Beach

The Swahili Coast

The trade winds of the Indian Ocean blow softly onto the beautiful and relaxing coasts of Kenya, which offer some of the most stellar beaches in the world, warm waters of the Indian Ocean and a revitalizing sun that’ll restore your body and soul. It is the perfect place to get away from the stress of everyday life or to relax before and after an exciting safari.

The main destination on the coast, Mombasa undoubtedly boasts some of the best white sandy beaches and coral reefs that Africa has to offer, but the real gems of this magical coast lie further away from this bustling town.

Moving north up the coast, Malindi, Watamu, and Lamu all offer utterly unforgettable experiences. Watamu (meaning sweet in Swahili) is a typically laid-back beach town perfect for spending tranquil days by the ocean and exploring the astounding marine life on the coral reef and shimmering lagoons.

Lamu town situated on an island by the same name is a place like no other, a peaceful tropical island where life is lived at its own relaxed rhythm, but a place whose history is as mysterious and fascinating as the winding streets of its medieval stone town. The island itself is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and endless beaches, where tiny villages nestle among coconut and mango plantations and lateen sailed dhows ply the waters.

Down on the south side of the coast are the heavenly beaches of Diani and its adjacent islands of Chale and Funzi. With its 17 kilometers of flawless, soft white sands hugged by the lush greenery of palms and mangroves and the striking shade of emerald blue that emerges from its clear warm waters, Diani Beach is pure heaven and has been deservedly awarded the best beach destination in Africa for 5 years running.

All along the Kenyan Coast, you can enjoy activities like deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, diving, dolphin watching, dhow cruises, golfing and shopping in the local marketplaces. On this idyllic paradise, which whispers to your soul, life slows down, and long days are spent strolling along the beach, or exploring the colorful, vibrant towns steeped in history. Whatever you do, you’re guaranteed a romantic experience that can become a lifelong affair.