Tropical Beaches

The magnificent, tropical coastline stretching from southern Kenya into Tanzania is not far from some of our safari locations, which means it’s a perfect destination on its own or an idyllic spot to end your African safari holiday. The monsoon winds of the Indian Ocean have shaped the history and culture of this sparkling coastline, carrying traders and seafarers from Arabia, Persia, India and even China to and from Africa on their seasonal routes. Here, you’ll discover Swahili culture, an exotic fusion of African and Eastern influences.

Zanzibar Archipelago

Without a doubt, the most famous coastal destination in Tanzania is Zanzibar. The Zanzibar archipelago consists of more than 50 islets and two large islands: Pemba and the eponymous main island of Zanzibar (officially known as Unguja). On Zanzibar Island is the capital, Zanzibar City, and its historic centre, Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With miles of soft white sand and warm, turquoise waters, Zanzibar is a paradise where prevailing trade winds and exotic charms have captivated travellers for more than a thousand years.

Zanzibar offers a range of accommodation options and activities, whether you are seeking outdoor adventure or seaside relaxation. Scuba dive in the warm, clear waters where visibility often exceeds 30m, swim among darting reef fish and playful dolphins, enjoy a spa treatment or savour a cocktail on the beach. With palm trees framing your view of sand, sea and lateen-rigged dhows, you can exhale and be soothed by the balmy onshore breeze. When you step away from the sun-soaked beaches, discover the rich history and melting pot of cultures in Stone Town. Here, you’ll find winding alleys echoing with taarab music, magnificently carved wooden doors and warm, welcoming people eager to greet.

Kenya’s South Coast

Kenya’s South Coast shares the exotic Swahili culture and natural beauty of neighbouring Tanzania. Some exceptional spots north of Mombasa include Kilifi, Malindi, Watamu and Lamu. South of Mombasa, a string of resorts offer everything from kitesurfing and underwater safaris to leisurely beach days and cultural visits to Swahili ruins.

Diani Beach, regularly named one of the world’s best beaches, is the most famous of the seaside towns scattered between Mombasa and the Tanzanian border. Here, travellers can visit the Colobus Conservation primate sanctuary and Kaya Kinondo, the only kaya (a sacred forest of the Mijikenda people) that’s open to visitors.

Marine parks and reserves protect a rich diversity of aquatic life, from corals and tropical fishes to turtles and the mighty-yet-mild whale shark. For example, a day trip from Shimoni to Wasini Island loops through the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve, passing dolphins and pausing for some diving before stopping for a delicious seafood feast.

Kenya’s South Coast

Kenya’s South Coast shares the exotic Swahili culture and natural beauty of neighbouring Tanzania. Some exceptional spots north of Mombasa include Kilifi, Malindi, Watamu, and Lamu. South of Mombasa, a string of resorts offer everything from kitesurfing and underwater safaris to leisurely beach days and cultural visits to Swahili ruins.

Diani Beach, regularly named one of the world’s best beaches, is the most famous of the seaside towns scattered between Mombasa and the Tanzanian border. Here, you can visit the Colobus Conservation primate sanctuary and Kaya Kinondo, the only kaya (sacred forest of the Mijikenda people) that’s open to visitors.

Marine parks and reserves protect a rich diversity of aquatic life, from corals and tropical fishes to turtles and the mighty-yet-mild whale shark. For example, a day trip from Shimoni to Wasini Island loops through the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve, passing dolphins and pausing for some diving before stopping for a delicious seafood feast.