beach that is located in the northern part of Kilifi, along the coastline. It is a stunning beach fringed with swaying palm trees that continue for miles. A vast coral reef decorates its turquoise waters. Along with sporting activities, visitors can simply relax, appreciate the scenic beach, and relish the cuisine offered by restaurants situated nearby.

Major attractions near Kilifi include Gosana Culture and Nature Park, Mnarani Ruins, which are 14th-century ancient Swahili settlements, and the Portuguese Chapel.

 

Mombasa

Mombasa is a coastal city also referred to as the blue and white city in Kenya. Its location on the Indian Ocean has transformed the city into a historical trading centre. 

The north coast of Mombasa showcases its natural vistas and interesting history. Its breathtakingly blue waters are alive with the greatest abundance of marine wildlife. Just like Diani Beach, located in the South of Mombasa, the city’s north coast is lined with spotless seashores. The huge mouth of Kilifi Creek breaks the beaches, which have towering palm trees.

One of the popular beaches is Nyali Beach, set on the mainland north of Mombasa County. The coral reef protects Nyali, a westernised residential area that boasts a beautiful white sand coastline. There are several luxurious resorts and hotels, numerous places for entertainment, and numerous dining spots.

The laidback Kikambala Beach, located North of Mombasa, is a laidback paradise. Visitors can enjoy water sports and lounge on the beach for hours until the sun sets. Visitors can also explore the tropical forest inland and enjoy shopping at Bamburi shops.

The North Coast of Kenya provides cultural, historical, and recreational sites along with scenic beaches. For a wholesome vacation, make sure to include the above-listed beaches while travelling to Kenya.

 

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