Kenya's Indian Ocean coast is the perfect partner to a safari. Warm water, palm-fringed beaches and a rich Swahili history make it ideal for resting after long game drives, or for a holiday in its own right. Here is how to choose where to stay and what to do.

Choose your beach

• Diani. Long white sand, clear water and plenty of activities, south of Mombasa.
• Nyali and Bamburi. Close to the city, with a wide choice of resorts and restaurants.
• Watamu. A quieter, more relaxed stretch with a marine park and excellent snorkelling.
• Malindi. A longer-established beach town with a strong Italian influence.

Things to do

• Fort Jesus and Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of centuries of trade on the coast.
• Dhow cruises. A sunset sail with seafood is a coast classic.
• Snorkelling and diving. Marine parks such as Kisite-Mpunguti and Watamu protect coral reefs and sea life.
• Haller Park. A nature park near Bamburi, good for families.
• Kitesurfing and water sports. Diani is popular for both beginners and experts.

Best time to go

The coast is lovely all year. January to March is hot and dry, and June to October is cooler and breezy, which suits active travellers. April to May is the long-rains season, when you will find lower prices and fewer visitors.

Combine it with a safari

A popular plan is a few days in the Mara or Amboseli followed by several relaxing beach nights. You can also reach Tsavo from the coast by road, which makes a short safari easy.

Practical tips

1. Use reef-safe sunscreen and respect the marine park rules.
2. Carry a light cover-up for visits to mosques and old town sites.
3. Agree activity prices before you start, and book through your hotel or a trusted operator.

Ready to plan it? Browse our safari packages or talk to a consultant and we will shape a trip around your dates and budget.

Photo: Łukasz Ciesielski - kontakt: Facebook, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons