Diani Beach Holidays: Where the Ocean Meets the Wild

Diani Beach is located in southeastern Kenya, on the Indian Ocean.  It lies approximately 30 kilometres (19 mi) south of the port city of Mombasa.

Moi International Airport in Mombasa, is the nearest large airport and is serviced by both regional airlines and international airlines out of Africa, Europe and the Middle East.  As there is no public transport, those wishing to reach Diani Beach will either need to hire a rental vehicle, taxi or rideshare (Uber).  Alternatively, arrange an airport transfer to your hotel.

From December to March and from June to September are the best times to visit Diani Beach.  Being the dry season, the climate is fantastic, with little rain and hot, sunny conditions.  April to May experiences significant rainfall with humidity, while October to November is also very humid.

English and Swahili are the official languages of Kenya.  As the area is popular with tourists, English is widely spoken.  Swahili is the predominant local language.

As a popular tourist area, Diani Beach is generally safe to visit.  As is the case when visiting any unfamiliar destination, it is best not to venture out alone, especially at night.  Remain vigilant and secure your valuables.  Pickpockets may operate on the beach and in crowded areas.

As a tropical beach destination, pack lightweight, breathable clothing and your preferred swimwear.  Due to religious considerations, wear modest clothing when not at the beach.  Take comfortable walking shoes and sandals.  Sun protection is vital, including sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.  Along with your toiletries, you can pack a small first-aid kit, insect repellent and after-sun lotion.  If you have your own, take snorkelling gear (although it can be rented locally).  A rain jacket will be useful in the event of rain.  Carry your daily essentials in a small backpack or beach bag.  Don’t forget your smartphone, camera and accessories, as well as reading material, travel documents and prescription medication.

Diani Beach is a tropical paradise of warm, clear, azure waters fringed by white sandy beaches and palm trees.  Water-based activities in Diani include swimming, snorkelling, SCUBA diving, kite surfing and boating.  Numerous beach resorts and restaurants are serving fresh seafood.  Be ready to haggle at the local markets and be entranced by the cultural highlights.  The atmosphere is very relaxed and ideal for nature lovers.

As a beach destination with numerous activities at your disposal, you should look to spend at least three days at Diani Beach.

If the kids ever tire of playing on the beach, take them to visit the Colobus Conservation centre for an informative tour.  Boat tours to view marine life, including snorkelling are readily available.  It is also possible to rent water sports equipment.  Ask us at FlashMc Tours about wildlife day trips.

Yes, FlashMc Tours will gladly assist in finding the right guided experience for your interests.

Yes.  Generally, the WiFi and mobile coverage is good.  Most tourist establishments and restaurants offer free WiFi.  We suggest getting a local SIM card with a data plan if you would like consistent online access.

Expect to spend between $50-$75 per day.  While US dollars are accepted in some tourist locations, it is best to carry the local currency – the Kenya Shilling (KES).  Most ATMs only dispense KES.  Credit card facilities are available, Visa and Mastercard being the most widely accepted.  Remember to be vigilant and secure your cash and credit cards in a safe place at all times.

If you would like to tip the general hotel staff, we suggest between $10-$20 per room per day.  Porters, around $1/bag.  Restaurants and bars – 10% or more of the total bill.  Although tipping is common practice in Kenya, it is not mandatory.

Diani Beach offers a large selection of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.  You will find backpacker hostels, guesthouses (Airbnb), beach resorts, eco-lodges and luxury hotels.

• Beaches – Diani Beach, Galu Kinondo
• Beach andLantana Galu Beach
• Marine Excursions – Kisite-Mpunguti
• Marine National Park, Wasini Island and Diani Chale Marine National Reserve
• Arts – Diani Beach Art Gallery
• Dining – Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant
• Nature – Colobus Conservation and
• Shimba Hills Nature Reserve

Yes.  Set off in the early morning for an exhilarating day trip viewing the wildlife at Shimba Hills before returning for a sumptuous seafood meal at Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant.

• Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest – UNESCO World Heritage site and holds cultural and spiritual significance for the local Digo community.
• Shimoni Caves – Once used by slave traders.
• Gede Ruins – An ancient Swahili town dating back to the 12th century.
• Kongo Mosque – One of East Africa’s oldest mosques, built in the 14th century.

Yes.  The tropical beaches, breathtaking sunrises, colourful beaches and nearby natural and historical attractions provide ample photographic opportunities.

FlashMc Tours will gladly assist in arranging a guided cultural experience, such as the Giriama Cultural Dance Show and Local Village Tour, or a visit to a local fishing community to learn more about the local’s relationship with the sea.

Yes.

Diani Beach is culturally important in African culture, especially concerning its coastal heritage.  Furthermore, it is a hub of Swahili culture and reflects the blend of African, Arab and Indian influences on one another.  The Digo people have a spiritual affinity for the area, particularly the Kaya Kinondo Forest.

As a mark of respect for local culture, please consider the following:

• Prolonged greetings are the norm in Diani Beach.  It is considered rude to simply get down to business.
• Kenyan society is quite conservative and modest.  Please dress accordingly, particularly if visiting religious sites.
• Only wear beachwear at the beach.
• Avoid yes/no questions.
• Do not point your finger at another person.
• Use your right hand to eat, touch or pass items.
• “Jambo” meaning ‘hello’ and other key Swahili phrases go a long way to crossing cultural barriers.
• Remove your shoes before entering a home or religious site.
• Limit public displays of affection.
• Haggling at markets is accepted as normal.