The Kenyan coast boasts some of Africa’s most interesting and historically important coastlines, being at the same time fully equipped with beautiful beaches where one can relax and have a lot of fun. In general, the best beaches of Kenya are very safe, not too deep or wavy, and without any dangerous or poisonous fish that might detract from such a unique landscape.
In this article, we take you through some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Kenya, many of which always feature at the top in almost every list of the best in Africa.
When to Visit the Beaches in Kenya
The Indian Ocean in Kenya is generally humid and hot throughout the year, while the annual daytime temperatures of Mombasa range between 27 and 31°C. This means that Kenya’s beaches are open all year, although we recommend avoiding the wettest months, which run from mid-March to late May.
The Most Beautiful Sandy Beaches in Kenya
1. Diani Beach
This picturesque beach is located 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Mombasa and is a popular post-safari destination. This Kenya’s white sandy beach features blue water and palm trees surrounded by plenty of beachfront resorts to choose from.
Diani Beach consistently ranks among the top ten beaches in Africa, and it would be a shame not to visit if you are in Kenya.
Accommodation: Kinondo Kwetu, The Sands At Nomad, Swahili Beach, Baobab Beach Resort & Spa & Leopard Beach Resort and Spa
2. Galu Beach
Another remarkable beach south of Mombasa, this is a place loved both by those who just love to swim and sunbather as well as those who prefer more active beach holidays. The place, adored by snorkelers, has a magnificent submarine landscape featuring clear water.
Accommodation: Lantana Galu Beach Resort
3. Chale Island
Chale Island is yet another excellent destination along the Kenyan Coast. This paradisiac spot hosts Chale Island Resort, the island’s only resort with stunning sea views and a variety of fun activities. It is an excellent spot for visitors seeking island tranquility.
Accommodation: The Sands at Chale Island
4. Tiwi Beach
At Tiwi Beach, sandbars extend out towards the reef nearby in which at low tide it’s possible to get within touching distance. There aren’t any big bars or restaurants here, except Amani Tiwi Beach Resort. Tourists, however, can buy fresh seafood dishes along with drinks around a tiny beach café.
Accommodation: Amani Tiwi Lodge
5. Funzi Beach
Less known compared to Diani Beach, Funzi Beach is one of the exquisite beaches on Kenya’s Funzi Island, accessible by plane or boat only. This is the perfect place to retreat to for honeymooners and romantics who seek solitude unbothered.
Accommodation: Funzi Keys Lodge
6. Watamu Beach
Watamu Beach, also called Turtle Bay, is a beach of Indian Ocean sand situated a few kilometers south of Malindi; it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Kenya. It is a frequent destination for those drawn to the area’s crystal-clear waters and coral reefs full of color and life. It has white sand and palm trees for total relaxation, and you may see green and hawksbill sea turtles breeding on the sand closest to the reef.
Accommodation: Hemingways Watamu & Turtle Bay Beach Resort
7. Lamu Island
Lamu Island is a small island off the coast of Kenya that has several beautiful beaches, including Shela Beach and Kipungani Beach. Kipungani Beach is very quiet because just a few tourists visit this beautiful virgin beach. Shela Beach is much more famous compared to Kipungani but also far more natural and unspoiled.
Accommodation: Kipungani Explorer & Peponi Hotel
8. Nyali Beach
Nyali Beach: one of the prettiest beaches in Mombasa, it has a stretch of white sand and is an incredibly tranquil beach. This beach never gets crowded and its surroundings make for several different beach resorts catering to a range of different budgets, making this a perfect beach holiday spot.
Accommodation: Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Nyali Sun Africa Beach Hotel & Spa, Voyager Beach Resort & Prideinn Hotel Mombasa.
9. Shanzu Beach
Shanzu Beach is located just off the Mombasa-Malindi Highway and offers a mix of high-end hotels, resorts, and affordable guesthouses, making it a good spot if you’re on a budget with plenty of places to eat every day.
Accommodation: Serena Beach Resort & Spa
10. Bamburi Beach
Bamburi Beach is probably one of the nicest beach retreats on Kenya’s northern coast near Mombasa, with its fine, soft sand and calm seas. It is great for sunbathing, relaxation on the beach, and sunset viewing. Enjoy sports like camel rides or water sports, including diving and snorkeling. This beach offers an unforgettable experience, as there is a coral reef just offshore.
Accommodation: Bamburi Beach Hotel,
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