Diani Beach – As one of the popular beach destinations in Africa, Diani Beach is a dream beach destinations and a must visit while on a holiday in Kenya. If you are looking for an exotic and underexplored beach destination, then Diani Beach should be at the top of your bucket list.
A safari to Kenya is never complete without a visit to the beautiful coastal areas, Diani beach is a friendly beach destination perfect for all kinds of travelers from solo travelers to family travelers with lots of fun activities for everyone. This is why the beach has been voted as the best beach in Africa.
Diani Beach has about 17 kilometers of pristine white sand, cerulean water and majestic palm trees hugging the shores of warm Indian Ocean. There are beautiful coral reefs to explore and the sand bars which make the beach perfect for swimming and many other water spots.
Top Places To Visit and Things To Do At Diani Beach
There are several entertaining activities you can indulge in during your Diani Beach Holiday, these include
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Have a mini safari
Have a mini safari to the nearby Shimba Hills National Park where you can spot several wildlife species including elephants, giraffes, cape buffaloes, the unusual Roan and Sable antelopes (only found in Shimba Hills National Park). In the nearby forest, you will see the black and white colobus monkeys, serval cats, red duikers and suni antelopes.
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Snorkeling and diving in the stunning corals
Diani beach is a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving experiences done in Wasini Island, the island is only is only accessed by boat and the trip starts from Shimoni Town – an hour’s drive from Diani Beach.
The beautiful – old times dhows are used to get to the island providing an adventure of its own, lookout for dolphins which normally come out of water and make a good show, most especially when the tides are not high. Each trip includes two snorkeling and diving sessions, you do not need to be a pro at swimming to snorkel as there are experienced guides to make sure you see the most beautiful corals while hanging onto a floatie.
The climate of this trip is a hearty Swahili lunch served from a floating restaurant, later visitors have a choice of relaxing in a scenic swimming pool overlooking the sea or indulging in cultural delights delving into an authentic East Africa Experience by visiting a local village.
- Visit the Chale Island
The beautiful Chale Island is another amazing destination to explore during your holiday to Diani Beach, the island is only accessed by boat or on foot. The luxurious and exquisite Sands at Chale Island Resort is a world class beach hotel, competing only with the best hotel in the world offers a luxurious beach stay. The island has endless white sand beaches, a laid back atmosphere and arguably one of the calmest turquoise ocean in the world, colors and a variety of the local sea life that is beyond belief.
Chale Island is a home to an ancient forest or Kaya which is a habitat for many primates.
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Cultural adventures
For visitors interested in local culture and history, Funzi Island is a perfect beach destination to visit. Here you will meet locals famous for their traditional fishing and sailing skills, experience the ancient African traditions blended with influences of Persia and Indians including several reminders of the slave trade that was operated in these areas.
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Have a blissful relaxed lifestyle
During your Diani Holiday, you will experience the beachside glamour, have a taste of Dawa Tea – Kenya’s signature cocktail and enjoy great sea food and fun music. While chilling at beach, lookout for the camels trotting locals and catch a ride.
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Restaurants offering visitors a culinary Odyssey
There is a collection of restaurants and bars to visit on Diani Beach, offering the finest Swahili and international Cuisines with magnificent views. From sundowners to beach parties that last all night long, you will be entertained or rest at one of the top-rated Kenyan beaches.
For sea food lovers and visitors craving for an eclectic mix of local delicacies will be delighted with the menus at Sands at Nomad, Ali Barbour’s Cave restaurant, Salis Beach Bar and Resturant, Havana Cool Bar among others.
Everything you need to know about Diani Beach
Taking a stroll on the white sands of Diani Beach will leave you feeling as if you live in an alternate universe though you are not far from any convenience or modernity necessary that you may desire.
There are several shopping centres with quaint coffee shops and stall selling local artefacts which you can buy as souvenirs, local people display their wares on the beach including beaded jewellery, sarongs among others. Sales for these pieces make a valuable contribution to the local economy.
Unique Accommodation options along the beach
Diani Beach has a wide of luxury hotels and beach resorts situated along the beach, these include
- Swahili Beach Resort
- Leopard Beach Resort and Spa
- Sands at Chale
- The Baobab Beach Resort
Budget accommodation in Diani Beach
- Diani Backpackers
- Diani wonder apartments
- Diani Hostel among others
