Beyond Diani: Five Kenyan Coast Destinations Worth the Trip
Diani is magnificent, but Watamu, Kilifi, Lamu, Tiwi and Zanzibar each offer something Diani does not.
Diani gets the headlines and deserves them. It is not, however, the whole coast.
Watamu
Watamu sits inside a marine national park, which means reef protection, exceptional snorkelling and diving, and the powdery white sand of Turtle Bay. It is quieter than Diani with an equally good restaurant scene.
Kilifi
The old town on the creek is the real charm here, with a ruined Mnarani mosque, a dhow building yard and the best kayaking on the Kenyan coast. Ideal for travellers who want culture with their beach.
Lamu
A UNESCO World Heritage site where there are no cars at all - only donkeys, dhows and narrow Swahili alleys. Getting there means a short flight from Wilson Airport or Mombasa, and the pace of life is roughly half that of anywhere else.
Tiwi and Galu
Just south of Diani, these are the quiet neighbours: fewer resorts, fewer beach boys, the same reef and a much more private feel.
Zanzibar
Technically Tanzania, but so close that it is a natural extension of any Kenyan coast trip. Stone Town for history and spice, the north and east coasts for beaches, and a short direct flight from Nairobi.
How to choose
- Best reef and diving: Watamu
- Best all round beach with the most to do: Diani
- Most cultural: Lamu
- Quietest: Tiwi and Galu
- Best combination of history and beach: Zanzibar
Every one of these is available as a package with flights, transfers and beachfront accommodation arranged. Tell us which one appeals and we will build it around your dates.