Kenya is famous for its safari parks, such as the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru, among many others. Witnessing wild animals in their natural habitats and embarking on thrilling game drives is an amazing vacation plan. But what’s even better is ending your safari trip at any of the fantastic beaches in Kenya.
A Kenyan beach vacation allows you to enjoy a break from the rugged safari adventures. Include these five beaches in your itinerary and enjoy a luxurious vacation:
Diani Beach
A well-known destination in Kenya, Diani tops the list as a tropical paradise, all thanks to its 17-kilometer coastline. It is among the best beaches to visit in Mombasa, a coastal area lined with stunning shorelines. While Diani is popular among tourists, it remains a laid-back and serene yet lively beach.
Soft white sands, turquoise waters, and swaying palms, Diani is an idyllic beach retreat. The waters remain shallow, which allows for a variety of water activities. Swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and more. Just 15 km away sits the small rainforest park of Shimba Hills National Reserve. This protected sanctuary is home to elephants, rare Sable antelopes, monkeys, and other wildlife.
Swahili Beach resort is the most premium accommodation in Diani. The resort offers a blend of culture and history along with stunning Swahili architecture. Another high-end resort is the Waterlovers Beach Resort in the heart of Diani. With limited rooms, expect a tranquil and sophisticated ambiance.
Watamu Beach
Located near Malindi, Watamu provides a small-town charm. It has glimmering white sands, beachfront resorts, rock pools, and a gorgeous coral reef. When the tide is low, the shallow waters allow for quick walks.
Traditional dhow cruise, swimming in natural pool tides, paddle boardings, and kitesurfing are just some activities enjoyed in Watamu. The best diving and snorkeling experience is offered by Watamu Marine National Park. This is an internationally recognized UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its diverse marine life. Sightings of dolphins and turtles in its pristine coral reefs and lagoons are an exciting venture. The Bio Ken Snake Farm is ideal for reptile lovers, for an educational experience.
For historical sightseeing, the Gede Ruins in Watamu depict the Swahili culture. This small town built in the 12th century is now overgrown with figs and baobab trees.
The Turtle Bay Beach Club, an inclusive resort, is set in ten acres of tropical gardens. The resort’s Turtle Bay Dive provides a variety of watersports, including dhow trips to Mida Creek. Another lavish resort is Median Palms, popular for its Swahili-style accommodation opening up to the views of the Indian Ocean.
Malindi
The coastal town of Malindi in southeastern Kenya is another great pick. The Malindi Bay is lined with a couple of picture-perfect beaches for an idyllic shore retreat.
The Silversand beach, stretching 3 kilometers long, is a popular beach in Malini. True to its name, this beach has glimmering silver sands that especially glow at night. Strolling on the beach and swimming in its warm waters are leisurely activities to enjoy.
To get away from the crowds, head to Che Shale Beach, known for offering a serene and secluded experience. Che Shale is one of the top destinations for kite surfing in East Africa. Along with other watersports like surfing, deep sea fishing, snorkeling in the shallow reefs, and many more, Che Shale offers a blend of relaxation and adventure.
If you’re up for a mini side quest, the Malindi Marine National Park & Reserve is an excellent spot. Coral gardens, lagoons, colourful reefs, mangroves and other habitats are home to wonderful marine creatures including dolphins and sea turtles. The Vasco Da Gama pillar, situated nearby, is another famous attraction.
Choose premium beach front resorts like the Billionaire Resort & Retreat and The Kasa to level up your beach escape to Malindi.
Lamu Island
In the far north coast of Kenya is Lamu Island, a tropical paradise called Lamu is slowly gaining attention.
The Shela beach stretches over 12 kilometers and is backed by sand dunes. It is among the most popular beaches of Lamu, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Manda Beach remains largely unexplored and offers all the seclusion needed. The best watersports are offered by Kipungani Beach in Lamu, while the Kirunga Marine National Reserve boasts stunning coral reefs.
After all the swimming and snorkeling, head towards the Lamu Old Town, the oldest yet best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. A quick historical tour around the town will reveal its rich trading past and the architecture inspired by Swahili and Islamic cultures. Along with spices, kitenge fabric, hand crafted jewelry, and fruits are good souvenirs to take home.
The Maljis Hotel Lamu and The Cabanas Lama resorts capture the beauty of Lamu Island, coupled with a luxury stay.
Tiwi Beach
Located between Mombasa and Diani, Tiwi remains an underrated beach spot. It has a towering coconut palm, casuarina trees, untouched golden sands, and a coastline stretching for kilometers. The quaint Tiwi Beach is known for its natural rock pools, also called the African pool. During the low tide, the rock pool appears in the shape of Africa. At these rock pools, marine life continues to thrive, offering good opportunities to witness aquatic animals.
For many, Tiwi is a less commercialized alternative to a beach, providing a rustic ambiance. Snorkeling and scuba diving are excellent, especially during low tides. Starfish spotting near the northern part of the beach is possible early in the morning. There are some facilities that offer water sports like kite surfing, kayaking, and wind surfing.
A few resorts, such as the Swahili House and The Coconut Beach Boutique Lodge & Spa in Tiwi, are ideal for an exceptional stay.
Include the above-listed beaches in your Kenya itinerary the next time you’re planning your trip to East Africa.
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