Kenya is globally renowned for its breathtaking wildlife safaris, but beyond the savanna grasslands and game parks lies another hidden gem, which is its pristine coastline. A beach holiday in Kenya offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, combining the thrill of traditional game drives with the peace of the Indian Ocean’s white sandy beaches. From the historic town of Mombasa to the wonderful shores of Diani, Watamu, and Lamu, travelers are treated to a unique safari experience that goes beyond wildlife spotting.
Whether it’s diving among vibrant coral reefs, exploring Swahili culture, or unwinding after a safari in the bush, Kenya’s beaches provide the ultimate safari extension for those seeking both excitement and serenity in one destination.
- Where Beach Safaris Happen in Kenya
- Diani Beach
Located on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya, about 30 kilometers south of Mombasa, Diani stands as the best beach on the African continent. It’s celebrated for its pristine white sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The beach offers a wide array of activities, from relaxing by the water and water sports like kite surfing to exploring nearby colobus monkey sanctuaries and wildlife reserves, making it a popular tropical holiday destination.
- Watamu
Known for its coral gardens and marine life, Watamu is a free-to-enter beach located on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast, south of Malindi. The beach is famous for its white sands, clear waters plus the various marine life within the Watamu Marine National Park. While at the beach, enjoy activities like; snorkeling and diving. It is located near the Arabuko Sokoke Forest and Gede Ruins, offering a unique blend of history and nature on a beach safari.
- Malindi beach
Located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Malindi beach is an incredible destination combining beach relaxation with cultural exploration. The beach is near Malindi Marine National Park, thus giving visitors a chance to explore marine life and enjoy luxury experiences as its known for the golden sands.
- Lamu Island
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu is a port and island located just off the shore of Kenya in the Indian Ocean about 150 miles from Mombasa. The island offers traditional Swahili culture, dhow sailing, and quiet beaches that are perfect for those seeking a more cultural beach safari experience.
- What to do During Your Beach Holiday
Safari and beach combo
While on a beach holiday, you can combine it with other safari destinations, especially wildlife reserves like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or Tsavo, then fly or drive to the coast for relaxation.
Marine safaris
Explore marine national parks like Kisite-Mpunguti and Watamu Marine Park, where you can snorkel, dive, or take glass-bottom boat tours to see coral reefs, dolphins, and turtles.
Cultural Experiences
Visit Swahili towns like Lamu and Mombasa to learn about coastal traditions, architecture, and cuisine.
Adventure Activities
Kitesurfing, deep-sea fishing, dhow sailing, jet skiing, and parasailing are popular in beach safari packages.
Wildlife Spotting Near the Coast
Shimba Hills National Reserve (home to sable antelope and elephants) and Arabuko Sokoke Forest (home to rare bird species and golden-rumped elephant shrew) provide quick safari add-ons near the beach.
- Best time for a beach safari in Kenya
Kenya can be visited all year round for a beach safari, but the best time is during December and March. These months are known for their hotness and thus perfect for beach and diving activities.
In conclusion, beach safaris in Kenya are the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, allowing travelers to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife and then unwind on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
