Diani Beach
Diani Beach: Top Reasons To Visit Kenya’s Prime Travel Destination : Diani Beach is one of the popular beach destinations in Africa and a dream destination for many visitors on a holiday to Kenya, if you are looking for a different, exotic and underexplored beach destination then Diani Beach in should be at the top of your list.
A safari to Kenya can never be complete without visiting the coastal areas of Kenya, whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with your family. Diani Beach is a friendly destination for all kinds of travelers with fun activities for everyone, this is why the beach has been voted as the best beach in Africa.
Warm Indian Ocean Breeze
Diani Beach has about 17 kilometers of pristine white sand, cerulean water and waving palm trees which hugs the shores of warm Indian Ocean. There are coral reefs to explore and the sand bars which make the beach perfect for swimming and many other water spots.
Also, there are exquisite islands nearby which are worth exploring.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO AT DIANI BEACH
During your holiday at Diani Beach there are many activities you can do which will make your experience unique and mind – blowing and these include
- Have a mini safari
You can have a mini safari to the nearby Shimba Hills National Park where you can spot many animals including elephants, giraffes, cape buffaloes, the unsual Roan and Sable antelopes (which is only found at Shimba) as the graze in the rolling grasslands. In the nearby forest, you will see black and white colobus monkeys, serval cats, red duiker and suni antelopes.
- Snorkeling and diving in the stunning corals
Diani beach is a great destination for snorkeling and diving experiences which are done in Wasini Island, the island is accessed by boat and the trip start from Shimoni town – an hour’s drive from Diani Beach.
The beautiful dhows are used to get to the island providing an adventure of its own, lookout for dolphins which come out of the 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 know how to swim to snorkel. There are experienced guides who will make sure you see the most beautiful corals while hanging onto a floatie.
The high of the trip is a hearty Swahili lunch served from a floating restaurant, afterwards visitors have a choice of relaxing in a scenic 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 Chale Island is another best destination to explore during your holiday to Diani Beach, the island is only accessed boat or on food. The island has the exquisite Sands at Chale Island Resort which is a luxurious sanctuary competing with some of the best hotels in the world, the island has endless white – sand beaches, a laid back atmosphere and arguably one of the most calm 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.
- Cultural adventures
For travelers interested in local culture and history, Diani Beach is a perfect destination to visit. For cultural experiences you will visit the Funzi Island where you will meet local famous for their traditional fishing and sailing skills, at the island you will experience the ancient African traditions blended with influences of Persia and Indians including reminders of the slave trade that was operated in these areas.
- Have a blissful relaxed lifestyle
During your holiday, you will experience the beachside glamour, take a taste of Dawa – Kenya’s signature cocktail, and enjoy great food and fun music. While chilling at the beach, lookout for the camel trotting locals and catch a ride.
Restaurants offering visitors a culinary Odyssey
After exploring Diani Beach, there is a collection of restaurants and bar offering the finest Swahili and International Cuisine with views that take will take your breath away. From sundowners to beach parties that last all night long, you will have entertainment or rest at one of the top-rated Kenyan beaches.
Seafood lovers and visitors craving an eclectic mix of local delicacies will not be disappointed 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, you will feel as if you live in an alternate universe though you are not far from any convenience or modernity necessity that you may desire.
There are several shopping centres with quaint coffee shops and stalls 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 range of luxurious hotels and resorts situated along the beach and 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
A MULTITUDE OF WAYS TO EXPLORE THIS PARADISE
For adventure hungry visitors, they are several options to explore Diani Beach
Bike Tours – these are perfect for more fitness – minded tourists and they are the perfect way to enjoy the sights at your own pace
Extreme water sport activities – water sport activities are available in abundance and these include Jet Ski safari adventures, fly board, kite surfing, kayaking and wind surfing.
Take a trip in a luxury motorboat, a glass – bottomed boat or a gentle sail on a traditional dhow.
Explore the island on sightseeing experience on a TukTuk or a rented motorbike
Take a sky diving trip to get an aerial view of the Diani Beach and ensure that you don’t miss a thing
Go fishing with experienced captains, restaurants will be happy to cook your catch for you.
