Coast Wanted

For idyllic, white-sand beaches, extraordinary wildlife-crammed national parks and the trip of a lifetime, look no further than the tawny savannahs and turquoise waters of Kenya

A visit to Kenya will open your eyes to some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes – from the wildlife-packed savannahs of the Masai Mara National Reserve, to the dramatic vistas dominated by the peak of Africa’s second-highest mountain, Mount Kenya. Beyond the Big Five and incredible views, there’s 500km of dazzling Indian Ocean coastline to explore, meaning if you’re travelling for a full-on beach break, or a twin-centre adventure, you’ll find yourself in exactly the right place.

Just 45 minutes from Moi international airport in Mombasa you’ll find the popular beach resorts of Nyali and Shanzu, the perfect places to check in to a hotel and relax on a lounger with cool sea views. For wide, picture-perfect white-sand beaches, why not try Diani beach? Its handy location close to Ukunda airstrip makes it a perfect partner for a safari and beach break in one.

Further along the unspoiled coast you’ll discover the secluded beaches of Galu and Kinondo, Msambweni and Funzi Island. Here, turquoise ocean breaks on to remote stretches of soft sand, and pretty boutique guesthouses make the ideal place to stay after a busy day of relaxing and discovering the shore’s villages.

Just a two-hour drive north of Mombasa you can explore Malindi, a small town that sits in the middle of the idyllic beaches on the north coast. Then 30 minutes further south is the sleepy village of Watamu, which boasts wide, white beaches and villa-style accommodation. A trip here can also be twinned with a visit to the Marine National Park, home to over 600 species of sea life and the inspiring Watamu turtle rehabilitation centre.

Prefer an active break? Trade winds along the coast make Kenya a great place to hone your kite-surfing skills, while the country’s numerous safari parks are only a short air transfer away. With so much variety, it’s whatever type of holiday you want it to be.