Kenya is famous for its incredible wildlife, but its magnificent coastline is where more than half of the country’s best hotels are located. Baroque Travel takes a look
Stretching for 480 km along the Indian Ocean on Kenya’s Eastern coast, Mombasa is a haven for holidaymakers, with its unspoilt white sand beaches, spectacular coral reefs and a wide selection of resorts. The tiny island port of Mombasa is the gateway to this coastal playground, a picturesque place with two deep-water harbours. It’s a charming blend of modern and ancient buildings, a delightful combination of African, Arabic and Asian influences with winding narrow streets and its landmark, ancient Fort Jesus, which was the scene of numerous battles over the centuries.
Kenya is best known for its incredible wildlife, but its magnificent coastline is where more than half of the country’s best hotels are located. The rest are found inland, a selection of world-class safari lodges where game viewing is the main attraction. The Mombasa coastline is divided into four distinct areas: to the south one finds peaceful Diani Beach; it’s only accessible by ferry and famous for its beautiful wide white-sand beaches. Across the bridge on the North Coast are Watamu and Malindi, where more beautiful resorts and beaches await. Slightly further north is the Lamu archipelago, with its 10th Century Arab town of Lamu.
Wherever you go on Kenya’s breathtaking coastline, the water is always warm, the sun shines almost every day, and the weather is temperate, thanks to cool breezes. Swimming is safe and all of the resorts offer a wide selection of activities to ensure guests experience a paradise beach holiday.
Three luxury holiday resorts on Mombasa’s coastline:
Almanara Hotel
Located on spectacular Diani Beach, this luxury boutique villa resort is ideally situated, making it the perfect base from which to explore numerous sights such as Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest and the Colobus Conservation area. Accommodation is in a choice of six luxury air-conditioned executive villas, as well as the highlight, Casa Bella, which offers three guestrooms and two suites, all with breathtaking ocean views. Villas all offer a private butler service and personal chef and the hotel features a central swimming pool and Jacuzzi. There is an excellent restaurant Sails Beach Bar & Restaurant, and the resort also offers a plane for private air charters.
Medina Palms
Situated in the north of Mombasa on breathtaking Watamu Beach, in an area that is part of the magnificent Watamu Marine Park, this lovely establishment offers a choice of accommodation in suites or luxury villas. The resort features an excellent spa and fitness center as well as numerous dining options. Guests can laze by the beautiful swimming pool or enjoy a selection of water sports in the sea. Sightseeing trips are organized to explore this area’s historic sites and breathtaking natural beauty.
Swahili Beach
Located on Diani Beach, this plush resort boasts its own private stretch of beach where guests enjoy a wide selection of watersports. Accommodation is in luxurious rooms and suites, all offering flat screen satellite TV, en suite bathroom and every modern facility. The resort offers numerous activities including cycling, golf and snorkeling as well as excursions to the Colobus Conservation Area 6km away. Trips are also arranged to the spectacular Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest nearby.
