Kenya Beach Holidays: Diani, Watamu & Lamu Vacation Packages

Kenya Peaks Adventures offers relaxing Beach Holidays Tours along Kenya’s stunning Indian Ocean coastline, from the pristine white sands of Diani Beach to the historic charm of Lamu Island. We arrange everything from luxury resort stays and private villas to flights and activities, creating the perfect tropical escape or post-safari extension.

Choosing Between Diani, Watamu, and Lamu for Your Holiday

Kenya's coast is not a single destination but a string of unique locations, each with its own character and appeal. The most common question we get is which beach is the right fit. The choice between the three main hubs—Diani, Watamu, and Lamu (depends entirely on the type of holiday you are looking for).

Here is a simple breakdown to help you decide:

• Diani Beach: This is the classic tropical paradise. Voted Africa's leading beach destination multiple times, Diani boasts a long stretch of powder-white sand, turquoise waters, and a fantastic selection of resorts and restaurants. It is ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxing holiday with all the modern comforts.
• Watamu: Known for the Watamu Marine National Park, this area is a haven for snorkeling, diving, and marine life enthusiasts. It has a more laid-back, bohemian vibe than Diani and is a great base for exploring attractions like the Gede Ruins. It's a top spot for spotting dolphins, especially during the annual dolphins watching season.
• Lamu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lamu offers a journey back in time. With no cars and a unique Swahili culture, it is perfect for travelers seeking history, culture, and a tranquil, disconnected escape.

What Kinds of Activities Can You Do on the Kenyan Coast

A Kenyan beach holiday can be as relaxed or as active as you wish. Beyond sunbathing on the beautiful beaches, there is a wide array of activities to enjoy. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for water sports, and the rich Swahili culture provides plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Popular activities include:

• Water Sports: Snorkeling and diving are world-class in the protected marine parks. You can also enjoy kite surfing (especially in Diani), deep-sea fishing, and traditional dhow sailing trips.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit the historic Old Town of Mombasa, explore the ancient ruins of Gede, or immerse yourself in the unique culture of Lamu Island. These cultural visits add a rich layer to your beach holiday.
• Wildlife Encounters: The coast is not just about marine life. You can visit the Shimba Hills National Reserve near Diani, which is home to the rare Sable antelope, or the Arabuko Sokoke Forest near Watamu, a haven for rare birds and butterflies.

Our team can pre-book any of these activities for you as part of your holiday package.

How to Easily Combine a Safari with a Beach Holiday in Kenya

The "bush and beach" combination is a classic and highly rewarding way to experience Kenya. After the early mornings and dusty roads of a safari, a few days of relaxation on the coast is the perfect contrast. We make combining these two experiences simple and seamless, handling all the logistics for you.

The most efficient way to connect your safari to the coast is by air. There are daily scheduled flights from the Masai Mara and other major safari hubs directly to the coastal airports at Diani (Ukunda) and Malindi (for Watamu). This short flight saves you a full day of travel compared to driving back to Nairobi and then flying. We can arrange your entire journey, from your last game drive to your arrival at your beach resort. A tour like our 10 Days Kenya Parks & Diani Beach Safari is a perfect example of a pre-designed bush and beach itinerary. You can also find general travel tips in our main Travel Planning Guide.

Types of Accommodation from All-Inclusive Resorts to Private Villas

The Kenyan coast offers a wide spectrum of accommodation to suit every travel style and budget. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly resort with all the amenities or a secluded and private retreat, we can help you find the perfect property. Our portfolio includes everything from large, all-inclusive hotels to intimate boutique properties and exclusive-use beach villas.

The main accommodation options are:

• All-Inclusive Resorts: Primarily found in Diani and along the Mombasa coast, these resorts are a great option for families and those who want a hassle-free holiday. All meals, drinks, and many activities are included in the price.
• Boutique Hotels: These are smaller, more intimate properties that offer a higher level of personal service and unique character. They are a popular choice for couples and honeymooners.
• Private Villas: For the ultimate in privacy and flexibility, a private, fully-staffed beach villa is the perfect choice. This is an excellent option for larger families or groups of friends traveling together.

We can provide recommendations based on your specific needs, ensuring your chosen accommodation is the perfect fit for your beach holiday.

Best Time of Year for a Kenyan Beach Holiday

Kenya's coast enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, making it a great destination at any time. However, there are distinct seasons that are better suited for a beach holiday, primarily determined by the timing of the rains. The best weather is generally found during the two dry seasons.

The ideal times to visit the coast are:

• June to October: This is the long dry season. The days are sunny and pleasant with low humidity, making it perfect for beach relaxation and water sports.
• January to March: This is the short dry season, and it is the hottest and most humid time of year. The ocean is at its calmest and clearest, offering the absolute best conditions for diving and snorkeling.

The main rainy season is from April to May, and there is a shorter, less intense rainy season from November to December. While you can still enjoy a holiday during these times, you should expect some afternoon showers. Our guide on the best time to visit Kenya provides more detailed information on the coastal climate.

Sample Itineraries for a Beach and Bush Combination

Our "bush and beach" tours are among our most popular offerings, providing a perfectly balanced and unforgettable Kenyan holiday. The itineraries are private and can be fully customized, but the following examples showcase some well-tested and popular routes.

Example Itineraries:

• 10 Days Kenya Parks & Diani Beach Safari: This is the quintessential bush and beach journey. It combines the classic southern safari circuit, including Amboseli and the Masai Mara, with a relaxing 4-night stay at a beautiful resort on Diani Beach.
• 10 Days Luxury Fly-in Kenya Safari to Samburu, Mara & Diani Beach: For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and efficiency, this luxury fly-in safari connects the unique wilderness of Samburu, the iconic Masai Mara, and the pristine sands of Diani, all with short and scenic flights.

These itineraries can be adjusted to suit your preferences. We can change the duration of the safari or the beach stay, swap destinations, or select different lodges and resorts. To start planning your own perfect bush and beach holiday, please use our custom trip planner.