Kenya is a famous safari destination. But this diverse East African country also boasts an idyllic Indian Ocean coastline dotted with palm-lined beaches, pristine coral reefs and centuries-old Swahili port. The main air, rail, and road gateway to the coast is Mombasa, an island-based city flanked by some beautiful beaches, including Diani, Nyali, and Pranburi. There are many other beach holiday options along the coast, such as around Watamu, Malindi and Ram. Here, we introduce you to the 10 best beaches in Kenya, starting south of Mombasa and stretching north to the remote Lamu Islands.
Ghazi
The Swahili fishing village of Ghazi stretches all the way to a beautiful bay sheltered by a narrow peninsula that terminates on the island of Char. The northern part of the bay supports one of the largest mangrove swamps in southern Kenya, while the eastern shore is a charming and relatively undeveloped swimming beach. Even more amazing is the small beach on the island of Chalay, although this is reserved for guests of the only hostel on the island.
- Location: 45 km/27 miles south of Mombasa
- Things to do: In addition to the usual beach activities, Ghazi has a mangrove boardwalk run by local community women's groups. Here you can see six species of mangroves, amphibious mudskippers and dazzling mangrove kingfishers.
Diani
Beautiful Diani is the most popular beach resort near Mombasa or anywhere in Kenya. A perfect blend of fine white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, it's home to some of the country's top beach hotels, which are far enough away from each other not to feel crowded. The coastal forest of Diani is home to three species of monkeys and many forest birds.
- Location: 32 km/20 miles south of Mombasa
- Things to do: Windsurfing; diving and snorkeling trips to Wasini Island; Simba Private Animal Sanctuary Day Tour
Nyali Beach
Nyali Beach is the closest beach to Mombasa and an enticing destination for a day trip from the city centre. Kenya's longest-serving beach resort, it first gained popularity when it opened a hotel in the 1940s. Despite its proximity to the city, it is a lovely swimming beach and is home to several famous hotels.
- Location: Just 3 km/2 miles north of central Mombasa, like a crow flying, but twice as far by road
- Things to do: Local attractions include Nyali Golf and Country Club, the only 18-hole course in the country
Kenyatta Beach
Named after Kenya's founding president, Jomo Kenyatta, this family-friendly beach is a popular holiday destination among Mombasa's residents. This makes it a great place to enjoy a pristine beach experience with local Kenyans. It can get crowded on weekends but is quieter on weekdays.
- Location: 9 km/5 miles north of central Mombasa
- Things to do: Family-friendly facilities include a water slide park. Take a glass-bottom boat tour through the coral gardens of Mombasa Marine National Park and reserve.
Shanzu and Pranburi beaches
Among the most popular beaches in Kenya, Sanzu and Pranburi are adjoining beaches that stretch over 5 km/3 miles south of Mtwapa Creek. Like Nyeli, the setting is a bit of a suburban but the beach is completely idyllic and perfect for swimming at high tide.
- Location: 10 km/6 miles north of central Mombasa
- Things to do: Windsurfing; diving and snorkeling trips in Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve; Enjoy a glass of wine and dine at one of the many great beachfront restaurants
Kilifi
A focal point for Kenya's yachting community, this small creekside town is surrounded by beautiful palm-lined beaches that remain relatively unknown to visitors. The nearby Munalani National Monument houses the largest baobab tree in Kenya and the well-preserved ruins of the medieval Swahili trading port.
- Location: 70 km/42 miles north of Mombasa
- Things to do: Swim well at high tide. Sea excursions can be organized through the hotel.
Watamu
My favorite Kenyan beach resort, Watamu is very beautiful but comes out in an unconventional way, thanks to spectacular coral outcrops that protrude like mushrooms from the bay. Watamu's proximity to Malindi Marine National Park, Gedi Ruins, Mida Creek and Arabukosok Forest Reserve makes it the perfect Indian Ocean getaway for active, curious travellers.
- Location: 110 km/66 miles north of Mombasa and 23 km/16 miles south of Malindi
- Things to do: Swimming and all the usual beach and water sports are available. You can snorkel offshore in the magnificent coral gardens of Turtle Bay, or you can join a diving excursion deep into the Marine National Park. Don't miss the medieval ruins of Gedi's atmosphere, the Arabukosokekai National Park Forest Reserve for hikers, or the bird hideouts and boardwalks built by the Mida Creek community.
Malindi
Malindi, Kenya's second largest coastal town, is a medieval port that culminated in an alliance with Portugal against Mombasa in the 16th century. Historic landmarks include a 15th-century pillared tomb, a 16th-century Portuguese church, and a windswept limestone cross erected by Vasco da Gama in 1499. The swimming beach is very attractive, and the strong Italian atmosphere makes many beachfront restaurants possible.
- Location: 120 km/75 miles north of Mombasa. Malindi Airport is located on the outskirts of the city.
- Things to do: As Kenya's most urbanized resort, Malindi excels in restaurants and other such facilities. Snorkeling and diving activities can be easily arranged, as well as safaris to Tsavo East National Park, 100 km/60 miles west.
Manbrui
Stretching north from the mouth of the Galana River and surrounded by tall golden dunes, this wide stretch of sand is one of the best in Kenya. Very beautiful and completely unspoiled, this is a great option for those who want to get off the beaten track.
- Location: 25 km/15 miles north of Malindi
- Things to do: Good for swimming and kitesurfing. Amenities are limited, but that's part of its appeal.
Lamusira Beach
Separated from the northern mainland by a narrow strait, the Lamu Islands are arguably the most fascinating destination off the coast of Kenya. Its cultural focus is the town of Lamu, an atmospheric medieval trading post that retains strong Swahili architectural features. There are also some beautiful beaches on both sides of the archipelago, and there's nothing better than Sierra – a 10km/6-mile stretch of sparkling white sand just a 40-minute walk from the town of Lamu.
- Location: 215 km/130 miles north of Malindi. Most tourists fly to Lamu.
- Must-do: Sheila Beach is unspoilt and pleasing to the eye. For most visitors, the activity is equivalent to basking in the sun and occasionally taking a dip in the sea.