What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

Water Activities in Kenya

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

Kenya is a fantastic destination for a beach vacation in Africa. With picturesque beaches and prime opportunities for watersports like surfing, snorkelling, and windsurfing, a beach holiday in Kenya ticks so many boxes.

Why Should You Go on a Beach and Watersports Holiday in Kenya?

Pristine Beaches

Explore Kenya’s pristine beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline. Think white sand and azure water with stunning coral reefs just below the surface.

Spectacular Marine Life

Snorkelling and scuba diving in Kenya will give you the opportunity to see diverse coral reefs as well as dolphins, turtles, various fish, and whale sharks.

Thrilling Watersports

Kenya boasts ideal conditions for a variety of watersports, including surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and deep-sea fishing.

Swahili Culture

During a beach holiday in Kenya, not only can you relax in tropical coastal paradises, but you’ll be surrounded by Swahili culture and have the chance to enjoy Swahili cuisine, which features Indian, Arab, and Portuguese flavours.

Combine Adventure and Relaxation

A Kenya beach holiday is the perfect combination of seaside relaxation and adventures, ticking boxes for both serene settings and adrenaline-pumping activities.

Best Destinations for a Beach and Watersports Holiday in Kenya

Diani Beach

The powder-fine white sand that stretches over this beach makes Diani a highlight of a trip to Kenya. The clear waters flow over coral reefs, making this an ideal place for scuba diving and snorkelling. Visitors can also enjoy kitesurfing and windsurfing here.

Watamu

The bright blue water flows over vibrant coral reefs, creating a picture-perfect environment for those who venture in. Watamu National Park is home to whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, angelfish, lionfish, and other incredible marine animals, making it a popular destination for snorkellers and scuba divers.

Malindi

Malindi is an ancient Swahili trading port that fell under Portuguese influence in the 16th century, where visitors can explore important historical landmarks and the lively beach restaurant scene. Besides visiting historical sites, a trip to Malindi can also include watersports and beach relaxation. Go on snorkelling and diving trips, surf the waves, and head further out for deep-sea fishing.

Lamu Island

Lamu Island’s Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa and a must-visit for a glimpse into the fascinating history of this land. Also a tranquil beach destination, travellers can expect stunning beaches, beautiful coral reefs, and a range of activities to take part in, such as canoeing, SUPing, snorkelling, and fishing.

Mombasa (North and South Coast)

Mombasa’s north coast is a must-visit for seaside and water lovers. Enjoy white sand beaches and azure blue waters with stunning, lively coral reefs below the surface. This region is an internationally recognised location for reef and wall diving.

The south coast is a picture-perfect seaside destination with secluded beaches. Travellers can go on deep-sea fishing excursions, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, as well as snorkelling and scuba diving.

5 Tips for a Beach and Watersports Holiday in Kenya

1. Be Selective With Your Dates

December to March is the hottest time of the year (with the occasional short burst of rain) and therefore perfect for beach activities while on a Kenya safari.  July to October features slightly cooler weather, with temperatures around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Get Quality Gear

For watersports, you can either bring your own gear with you or rent equipment at your destination. Your accommodation can assist with this or point you in the right direction.

3. Be Conservation-Minded

Respect the marine ecosystem and avoid disturbing coral reefs when in the water. Also, respect marine life and avoid touching or coming too close to animals.

4. Hire Experienced Guides

Only use certified instructors for diving and watersports for your safety.

5. Pack Smart

Bring high SPF, a rash guard, and waterproof bags for your belongings.

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

Justin Van Wyk, Safari Travel Planner

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Help me plan

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
We booked our safari through Chrizaan and the whole experience was absolutely...

3 Night Kruger Safari Review

Alejandro Martínez Hernández, Spain
03 Sep 2025
Hi Discover Africa and especially Matthys

Earth Lodge Safari Review

Lana , Australia
07 Aug 2025
Amazing Operator!

Okavango, Moremi and Chobe Safari Review

Laura, Brazil
16 Jun 2025
Chrizaan Troch was wonderful to work with, which resulted in a memorable...
Brilliant Botswana and Victoria Falls safari. Perfectly organised from start to finish...

Victoria Falls and Botswana Birthday Safari Review

Dennis and Susan, United Kingdom
31 May 2025
Communication was excellent, Susan knew her stuff and provided a wealth of...

6 Day Kenya Safari Experience Review

Geoff, Australia
01 Aug 2024