If you’re looking for an unforgettable African beach holiday, the spectacular Kenyan coastline is where you should be heading!
Kenya’s breathtaking coastline stretches for 480 km and offers everything that makes a paradise holiday: unspoilt white sandy beaches, a spectacular coral reef, underwater life and some of the most luxurious resorts on the continent.
Mombasa is the gateway to this coastal paradise, a picturesque island port that is a mystical mix of ancient and modern, a delightful combination of African, Arabic and Asian influences that offers two deep water harbors. The town itself has narrow winding streets and a UNESCO World Heritage site of an old fort built in the 1500s called, Fort Jesus.
The Kenyan coast has become one of the greatest holiday playgrounds in Africa, home to more than half of Kenya’s world-class hotels. There are four distinct areas along the coastline: to the south is peaceful Diani Beach that is only accessible by ferry and known for its wide beaches. Across the bridge is the North Coast, home to Watamu and Malindi, where more beautiful beaches await. Then slightly further north is the Lamu archipelago, with its 10th Century Arab town of Lamu.
Wherever you go on the coastline, the water is always warm, the sun shines almost every day, and the heat is usually tempered by cool breezes – tropical weather at its best. Swimming is safe and the resorts offer numerous facilities and activities to ensure a paradise beach getaway.
Here are some of our favourite holiday destinations:
Medina Palms
This brand new luxury resort is located on Watamu beach, part of the Watamu Marine Park, which is also considered one of the top 10 beaches in the world. Accommodation is in a choice of sumptuous suites and villas and facilities include a state-of-the-art spa, fitness center, an excellent bar and superb dining opportunities. When you’re not lazing by the stunning pool, you can enjoy a variety of excellent water sports and magical excursions to see the area’s historic sites and spectacular natural beauty.
Swahili Beach
Located on Diani Beach, this stunning luxury hotel offers a private beach area and a choice of exciting water sports as well as plush accommodation with every facility, including flat screen satellite TV. Other activities include golf, snorkeling, bicycle riding and visits to Colobus Conservation 6km away and the spectacular Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest. Dining is excellent here, and guests enjoy superlative service.
Almanara Beach Hotel
Also located on spectacular Diani Beach, this luxury boutique villa resort is located close to numerous sights and activities including Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest and the stunning Colobus Conservation area. Accommodation is in a choice of six luxury air-conditioned executive villas, as well as the stunning Casa Bella, which offers 3 rooms and two suites, all with breathtaking ocean views. Villas all offer a private butler service and personal chef and the hotel offers a central pool and Jacuzzi. There is an excellent restaurant on site, called Sails Beach Bar & Restaurant, and the resort also offers a plane for private air charters.