Kenya is blessed with a stunning coastline along the Indian Ocean, offering a mix of beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and vibrant coastal cultures. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, a quiet beach escape, or exciting water sports, Kenya’s beaches have it all. Here’s your ultimate beach travel guide to help you explore the best coastal destinations in Kenya.

1. Diani Beach

Location: South Coast, 30 km south of Mombasa
Known For: White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and water sports
Highlights:

• Beaches: Diani Beach is known for its long, pristine beaches lined with palm trees and gentle waves—ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Water Sports: Diani offers excellent opportunities for kite surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. The coral reefs and marine life are stunning.
• Wildlife: Nearby Colobus Conservation protects the endangered Colobus monkeys, and Shimba Hills National Reserve is close for a safari in a coastal forest.

Best Time to Visit: December to March and July to October (dry season).

Activities:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the Diani Reef and Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park for vibrant marine life.
• Kite Surfing: Diani is a popular spot for kite surfers due to its ideal wind conditions.
• Colobus Conservation: Visit to learn about the conservation efforts for the Colobus monkey.
• Safari in Shimba Hills: Combine a safari with your beach holiday in this coastal forest reserve.

Accommodation: Luxury resorts like The Sands at Nomad, boutique beach hotels, or private villas along the beach.

2. Mombasa

Location: East Coast, Kenya’s second-largest city
Known For: Historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and busy beaches
Highlights:

• Old Town: Mombasa’s historical town boasts Swahili architecture, bustling markets, and the famous Fort Jesus—a 16th-century Portuguese fort.
• Beaches: While Mombasa has some popular beaches like Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach, they can be busier than the other quieter coastal areas.
• Marine Life: Visit Mombasa Marine National Park for fantastic diving and snorkeling among coral reefs and marine creatures.

Best Time to Visit: December to March (dry season).

Activities:

• Cultural Tours: Explore Fort Jesus and Mombasa’s Old Town with its mix of Portuguese, Arab, and Swahili influences.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Head to Mombasa Marine Park for snorkeling or diving with rich marine life.
• Relax on the Beach: Spend time at Bamburi Beach or Nyali Beach for a less crowded experience than Diani.

Accommodation: From mid-range hotels to high-end resorts like Serena Beach Resort & Spa and Voyager Beach Resort.

3. Watamu

Location: North Coast, 130 km north of Mombasa
Known For: Gorgeous beaches, quiet atmosphere, and marine parks
Highlights:

• Marine Life: Watamu Marine National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it an incredible destination for snorkeling and diving. The park is home to sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful coral reefs.
• Beaches: Watamu Beach is known for its soft sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming, relaxing, and water sports.
• Bird Watching: The Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, located nearby, is a haven for birdwatchers, home to over 230 bird species.

Best Time to Visit: December to March and June to October.

Activities:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the vibrant coral reefs in the protected marine park.
• Birdwatching: Visit Arabuko-Sokoke Forest for a chance to see rare species of birds.
• Relaxing at the Beach: Enjoy the tranquility of Watamu Beach with its palm trees and shallow waters perfect for swimming.

Accommodation: Exclusive resorts like Medina Palms, boutique hotels, or beachfront cottages for a more intimate experience.

4. Lamu Island

Location: Off the northern coast of Kenya, near the Somali border
Known For: Historical town, tranquil beaches, and Swahili culture
Highlights:

• Lamu Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic town offers a mix of Swahili architecture, narrow streets, and centuries-old culture.
• Beaches: Lamu’s beaches, like Shela Beach and Manda Bay, are serene, perfect for a peaceful getaway. The beaches are relatively quiet and pristine.
• Dhow Cruises: Sail on traditional wooden dhows along the coastline or to nearby islands.

Best Time to Visit: December to March (best weather), July to September.

Activities:

• Explore Lamu Old Town: Discover the charm of the town with its markets, mosques, and historical sites.
• Dhow Cruises: Take a leisurely boat ride to nearby islands and beaches.
• Relax on the Beach: Shela Beach is perfect for relaxation and unwinding.

Accommodation: Luxury boutique hotels like The Majlis Resort and smaller beach lodges that offer intimate, peaceful retreats.

5. Malindi

Location: North Coast, 120 km north of Mombasa
Known For: Quiet beaches, marine life, and Italian influence
Highlights:

• Beaches: Malindi Beach is known for its white sandy beaches and is less crowded compared to the more popular Diani and Mombasa beaches.
• Malindi Marine National Park: Excellent for diving, snorkeling, and seeing the underwater beauty of coral reefs and marine life like turtles and fish.
• Cultural Mix: Malindi has an interesting mix of Swahili and Italian influences, with many Italian-owned restaurants and resorts.

Best Time to Visit: December to March (ideal weather).

Activities:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the Malindi Marine National Park, known for vibrant marine life.
• Beach Relaxation: Unwind on the quieter, beautiful Malindi Beach.
• Explore Gede Ruins: Visit the ancient Swahili ruins at Gede, offering a glimpse into Kenya’s rich history.

Accommodation: Upscale resorts like Ocean Beach Resort & Spa and budget-friendly options by the beach.

6. Tiwi Beach

Location: South Coast, 15 km south of Mombasa
Known For: Peaceful beaches and a secluded atmosphere
Highlights:

• Seclusion: Tiwi Beach is much quieter compared to the more popular Diani Beach, making it perfect for those seeking peace and solitude.
• Tidal Pools: The beach features natural tidal pools, ideal for swimming and exploring marine life.
• Nature: With fewer tourists, it’s a great spot to explore nature and enjoy a private beach experience.

Best Time to Visit: December to March and July to October.

Activities:

• Swimming and Snorkeling: Explore the natural tidal pools and the shallow waters.
• Beach Relaxation: Spend time on a secluded beach away from the crowds.
• Cultural Experience: Visit nearby coastal villages to interact with the local communities.

Accommodation: Cozy boutique hotels and private villas offering beachfront stays.

7. Gazi Beach

Location: South Coast, near Diani
Known For: Quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination, mangrove forests
Highlights:

• Mangrove Forests: Gazi Beach is surrounded by mangrove forests and is perfect for eco-tourism and nature lovers.
• Birdwatching and Kayaking: It’s a great location for birdwatching and kayaking through the mangrove channels.
• Cultural Experience: Gazi is a village with a rich Swahili heritage, and visitors can learn about local traditions.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round.

Activities:

• Kayaking in Mangrove Channels: Paddle through the mangroves for a unique experience.
• Birdwatching: Observe a variety of birds in the area.
• Relax at the Beach: A peaceful spot to relax, away from crowds.

Accommodation: Eco-lodges and boutique hotels offering a peaceful beach stay.

General Tips for Beach Travel in Kenya:

1. Pack Light and Smart: Comfortable beachwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Don’t forget insect repellent, especially in coastal areas with mangroves.
2. Respect Local Culture: Coastal communities in Kenya are largely Muslim, so it’s polite to dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages.
3. Water Safety: Always check local conditions for swimming or water sports and be mindful of tides and currents.
4. Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to March and July to October) is perfect for a beach holiday, but the shoulder months (April and May) are quieter with fewer tourists.

Kenya’s beaches offer a variety of experiences, from luxury resorts to serene, untouched shores. Whether you’re looking to explore marine life, enjoy water sports, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, there’s a beach for every kind of traveler.