Diani
Beach

Introduction

Longing for an escape on white sandy beaches? Diani is the place to visit with clear waters and white beaches, where you can enjoy camel riding at sunset or feed your adrenaline with kitesurfing or diving into coral reefs, meeting sea life in its habitat.

Diani is a renowned Kenyan coastal destination known for its pristine white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and diverse range of activities. Diani has become a top destination for travelers seeking relaxation and an escape from the busy day-to-day hustle. Visitors can enjoy activities like water sports, like snorkeling, safaris, and cultural experiences. Unwind in Diani’s tropical paradise.

Location

It is a beach on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya. It is located 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Mombasa. A drive to Diani takes approximately 8 hours from Nairobi and 1 hour via the Likoni ferry, or by flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi, a 1-hour flight with a scenic aerial view. 

Diani Reserves, Parks  & Scenic Places

Diani Turtle Watch is home to the gentle giants of the ocean. Annually, endangered sea turtles make their way onto Diani’s shores to nest, making their survival not fully guaranteed. Diani Turtle Watch dedicates itself to protecting these ancient turtles through their nesting period, rescue operations, and community awareness. Visit this amazing Diani Turtle Watch and witness baby turtles hatching! 

In the heart of Diani Beach is the Colobus Conservation, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to protecting the endangered Angolan Colobus monkeys. The Colobus conservation sanctuary offers guided tours where visitors can see the rescued monkeys up close and walk along monkey bridges. Whether you’re a nature lover or photographer, this sanctuary is perfect for you.

Visit this marine reserve and dive into the underwater wonderland! Just beneath the calm waters of Diani lies a stunning view of coral reefs to rare and endangered sea creatures. This paradise is a dream come true for divers and lovers of marine biodiversity. Diani Chale Marine Park was established to protect Kenya’s coastal ecosystems while still contributing to the ocean conservation effort.

ReefoDivers Diani is a coral reef conservation project that immerses its visitors in more than just the restoration. Located just outside the Swahili Beach Resort, this eco-conscious dive center not only teaches you to dive, but also visitors get the chance to restore coral reefs while enjoying the underwater spectacle. This restoration lets you make a difference in the marine ecosystem.

A scuba diver in the ocean collecting corals.

Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest is a UNESCO-listed cultural site that brings along spiritual treasure, offering a rare glimpse into the ancient beliefs of the Mijikenda people. Believed to be 1000 years old, Kaya inondo is filled with towering trees, sacred shrines, and whispers of ancestral spirits. A guided walk inside this enchanted forest is something worthwhile, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a spiritual connection, nature lovers, and history lovers. 

Diani Hotels and Resorts
( Beachfront & Around )

Water Lovers Beach Resort

Beachfront

The Villa Luxury Suites

Around

The Maji Beach Boutique Hotel

Beachfront

Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa

Beachfront

Alfajiri Villa

Beachfront

Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa

Beachfront

Leopard Beach Resort

Beachfront

All Neptune Resorts

Inside

Swahili Beach Resort

Beachfront

Southern Palms Beach Resort

Beachfront

Baobab Beach Resort & Spa

Beachfront

Nomad Beach Resort

Beachfront

Chale Island Resort

Beachfront (Island resort)

Villa Mandhari Beach

Beachfront

Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort

Beachfront

Safari Beach Hotel Diani

Beachfront

Papillon Lagoon Reef

Beachfront

Diani Sea Lodge

Beachfront

Water Lovers Beach Resort

Beachfront

The Villa Luxury Suites

Around

The Maji Beach Boutique Hotel

Beachfront

Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa

Beachfront

Alfajiri Villa

Beachfront

Swahili Beach Resort

Beachfront

Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa

Beachfront

Chale Island Resort

Beachfront (Island resort)

Southern Palms Beach Resort

Beachfront

Leopard Beach Resort

Beachfront

All Neptune Resorts

Inside

Baobab Beach Resort & Spa

Beachfront

Nomad Beach Resort

Beachfront

Villa Mandhari Beach

Beachfront

Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort

Beachfront

Safari Beach Hotel Diani

Beachfront

Papillon Lagoon Reef

Beachfront

Diani Sea Lodge

Beachfront

Airstrips/Airports around Diani

The main gateway to Diani Beach is Ukunda Airport, which is situated just 5 minutes from the top accommodations on the coast, with the closest being Sands at Nomad and Baobab Beach Resort. Ukunda Airstrip is just 98 feet (30 meters) above sea level.

At an altitude of 200 feet (61 meters), Mombasa Moi International Airport (MBA) is 45 minutes from Diani by road. The closest stays are Sarova Whitesands and Voyager Beach Resort. Moi International Airport runs from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, making it ideal for flexibility in your safari.

Wildlife in Diani

Monkeys & primates

Colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, sykes monkeys

Marine life & Ocean Animals

Dolphins, whale sharks, sea turtles, colorful fish & corals (parrotfish, angelfish, lionfish

Small Mammals & reptiles

Bush babies, monitor lizards, chameleons, geckos, snakes

Birds

Kingfishers, hornbills, sunbirds, fish eagles, and flamingos

Tsavo West Common Activities

Snorkeling

Swimming

Jet skiing

Boat riding 

Windsurfing 

Scuba diving 

Paddleboarding 

Beach party

Diani FAQs

What kind of food is available in Diani?

Diani has a mix of Swahili, seafood, Italian, Indian, and international cuisines.

What’s the best time to visit Diani Beach?

The best months are July to March, when the weather is warm and dry.

Is Diani Beach family-friendly?

Yes, there are many kid-friendly resorts, activities, and safe swimming areas.

Can I use my credit card in Diani?

Yes, most hotels, restaurants, and major shops accept Visa and Mastercard, but small vendors prefer cash or M-Pesa.

Can I swim in the ocean at Diani Beach?

Yes! The beach has warm, calm waters and is safe for swimming.

Is Diani Beach crowded?

No, Diani is much quieter than the beaches in Mombasa, making it great for relaxation.

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