Diani beach is found just about 30 kilometers from Mombasa, Kenya’s coastal city. The beach has been rated as the second best, and most popular beach in Africa and prides of immaculate white sand, palm trees that line the shoreline, the affectionate Swahili natives and their wealth of local cultures and history. Also of significant importance are the spotlessly clean Indian Ocean waters. All these add up to form a glorious beach paradise that received thousands of tourists annually drawn from all over the world!
Unlike a good number beaches in the world that have been misused and poorly conserved, a factor that has led to dwindling quality, pollution and environmental degradation, Diani beach still commands the deference and adoration it did years back. Snorkelers enjoy the thriving coral reef, with the numerous undersea creatures that call this part of the ocean home. The water towards the beach is shallow and best suited for learning how to wind surf and swim; there are competent instructors who will ensure this is achieved.
Mombasa was a crucial port prehistorically, having been used by Portuguese and Arab traders to coordinate trade in the eastern Africa region. With many wrecks below the water surfaces, scuba divers will feel affection for the gigantic structures. Some rare sea creatures can also be spotted like the barracudas, turtles and mantas plus many other marine animals. You can hire dhows from Diani beach and cruise the shores of the Indian ocean at very affordable rates. One of the most famous destinations is the Kisite Marine National Park, an ideal spot for snorkeling. Kisite neighbors the Kenya-Tanzania border and it is just breathtaking.
Another great activity that you cannot afford to miss is the famous swim with the whale sharks and dolphins in Diani beach. Most tour operators and hotels offer customized dhow safaris daily and you can join them for fun and discovery. The sharks are friendly, but you have to be sociable to snorkel with these friendly animals.
The surrounding village also interesting, especially with the locals who lead traditional lifestyles, which you can always explore on a guided excursion, interact with the locals and even learn your first Swahili words. If your main focus is the African wildlife, then you would love a day safari to the two Tsavo National Parks, which are closer by. In the parks, you can see some great African wildlife like the lions, zebras, elephants, hippos, antelopes and gazelles plus numerous bird species.