Kenya coast destination
Diani Beach
Powder-white sand, a turquoise lagoon and coral reef, with colobus monkeys in the coastal forest.
Location
Kwale County, Kenya
Best time
December to March
Ideal stay
Three to five nights
Famous for
White sand and reef
Location
Kwale County, Kenya
Best time
December to March
Ideal stay
Three to five nights
Famous for
White sand and reef
Plan around the tide
Swim and snorkel at high tide, then walk out to the reef pools at low tide.
Kenya’s favourite beach
Diani lies on Kenya’s south coast in Kwale County, about an hour south of Mombasa. Its long beach of fine white sand is sheltered by a coral reef that keeps the lagoon calm and clear.
Diani is an easy finish after a safari in Tsavo East or Amboseli.
Read more about Diani Beach on Wikipedia.
Behind the beach, patches of coastal forest are home to the rare Angolan colobus monkey, and boats head south to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park for some of Kenya’s best snorkelling. With steady winds and warm water, Diani is also one of East Africa’s top spots for kitesurfing.
Places to explore
- Diani Beach
- Galu Beach
- Tiwi Beach
- Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park
- Wasini Island
- Shimba Hills
Marine and forest life
Between the reef and the coastal forest, Diani is full of wildlife on land and at sea.
Angolan colobus
Sea turtle
Dolphin
Reef fish
Humpback whale
Starfish
More than a beach break
Hover or tap a card to see how each experience fits into your days in Diani.
Snorkelling and diving
Snorkelling and diving
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing
Camel rides
Camel rides
Wasini Island dhow trip
Wasini Island dhow trip
Beach walks
Beach walks
Seafood and Swahili food
Seafood and Swahili food
When to visit Diani
Diani is warm all year. The season you pick shapes the weather, the wind and the sea.
Best time
December to March
Hot, dry season
Sunny days, calm water and the best visibility for snorkelling and diving.
April to June
Long rains
Heavy showers and humid air, but quiet beaches and low rates.
July to October
Cool, dry season
Breezy days, strong kitesurfing winds and humpback whales offshore.
November
Short rains
Short tropical showers between long sunny spells.
Planning your trip
The practical details, so you can decide how to travel and where to stay.
Getting there
Fly in or drive from Mombasa.
- By air: direct flights from Nairobi land at Ukunda airstrip, just minutes from the beach.
- By road: about an hour from Mombasa via the Likoni ferry or the Dongo Kundu bypass.
- Combined routes: pairs well with Tsavo East, Tsavo West or Shimba Hills for a safari and beach trip.
Where to stay
Resorts, villas and boutique hotels.
- On the beach: resorts and boutique hotels right on the sand.
- Villas and cottages: private stays for families and groups.
- Any budget: we match stays to your style, from simple cottages to luxury resorts.
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park fees are charged by Kenya Wildlife Service per person. Ask us for the current rates when you request your quote.
Safari and beach holidays
Ready-made trips that end on the sand in Diani after a safari in Tsavo, Amboseli or the Maasai Mara.
- Amboseli National Park, Tsavo East & West
- 4 Days 3 Nights
- Amboseli, Tsavo East
- 4 Days 3 Nights
- Amboseli, Tsavo East
- 3 Days 2 Nights
Diani Beach FAQs
Can’t see your question here? Our Nairobi team is available 24/7.
Talk to Serval Tours and Travel
- +254 792 335842 (call or WhatsApp)
- info@servaltoursandtravel.com
- Blessed House, Thika Road, Nairobi
- P.O. Box 22122-00100, Nairobi
- Available 24/7
Where is Diani Beach?
Diani is on Kenya’s south coast in Kwale County, about an hour south of Mombasa.
How many days do you need in Diani?
Three to five nights is ideal for beach time, a dhow trip to Wasini Island and a day on the water.
What is the best time to visit Diani?
December to March is hot and dry with calm seas. July to October is cooler and windier, which kitesurfers love. April to June is the wettest period.
How do you get to Diani from Nairobi?
Direct flights from Nairobi land at Ukunda airstrip near the beach. You can also fly or take the train to Mombasa and drive about an hour south.
Is Diani good for families?
Yes. The reef keeps the lagoon calm, the beach is wide and safe for walks, and many resorts have pools and family rooms.
Can you see dolphins at Diani?
Yes. Dhow trips to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park often see bottlenose and spinner dolphins, though sightings are never guaranteed.
Is Diani good for kitesurfing?
Yes. Steady trade winds and a shallow lagoon make it one of East Africa’s best kitesurfing spots, especially from July to March.
Can I combine Diani with a safari?
Yes. Tsavo East, Tsavo West and Shimba Hills are within easy reach, and many guests fly in after a safari in the Maasai Mara.
Start planning your Diani getaway
Tell us your dates, group size and budget. We’ll come back with a Diani plan built around the season and the experiences you want most.