Diani Beach is the perfect sea side haven to wind down and relax on the quite shores of the Indian Ocean after a dusty bumpy safari through one of Kenya’s national parks. This tropical retreat has the best beaches in Kenya and can compete with the tropical seashores found anywhere else in the world, while having the bonus of being within a short distance of truly African safari experiences. In this paradise palm shaded white sand beaches border azure sea and lagoon waters and mangrove forests.
The waters are crystal clear and safe, making for excellent snorkelling and diving along the sandbars and reefs. The best time for diving is between October and March and the sea temperature fluctuates between a warm 23°C in July to an amazing 27°C in March. Some of the reefs become exposed during low tide and can be explored on foot or in dugouts and glass bottomed boats during high tides.
The beach is about 10km long in total and meets with the Kongo River in the north and the Mwachemba River to the south. Other attractions in the area include Tiwi Beach, Galu Beach, Chale Island, Funzi Island, Msambweni and Kinodo – all tropical paradises in their own right!
Diani Beach is also close to the Shimba Hills National Reserve so it’s possible to encounter the big five and go for a dive on the same day! Fishing, skydiving and kite surfing are some of the exciting activities to be enjoyed in the area.
On land visitors will find a vibrant island style town with a good mix of accommodation options ranging from large resorts to boutique hotels and guesthouses. The area is steeped in Swahili culture, as ancient as it is colourful, and a trip to the bustling local markets in the small town of Ukunda will reveal a world of rich textured cotton garments, unique jewellery and astounding wood works.
Diani beach is a mere 30km south of Kenya’s second largest city, Mombasa. With a capital of 1, 2 million this rustic and bustling seaside city is a major economic and cultural hub of the country. Given the areas proximity to Zanzibar, Nairobi and the Indian subcontinent and the Swahili seafaring tradition it is a historical melting pot of cultures famed for its unique musical styling’s and excellent nightlife. In Mombasa music is a central component of life.
