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Kenya Beaches

Kenya still has areas of idyllic Indian Ocean coast and islands, with fine palm-studded coral sands. Styles range from private and personal to playful and activity-filled, which Kenya does well. We generally prefer accommodation in utterly lovely private houses dotted along the coast, but there are alternative boutique or classic hotel options. Certain choices are better suited to families, fishing or lower budget charismatic hideaways.

The Kenyan beaches are still lovely in parts, but the main hotspots are over-developed and quite ruined by mass-market tourism.
It is still possible to find secluded enclaves, however, and there are some very exclusive, well hidden lodges dotted discreetly along the coast. Best of all is the northernmost coast on and around Lamu.

The Southern Coast : Stretching approximately 100 kilometres down to the Tanzanian border, the most famous of the beaches here is Diani, a truly awe-inspiring stretch of white powder beach which has steadily become more and more popular and developed. Beyond Diani is Shimba, the best point for basing yourself for fishing and diving expeditions. 

The Northern Coast : Running up to Malindi and then undeveloped until the Somali border, the northern coast is ideal for those looking to disappear. The region around Malindi and Watamu is, similar to Diani, both stunningly beautiful and beginning to become very built up, but there are still small villas and lodges that maintain a feeling of seclusion.

The Islands off the Kenya Coast: Spanning from the south to the far north and ranging from the sand spit formations and protected lagoons of the north, to the inland waterways of Lamu and the Mangrove estuaries of the south. All of the islands have superb beaches and, generally, each has space in abundance and miles to wander at leisure.
  • Still some exotic hideaways dotted up the coast
  • Great fishing at Hemingways, near Watamu
  • Heavenly hideaway at Kiwayu, north of Lamu
  • Charismatic, smaller options around Diani, south of Mombassa