About Diani Beach
Diani is a long stretch of white sand south of Mombasa, protected by a reef and lined with palms. It is where Kenyan safaris end when people want a few days of doing nothing afterwards, and it is close enough to Tsavo to reach by road in an afternoon.
The one excursion worth the day is Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park: a dhow from Shimoni, snorkelling over the reef, dolphins if they are about, and a Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island. The return to Nairobi is by a short flight from Ukunda or the SGR train from Mombasa.
Known for
- Reef-protected white-sand beach
- Dhow trip to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park
- Swahili lunch on Wasini Island
- Flights from Ukunda or the SGR train home
Wildlife you can expect
- Dolphin
- Sea turtle
- Reef fish
- Colobus monkey
- Whale shark (seasonal)
When to visit Diani Beach
- Jan – Mar
Beach season
Hot, dry and calm, with the clearest water for snorkelling.
Our pick - Apr – May
Long rains
The wettest months on the coast; some resorts close.
Quieter and cheaper - Jun – Oct
Cool and dry
Cooler days by the sea and a fresh breeze off the reef.
Good time to go - Nov – Dec
Short rains
Brief showers and warm, uncrowded beaches.
Good time to go
Safaris that visit Diani Beach
Want Diani Beach on your route?
Send your dates and a rough idea of what you want to see. We come back with a day-by-day route and a quote, usually within one working day.