Diani Beach: planning a Kenya beach holiday

When to go

The coast is warm and humid all year. December to March is hot and mostly dry, and is the busiest season. The heaviest rain usually falls from around April to June. July to October is a little cooler and breezier, which kitesurfers love. Whatever the month, the sun is strong, so plan the middle of the day around shade.

Getting there

Diani is on the south coast, south of Mombasa. You have three good options from Nairobi.

• Fly direct to Ukunda: Diani's own airstrip is minutes from the beach, with flights from Nairobi. It is the quickest option.
• Fly to Mombasa: Moi International Airport has frequent flights from Nairobi. From there it is a drive south, across the harbour by the Likoni ferry or around it by road, depending on traffic.
• Take the train: the Madaraka Express, the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) train, runs from Nairobi to Mombasa in roughly five to six hours, followed by the drive south. See our Mombasa guide for how the train works.

We can arrange the transfer from the airport or station so someone is waiting for you. Road transfers are provided by our sister company, Urban Escape Luxury Cars.

Where to base yourself

Most places to stay line Diani Beach Road, which runs parallel to the sand. You can choose between large beachfront resorts with everything on site, smaller boutique hotels, and private villas and cottages, which are popular with families and groups travelling together. Beachfront matters more here than almost anywhere, so we always check what is between your room and the sea. Ask us for our current, personally vetted picks.

What to do

• Swim and snorkel: the reef keeps the water calm at many points. Snorkelling is best at low tide.
• Visit the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park near Shimoni, further south, known for its coral and, often, dolphins. Check current park fees with the Kenya Wildlife Service.
• Look out for colobus monkeys in the coastal forest along the beach road; drivers slow down for them.
• Try kitesurfing, diving or a sunset dhow cruise with a reputable operator.
• Take a day trip inland to the Shimba Hills National Reserve for forest, views and, with luck, sable antelope and elephants.
• Eat well: grilled seafood, coconut curries and Swahili dishes such as biryani and pilau.

With children

Diani is one of the easiest places in Kenya for children. Choose a stay with shallow, calm water in front and shade around the pool. The tide goes out a long way, which reveals rock pools to explore, but check the tide times, keep reef shoes on for sea urchins and swim where others swim. The midday sun is fierce: plan beach time for mornings and late afternoons.

Beach sellers

You will meet friendly vendors on the sand offering boat trips, crafts and tours. A polite, firm "no thank you" is enough. If you want a trip, book it through your hotel or ask us; we only recommend what we know.

Staying safe

Diani is relaxed, and most visitors have nothing but good memories. Don't walk on empty stretches of beach after dark, keep valuables in your safe, and use arranged transport at night. Speak to a travel clinic about malaria advice for the coast well before you travel, and use repellent in the evenings.

Ready to plan?

Tell us when you'd like to go and how you'd like to travel, and we'll handle the details. Plan your trip with us, or read our guide to getting around Kenya.