Kenya’s coastline stretches some 480 kilometres from Tanzania in the south to Somalia in the north, a melody of tranquil white beaches, golden sand dunes, warm turquoise water, archaeological treasures and idyllic secluded islands, all steeped in a distinct and evocative culture that stretches back centuries. Four Marine National Parks and five Marine National Reserves afford protection to a myriad of fishes and their habitat – the coral reefs.

The influence of Kenya’s rich trading history is still very much a part of the area's unique and lively culture, which makes a holiday to the Kenyan coast more than a simple sun and sand fix. The coast was a pivotal stop on the spice route, where, from the 9th century, Indian, Arabic and African traders settled to create a Swahili culture that is still thriving today.

The coastline North of Mombasa is a world of enthralling history and natural beauty.

The coast is lined with pristine palm fringed beaches, and the calm inviting waters of the Indian Ocean. The beaches are broken by the wide mouth of Kilifi Creek, whose azure waters are a popular port of call on the international yachting circuit.

The beaches of Nyali, Vipingo, Kikambala and Shanzu are home to a wide range of World Class resorts with fine cuisine and services.

The peaceful beach havens of Mtwapa and Takaungu offer an ideal escape from the outside world, with endless deserted beaches.

The offshore reefs are alive with coral, myriad fish, sea turtles and dolphins. Both outer and inner reef walls offer world class diving with spectacular coral gardens and drop offs, and Kenya's best wreck diving on the MV Dania. At Kisite-Mpunguti, a Marine Reserve has been established around beautiful Wasini Island , an ideal day trip for divers and snorkellers.

The coastline south of Mombasa is a tropical paradise of palm fringed white sand beaches, where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean meet beautiful coral reefs.

The protective reefs have created ideal beaches with calm, inviting waters. Days are filled with sunshine and nights are balmy and warm with gentle sea breezes.

The beaches are bordered by lush green coastal rainforests with prolific birdlife and variety of wildlife including baboons, rare colobus monkeys and even leopard.

A wide range of World Class resorts, centred around Diani Beach allow visitors to relax and enjoy this natural paradise with the best standards of accommodation, service and cuisine.

The south coast also has many smaller quiet getaways such as Tiwi Beach, ideal for travellers looking for a low key break.

Inland, the fertile hinterland of Kwale District consists of small villages inhabited by the Wakamba, Digo and Duruma tribes.

Further south, the small fishing village of Shimoni is home to a series of deep mysterious coastal caves that stretch from the sea to deep into the jungles. Historically, these caves were long used as a refuge for Dhow Sailors, Arab slavers and explorers.

Shimoni is also an excellent base for big game fishing in the waters of the Pemba Channel.

Whether you are looking for a base to actively explore this fascinating region, or just somewhere to unwind and find peace, Kenya's south coast has everything you could wish for.

The Kenya coast is, for convenience, divided into four regions: