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Are you an international tourist looking for the best beaches in Kenya?

Perhaps a romantic beach where you can drink fine wine while strolling hand in hand with your loved one?

Or a beach safari where the sky transforms into a warm orange, pink, and purple palette?

This guide tells you about the hidden gems of Kenya’s beaches and why you should consider going there. The guide also lists several activities tourists visiting these areas can do to make their trip memorable.

Best Beaches in Kenya

Kenyan beaches are among the few top-rated beaches worldwide. They have been described as an exotic escape to paradise because they are engulfed in the Azure waters of the Indian Ocean and vibrant cities such as Diani and Mombasa. 

It is important to note that beach holidays in Kenya can also be done in non-coastal regions such as Turkana and Kisumu. In Turkana, we have Eliye Springs Beach.

1. Eliye Springs Beach {Best for Adventure Travellors}

Contrary to popular belief, not all Kenya’s best beaches are on the coast. In fact, we can authoritatively rank Eliye Springs Beach as the best in Africa. 

Why do we say so?

For starters, this kenyan beach is found in Lake Turkana. The lake is the world’s largest permanent desert lake and stretches over 250km. The beach is remotely located in rural Kenya, so it is not crowded. 

In fact, you might think you are on a private Island. Also, unlike coastal beaches in Kenya affected by seaweeds and debris, Eliye Springs is a clean beach not affected by pollution. 

The beach is white as snow, with some sections having a brown and black color. The black color is a result of lava that once covered the area.

Things to do at Eliye Springs Beach Turkana

1. Go fishing in Lake Turkana- The lake is home to various fish species such as Nile Perch, Tilapia, Catfish, African lungfish, Cichlids, Lake Turkana mud minnow, and Barbus.
2. Relax at the beach- Sunbath, swim, and soak up the sun in the tranquil atmosphere of the beach.
3. Visit nearby national parks- This Kenya beach is near several national parks, such as Sibiloi National Park and the Central Island National Parks, home to the largest ancient crocodile population in the world.
4. Try local cuisine – Try several fish species and traditional Turkana food, including milk and meat.
5. Attend the Turkana cultural festival- The festival is known as Tobong’u Lore and celebrates the Culture of several indigenous communities.

Eliye Springs Beach should be one of the places to visit in Kenya if you are looking for a beach and safari experience.

2. Diani Beach {Best For A Romantic Holiday}

Diani Beach is another good place to go as part of your safari and beach holidays in Kenya. The beach is found on the Southern coast of Kenya and is famous for its luxurious resorts, white sands, and beach villas.

It is also a popular tourist destination for families, solo travelers, and honeymooners. 

There are many things to do in Diani Beach. One of them is to experience the great Swahili Culture by visiting nearby villages and tourist attraction sites in the area. 

Diani Beach comprises several beaches, and one of them is Galu Kinondo Beach. This is the best beach for engaging in Watersports and sunbathing. Visit popular beach bars such as Ali Barbour’s Cave and the Nomad Beach Bar for well-cooked seafood.

Things to do in Diani Beach

One of the things to do in Diani Beach is to discover hidden gems in the area, and the best way to do this is with the help of a local. Our local guide will help you explore the streets of Ukunda and marvel at the traditional architecture in the streets of Tiwi.

 Other things to do in Diani Beach are:

1. Sailing to Wasini Island on a Traditional Dhow Boat: The best way to access the Island is via a traditional Dhow boat. The first stop will be Kisite Mpunguti, perfect for dolphin spotting and snorkeling. Later you can go to Wasini Island for a beach lunch and drinks.
2. Take a Canoe Ride on the Kongo River: The Kongo River separates Diani Beach and TIWI Beach. Canoe rides on the river are best for sunset chases, nature lovers, and bird watchers.
3. Go to Tiwi Beach: Tiwi Beach is home to a hidden gem, the Africa Pool. Africa Pool is a natural pool that resembles the map of Africa. It is only visible during low tide and is a perfect swimming spot.
4. Visit Shimoni Caves: Shimoni caves are limestone caves used to hold captured enslaved people before they were transported to Zanzibar to work in the clove plantation.
5. Visit Magical Funzi Island: Magical Funzi Island is a hidden gem in Kenya. It is less explored than other tourist destinations but is a great place to explore the mangroves, traditional villages, and crocodile sites along the Ramisi River.

3.Nyali Beach {Best For Family Travel}

Nyali Beach is one of the best beaches in Mombasa to visit with your family. This is because it is less crowded when compared to other beaches in the area. The beach is ideal for relaxing, long walks, sunbathing, and adventure.

Things to do at Nyali 

One of the fun things to do at Nyali is to have a snorkeling experience at the Mombasa Marine Park. The Crystal Clear Waters of the Indian Ocean give a spectacular view of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

The marine life includes a colorful array of tropical fish, including silver toner and orange clownfish. 

Other things to do at Nyali include:

1. Visit Mamba Crocodile Farm: It is the largest crocodile farm in Kenya. Here, you will see tiny crocodile babies and how crocodile handbags are made for luxury brands.
2. Go on a Local Safari: The beach is close to several tourist attraction sites, such as Mombasa Old Town, Fort Jesus Museum, and the Mombasa Marine National Park.
3. Sunbathing and Water Sports: Tourists on a Kenya safari in Nyali can participate in beach sports such as soccer, rugby, and volleyball. The beach also has several water sports, such as jet skiing, snorkeling, and parasailing.
4. Nyali Nightlife: Tourists in ther area can visit famous nightclubs to enjoy Nyali’s nightlife. 

4. Bamburi Beach {Best For Interacting With Locals}

Bamburi Beach is a public beach with calm waters and fine soft white sand. The Beach is a good place to go if you want to interact with locals because it is a public beach.

The beach is also ideal for sand seekers and sun lovers. Besides the fine sand, the beach is known for its high-end resorts and Wild nightlife. 

Some of the things to do at Bamburi Beach are:

1. Watersports: The beach offers various water sports such as sea kayaking, jet skiing, waterskiing, snorkeling, and sailing. High-end resorts have their own water sports center with certified dive courses.
2. Baobab Adventure: The baobab adventure is a complex of nature trails, game farms, and wildlife sanctuaries. It is part of the Nguuni Wildlife Sanctuary, 5 km inland from the Baobab farm. The farm has recently been opened to the public, qualifying it as one of the hidden places to visit in Kenya. 

The farm includes an Ostrich, an eland, and an Oryx farm. Tourists can have sundowner drinks and BBQ dinner at the sanctuary during their adventure. 

5. Lamu Island Beaches {Best For a Cultural Experience}

Most tourists do not know this, but Lamu Island has several Islands suitable for adventure and cultural travel. Lamu Island is a port city located off the shore of Kenya’s Indian Ocean and has more than 65 islands that form the Lamu archipelago. 

One unique thing about Lamu Island is that it is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. The island is also a UNESCO World Heritage recognized site. 

Some famous beaches in Lamu are:

• Shela Beach: The most popular because of its white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and numerous activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling.

• Kizingo Beach: It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lamu. It has spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and a calm atmosphere that creates a magical effect.

• Kiwayu Beach: The beach is in a remote and secluded area within the Lamu archipelago and is ideal for exploring coral reefs and scuba diving.
• Manda Toto Beach: This is a small and secluded beach found on the northern coast of Lamu. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.

The Great Lamu Festival 

 Lamu Island has several festivals that make it a great cultural safari destination. 

These cultural festivals are:

1. Lamu Yoga Festival: This annual event takes place in the month of March. The yoga festival celebrates yoga, mindfulness, and wellness. Participants can engage in classes, wellness activities, and workshops.
2. Lamu Food Festival: The Lamu food festival takes place in July and celebrates local cuisine. The festival includes cooking classes, cultural performances, and food tasting.
3. Maulid Festival: Mawlid festival is a religious festival that celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The festival is celebrated within the Muslim community and involves religious sermons, procession and prayer. 
4. Lamu Cultural Festival: The Lamu cultural festival is held every November to celebrate Lamu’s culture, music, tradition, and way of life.
5. Lamu Painter’s Festival: Lamu’s Painter’s Festival takes place in August and celebrates art and creativity through exhibitions, workshops and cultural performances.

6. Bofa Beach – Kilifi {Best for Experienced Divers}

Bofa Beach is found in Kilifi and is one of the best beaches for experienced divers because of the numerous diving sites in the area. Scuba diving activities are organized by local organizations such as Aqua Ventures.

One of the famous diving spots is Vuma Caves on Kilifi Creek. The cave is 20 m deep and has huge groupers and giant trevallies. 

One advantage of visiting Bofa Beach is that it is not well known by local tourists. As a result, the beach is less crowded and very quiet. 

Things to Do at Bofa Beach

1. Enjoy Local Cuisine: The area has numerous restaurants offering local cuisine. Some of these restaurants include the Terrace, Vegan Basket, and Mnarani Club and Spa.
2. Visit Kuruwitu Conservancy: This is a multiple-use marine conservation site that the local community use to conserve their environment. The main project is the Kuruwitu Turtles Alive Project which saves turtles. Other activities offered include dhow rides, snorkelling, and fishing.
3. Visit Rabai Museum: The museum was set up to remember early missionaries who came to the region to spread Christianity. The mission was set up by Ludwig Krapf more than 150 years ago.
4. Take a Boat Ride to Mida Creek: Mida Creek is an ecologically diverse tidal inlet near Kilifi. It is home to mangrove forests, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The best way to visit the area is by using a glass-bottomed boat. 

7. Chui Beach – Malindi {Best For Attractions}

Chui Beach is a secluded and peaceful beach located in Malindi. The beach is best for tourists looking to relax while at the same time having access to numerous tourist sites.

The beach is strategically located because of the numerous tourist attraction sites in the area, such as the Malindi Museum and the Vasco da Gama Pillar.

Chui Beach is also a good place to visit if traveling on a budget. This is because it has affordable resorts nearby, such as Zanzibar Magic Boutique and Pongwe Lodge.

Read our Kenya safari cost guide to know more about how much a luxury travel safari can cost. Be advised that the prices might change depending on the season. If it is a peak season, the prices will be higher.

Things To Do At Chui Beach Malindi

Chui Beach offers several water sports activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. When fishing, ensure you wear safety clothing and the boat is not overloaded. Other things to do at Chui Beach in Malindi are:

1. Visit Malindi Marine Park: The park is known as the Coral Garden. Visitors swim with the zebra fish and windsurf in a traditional dhow boat. It is also a good pplace to see dolphins, corals, and sea turtles.
2. Nature Walks Around The Beach: Nature walks around the beach make seeing wildlife such as monkeys, baboons, and different bird species possible. The beach is also home to mangrove forests.
3. Visit Gedi Ruins: When you are done sunbathing, you can go to Gedi Ruins, a historical archeological site near the Indian Ocean in Malindi. No one knows why the town was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th century.

8. Shanzu Beach {Most Popular in Mombasa}

Shanzu Beach is the most popular in Mombasa because it is only 10 kilometers from the Central Business District. The Beach is also popular with local tourists, romantic couples, and silver-haired holidaymakers.

 The beach has crystalline turquoise waters with powdery white sand. It is important to note that the beach is usually crowded because it is only 10 kilometers away from Mombasa town.

Shanzu Beach has several luxury and affordable hotels, such as the Serena Beach Resort and PrideInn Paradise Resort and Spa. 

Things to Do At Shanzu Beach 

1. Visit Fort Jesus: The Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1593 – 1596. The Portuguese used the Fort to defend themselves against the locals and attacks from Oman.
2. Engage in watersport activities: Tourists on a Safari to the coast can enjoy various water sports activities such as scuba diving, windsurfing, swimming, and skiing.
3. Learn the Local Culture: A good way to learn the local culture is to visit nearby villages such as Old Town. Tourists should also visit the local market to get Swahili spices.
4. Go to Haller Park: Haller Park was initially an abandoned quarry that was rehabilitated into an ecological paradise that hosts various plant and animal species such as Elands, Oryx, bushpigs, dung beetles, and birds.

Shanzu Beach can be accessed during all months of the year. However, visiting during the dry season is better because the Indian Ocean is calmer. You can learn more about the best time to visit Kenya by reading the highlighted guide.

 9. Chale Island {Best for Royal Guests}

Chale Island is the only private island in Kenya. It is best for royal guests or tourists looking to explore the coast while staying hidden from the public.

If traveling from Nairobi, the best way to get to Chale Island is via a 3hours flight to Ukunda and a 30-minute boat ride to the island.

Things To Do At Chale Island

 Some of the things to do at Chale Island are:

1. Relax at The Spa: The Island has an in-house Spa where tourists on a safari can relax and rejuvenate with a massage.
2. Have a Sundowner: You can have a sundowner at the Mkoko Bar Deck overlooking the imposing ocean. Here you can chill with a drink and marvel at the golden rays that bounce from the ocean.
3. Snorkeling: Visitors can swim around the island to see stunning marine life, coral reefs, and tropical fish such as rays, moray eels, and turtles.
4. Scuba Diving: This activity is ideal for both experienced and beginner divers. This is because the beach has an instructor to guide beginners on how to make their first jump.
5. Kayaking: This is a good way to enjoy the ocean and feel the salty sea air on your skin. Kayaking is best done during the dry season because the ocean is calmer.

Tourists on the Island can also see and appreciate local conservation efforts by visiting the Marine and Colobus conservation center.

10. Galu Kinondo Beach {Best Laid Back Beach}

The Galu Kinondo beach is one of the best laid-back beaches in Kenya because of its remote location and Isloted atmosphere..

The beach is a continuation of Diani Beach and is found in the communities of Konondo and Galu. Though the beach is well preserved, its location means there are very few amenities compared to Ukunda.

You can literally walk for miles without seeing any other tourists except locals.

Things To Do At Galu Kinondo

1. Watersports: The beach is ideal for engaging in various watersports such as scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kitesurfing. 
2. Eat Local Cuisine: We liked the local cuisine that we ate. The beach has several hotels where you can eat, such as Le Cafe Diani, sails Beach Bar & Restaurant, and Blue Marlin Restaurant, which specializes in seafood such as tuna and shrimp.
3. Visit Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest: The forest has ancient trees, some as old as more than 1000 years old. It consists of more than 10 separate forests ranging from 30 -300ha. The forest belongs to the Kaya people, who are members of the broader Mijikenda ethnic group.

In conclusion, Kenyan beaches are among the best in the world. Tourists can book luxury beach holidays in Kenya and have fun.  Though Kenya has beautiful beaches, tourists need to know what suits them best.

For example, if you are looking for a cultural coastal experience, Lamu beaches would be the best place to stay. This is because Lamu hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year. 

If you are looking for a luxury coastal holiday for your honeymoon, we recommend Diani Beach. The beach has several high-end resorts with private beach areas. Get in touch with us to plan your beach holidays in Kenya.