Top things to do on the Kenyan coast

Top things to do on the Kenyan coast : With the softest sand and a year-round warm azure sea, the Kenyan coast is unsurprisingly popular; many of tourists choose to come here after a Kenyan safari rather than travelling farther afield to Zanzibar. Just a short hop from the Maasai Mara will land you on uncrowded, palm-fringed beaches. Even though it’s a great place to relax, there are historic towns, mangroves, and coral reefs that are just waiting to be discovered. We can help whether you’re organizing a dreamy honeymoon in Kenya or just want to keep the whole family entertained while visiting the country.

Here are our top things to do on the Kenyan coast.

1. Sail in a Dhow.

A dhow is a typical one-sail wooden sailing boat in Swahili culture. Sailing a dhow across the port and up the Takwa River, stopping along the way to fish, and then having a barbecue on Manda Island’s sandy beach, is one of the main pastimes in the Lamu archipelago. Nothing beats a sunset dhow trip.

2. Kite Surfing.

The delightful warm water is always a bonus, and the soft wide beach and shallow sea make this the ideal area to practice and advance your skills. You will enjoy yourself in and out of the water when there is a great beach scene.

3. Explore Ancient Swahili Towns.

Explore one of Kenya’s most mysterious sites called  city of Gedi.

4. Reel in some Big Fish.

Watamu is an excellent safari destination for passionate amateurs and deep sea anglers to go fishing, as marlin, sailfish, spearfish, and swordfish are frequently caught there. There are multiple proficient skippers based in Watamu, so you can be sure that you will be going with a well-known expert. To see what you can reel in, grab your lures and reels and set out to the deep waters. Additionally, Diani Beach has excellent traditional dhow fishing.

5. Cruise the Mangrove Creeks.

Mida Creek is a tidal inlet with palm trees around it and a vast tangle of mangroves surrounding it.

Where to stay; The Medina Palm hotel provides tasteful accommodation in a variety of suites and villas that overlook the tropical gardens or the ocean.

6. Discover historical Kenya.

Mombasa, the classic tropical port. Enjoy a hot chapati and some milk tea at a street café while you people-watch.

7. Swim with whale sharks.

From November to February, these placid behemoths make their way down the Kenyan coast, and if you’re lucky, you may get to swim alongside them.

Where to stay; Nestled within 26 acres of coastal forest, The Sands at Nomad offers visitors seclusion and tranquilly right on the beach. On site, there is a PADI 5-star dive centre that provides spotting whale sharks, wreck exploration, and dive courses.

8. Go snorkeling and diving.

If you dive the middle Turtle Reef, you might come across sturgeon, colorful parrot fish, and, if you’re lucky, a white-tip reef shark. As if that weren’t enough, green sea turtles frequently deposit their eggs on the reef and can be seen there.

Situated in the vast Lamu Archipelago off the northern coast, the 50 offshore islands that make up the Kirunga Marine National Reserve are home to pristine coral reef ecosystems. With the possibility to dive and snorkel, it’s a terrific choice for families. Snorkelers may explore the mangrove forests and possibly glimpse a sea turtle or dugong seeking refuge, while divers can expect to discover reefs teeming with marine life.

Situated inside a lagoon, Coral Garden offers diving that is appropriate for all skill levels and is consistently tranquil due to its proximity to only 1000 metres offshore. There is a wide diversity of marine life at the location, which has a maximum depth of 7 metres. Underwater photographers particularly like going here because of the excellent visibility provided by the crystal clean seas.

Malindi Marine National Park; In 1968, the African continent’s first recognised protected marine reserves were Watamu and Malindi Marine National Parks. Malindi boasts impressive marine life, including some of the ocean’s most vibrant reef species. Divers can anticipate seeing a wide variety of marine life, from larger reef sharks, dolphins, and turtles in the vast coral reefs to smaller schools of angel fish. With dives ranging from 7 to 30 metres, Malindi Marine National Park can accommodate divers of all skill levels.

These diving spots lie off the south coast of Wasini Island, and the easiest way to get to them is from Diani Beach via thrilling dhow cruises. Strong currents and deep waters might be intimidating for visitors, but those who brave them can see uncommon zebra sharks, barracuda, and some of the biggest manta rays on the east coast of Africa. Our number one choice for seasoned divers is this.

9. Camel Ride.

Take a ride on a camel and stretch your legs while exploring Diani’s expansive, lengthy beaches. Admire the leisurely stroll of these magnificent animals while observing people going about their daily lives restaurants, sun worshippers, swimmers, etc.

Where to stay; Situated on the magnificent Galu beach along the Diani Coast lies the Pinewood Beach resort. Pinewood is a well-liked destination for patrons to return time and time again since it is understated and sophisticated, offers an amazing selection of watersports, and continuously meets high standards.

10. Pole-pole.

Pole-pole, which translates to “take it slowly” in Swahili, is the ideal place to do so along the Kenyan coast. Have leisurely strolls along the smooth, golden sand beaches, have a dip in the warm, azure sea, unwind with a beverage in hand as the sun sets and you watch dhows bob in the placid waters.

Where to stay; with a private chef and impeccable service, Almanara Luxury Villas provide an amazing, luxurious private villa experience. Nestled amidst towering palms and lush tropical gardens, these villas provide seclusion and ample space, along with easy access to the breathtaking beach right in front of you. There’s much to keep you occupied, but you should also take a moment to pause, gather your breath, and ‘pole-pole’ here.

Beach and Bush are still a timeless pairing for good reason. Beginning your safari in the sandy and dry Samburu region, stay at the magnificent Saruni Samburu, which offers panoramic views of the region’s desert terrain. Discover the vibrant Samburu tribes, see raptors in action, and observe endangered rhinos chowing down on blades of grass. After that, guests stay in a private conservancy in Mara North and head out onto the fertile plains of the Masai Mara. Renowned for both its vast migration and abundance of big cats, a Kenyan safari must include a visit to the Masai Mara.

Lastly, visit Diani Beach’s silky soft sands to indulge in a variety of watersports, unwind under swaying palm trees, or float in the warm, clear sea.