Travel & holidays
Things to do on the Kenyan coast: Mombasa, Diani, Watamu, Lamu and Tsavo
Fort Jesus, Diani Beach, Watamu's marine park, Lamu Old Town and Tsavo: what to see and do along the Kenyan coast, county by county.
The Coast covers 6 counties: Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, Tana River, Taita-Taveta. Highlights include Fort Jesus, Diani Beach, Watamu and Malindi.
About the region
The coast mixes white-sand beaches, coral reefs and Swahili history. Fort Jesus in Mombasa and Lamu Old Town are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and marine parks at Mombasa, Watamu, Malindi and Kisite-Mpunguti protect the reefs. Inland, Tsavo East and Tsavo West make up Kenya's largest protected wilderness.
Getting there and around
The SGR train runs from Nairobi to Mombasa in about five hours, with a stop at Voi for Tsavo. To reach Diani and the south coast from Mombasa island, most people cross on the Likoni ferry. There are flights to Mombasa, Ukunda (Diani), Malindi and Lamu.
County by county
Mombasa
County 1 · headquarters: Mombasa
- Fort Jesus: A 16th-century Portuguese fort and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Old Town: Swahili architecture, narrow streets, spice and coffee shops.
- Haller Park: A restored quarry turned nature park.
- Nyali and Bamburi beaches: Beaches and the Mombasa Marine Park.
Kwale
County 2 · headquarters: Kwale
- Diani Beach: White sand, kitesurfing, snorkelling and diving.
- Shimba Hills National Reserve: Forest, sable antelope and the Sheldrick Falls walk.
- Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park and Wasini: Dolphin trips and snorkelling from Shimoni.
Kilifi
County 3 · headquarters: Kilifi
- Watamu and Malindi: Marine parks, turtles and beaches.
- Gede ruins: A ruined Swahili town in the forest, run by the National Museums.
- Arabuko-Sokoke Forest: Coastal forest walks and rare birds.
- Mida Creek: Mangrove boardwalk and birdwatching.
- Marafa (Hell's Kitchen): Eroded sandstone gorges, best at sunset.
Lamu
County 5 · headquarters: Lamu
- Lamu Old Town: A UNESCO-listed Swahili town with no cars.
- Shela beach: Long, quiet beach and sand dunes.
- Dhow trips: Sailing trips around the archipelago.
Several foreign governments advise against travel to parts of Lamu County outside Lamu and Manda islands. Check current advice before you go.
Tana River
County 4 · headquarters: Hola
- Tana River Primate National Reserve: Forest along the Tana River, home to rare monkeys.
Check current travel advice and local guidance before visiting. Local research is needed.
Taita-Taveta
County 6 · headquarters: Mwatate
- Tsavo East and Tsavo West: Kenya's largest protected wilderness, with red-dust elephants and Mzima Springs.
- Taita Hills: Cool hills, forest and a wildlife sanctuary.
- Lake Chala: A crater lake on the Tanzania border.
Before you go
Opening hours, entry fees and event dates change, so check them with the operator, the Kenya Wildlife Service or the county government before you travel. Places in this guide were last checked on 19 Oct 2026. If something has changed, tell us.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Diani or Watamu?
Diani has the longer beach, more hotels and kitesurfing. Watamu is quieter, often cheaper, and has a marine park and Mida Creek.
How do I get from Nairobi to the coast?
By SGR train to Mombasa in about five hours, by flight, or by road on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway.
When is the best time to visit the Kenyan coast?
December to March for hot, sunny weather, or July to October for slightly cooler days. April to June is the wettest period.
Sources
- Kenya Wildlife Service — park entry fees
- National Museums of Kenya
- Magical Kenya — Kenya Tourism Board
Links are for reference only. METRIKA is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.
Last reviewed 19 Oct 2026. METRIKA gives estimates and general information, not financial, tax, legal or immigration advice.