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Kenya, a captivating East African destination, boasts a stunning coastline along the Indian Ocean. The beaches in Kenya stretch over 600 kilometres and are known for their pristine white sands, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters. Iconic spots like Diani and Watamu beaches offer a blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for snorkelling and kite surfing. On some of the secluded beaches in Kenya, tourists can experience a serene escape steeped in Swahili culture. Kenya’s coastal charm makes it a tropical paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
10 Must-Explore Beaches In Kenya
The following are the top ten beaches in Kenya that are worth exploring on your next trip there.
1. Diani Beach
Photo: Michal Vogt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Diani Beach is known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Kenya. It is located near the city of Mombasa and is spread over 16 kilometres. If you are looking for a lively beach where a lot of water activities are offered, then this beach is for you. Every year, it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists who try out activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, scuba diving, and kitesurfing. On its northern tip, a famous sixteenth-century mosque is located, known as Kongo Mosque. To reach Diani Beach, one of the cleanest beaches in Kenya, you have to go down a road in Mombasa City.
Location: Kwale, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 4 kilometres
2. Nyali Beach
Photo: FredD / Wikimedia Commons
If you want to experience a serene environment and be near your accommodation, then this beach is for you. The Nyali beach has cinema halls, supermarkets, residential areas, and shopping malls near it, which makes it a convenient choice for tourists. Here you will find white sand and a clear water body where you can choose to do various activities. In the nearby area, there is a village famous for housing the largest crocodile farm in the African continent.
Location: Mombasa County, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 15 kilometres
3. Shela Beach
Photo: Bingar1234 / Wikimedia Commons
Shela Beach lies on the southeast side of Lamu Island and is a perfect place for enjoying a laid-back day with your family and friends. There are a lot of activities that you can do here; some of them are jogging, snorkelling, sailing, and fishing. However, sometimes there are strong currents present in the water, so it is advised to ask a local guide before entering the water. This beach is known for offering tranquillity and a beautiful view of the surrounding area, which includes turquoise-coloured water.
Location: Lamu, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 4 kilometres
4. Watamu Beach
Photo: Jenny Kellett / Wikimedia Commons
Watamu Beach is situated on the north side of Mombasa City and is spread over an area of seven kilometres. The beach got its name from being situated in Watamu town and is located near Malindi town. It is known for being pristine and is surrounded by crystal-clear water alongside vibrant coral reefs. Watamu Beach is also famously known as Turtle Beach. The beach is open to access 24*7 and provides a platform for trying out activities such as surfing, snorkelling, long walks, and sunbathing.
Location: Watamu Town, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 20 kilometres
5. Tiwi Beach
Photo: Spurk1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tiwi Beach is less crowded than other popular beaches in Kenya, making it an ideal spot for people looking for a more quiet place with a mesmerising view. Near this beach, there are some good accommodation options and eateries where you will find fresh food. On the beach, you can rent a beach chair and umbrella and enjoy a relaxing day. However, if you want to explore activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling, then you can try those out here, too. You will be assigned a trained professional under whose guidance you will witness the rich marine life present in the ocean.
Location: Kwale County, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 13 kilometres
6. Kilifi Beach
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Kilifi Beach is popular among adventure enthusiasts and is known to be one of the finest beaches in Kenya. It got its name from the town it is situated in, which has the same name. Near this beach, you will find many affordable and luxurious accommodations as well as good places to eat. The beach lies on the northeast side of Mombasa and is spread over an area of several kilometres. Here basic facilities are provided, such as bathrooms and beach chairs, along with umbrellas, which are rented based on hours. A few of the activities that you can do here are playing volleyball, football, and kayaking.
Location: Kilifi, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 53 kilometres
7. Bamburi Beach
Photo: Kayhan ERTUGRUL / Wikimedia Commons
Bamburi Beach is among the ideal destinations to unwind in Kenya. It is spread over an area of three kilometres and is famous among tourists for its beautiful surroundings and tranquillity. The beach lies on the northern side of Mombasa City and stays open 24*7 for the locals and tourists. If you love watching mesmerising sunsets and warm white sand, then this place is perfect for you. Here, you can take a long walk or try out scuba diving, as the water surrounding the beach stays calm and clear. There are also a few nightclubs and restaurants near this beach worth exploring.
Location: Mombasa County, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 5 kilometres
8. Galu Kinondo Beach
Photo: Nchakure / Wikimedia Commons
Galu Kinondo Beach is known to be a paradise for snorkelers and divers because it is surrounded by crystal-clear water and rich marine life. This beach is located near the famous Diani Beach and is more secluded. If you are an adventure seeker, then there are numerous water-based activities that you can do here; a few of them are windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, and kiteboarding. Once you are on the beach, if you are interested in local communities and indigenous people, then here you can interact with them. People from Swahili and Digo communities live around this area.
Location: Kwale County, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 8 kilometres
9. Malindi Beach
Photo: Xiaojun Deng / Wikimedia Commons
Malindi Beach is known as the site where Vasco da Gama landed and hence carries historical significance. This beautiful beach has a delightful blend of natural beauty and history. Around the beach, you will find plenty of accommodation options that will make your coastal experience here memorable. The beach is also famously known as Buntwani or Golden Beach. Malindi Beach is spread over seven kilometres and has amenities like beachside chairs, etc. A few of the activities that you can do here are sailing, snorkelling, and deep-sea fishing. While visiting the beach, don’t forget to visit the Vasco da Gama pillar.
Location: Kilifi County, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 5 kilometres
10. Shanzu Beach
Photo: Kafutul / Wikimedia Commons
Shanzu Beach is among the most picturesque beaches in Kenya and is widely renowned for its beach parties and nightlife. Here, you can explore several water-based activities such as jet skiing, scuba diving, and swimming. The beach has numerous restaurants in the nearby area where you can go to grab a quick bite or lunch and dinner. Basic amenities such as restrooms and chairs are available at the beach. On Shanzu Beach, you can play sports like football and volleyball with your friends during the day and enjoy the vibrant parties around the night. If you like meeting new people and an energetic atmosphere, then this place is for you.
Location: Mombasa County, Kenya
Distance From Nearest Airport: 23 kilometres
Beaches in Kenya are a hidden tropical paradise that has stunning natural beauty and offers endless adventure activities. Popular spots like Nyali and Watamu Beaches promise unforgettable experiences. Here, you can relax on soft white sands, dive into crystal-clear waters, and explore vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling and diving. To explore Kenya’s breathtaking coastline, book your trip with TripXL and create lasting memories at this enchanting destination.
Cover Photo: CT Cooper / Wikimedia Commons
