The perfect holiday in Watamu and Malindi

Whether it's a family holiday, a romantic getaway or a wild coastal adventure, you'll never forget the wonders of the Kenya coast.

Heading north from Mombasa, you’ll find Watamu and Malindi, both excellent Kenya beach holiday destinations with a variety of luxury properties to choose from. Coral reefs fringe the powdery white sand and marine life flourishes in the warm turquoise ocean. Life here is laid back, and with direct flights from the Masai Mara to Malindi, a stay here perfectly compliments a safari holiday.

On a tailor made Watamu beach holiday you'll experience one of the most undeveloped and idyllic villages on the coast, having preserved its natural surroundings and retained a peaceful, laid-back way of life. There are no high-rise hotels here, just a beautifully curated handful of boutique offerings scattered along long beach. A holiday here is all about barefoot walks in the sand, haggling for fresh coconuts with street vendors, swimming in the impossibly tropical seas, and exploring the Watamu Marine National Park. Guests can explore the rich local culture and history, sample the fusion cuisine and fresh seafood, or get active by kite surfing, diving, or fishing. At the southern end of Watamu is Mida Creek, a large mangrove-fringed saltwater creek perfect for birding, canoeing and visiting the famous Crab Shack for a spot of lunch with the locals. A sunset dhow trip up the creek is a must on any Watamu holiday.

Less than half an hour from Watamu, Malindi is the last sizeable town on the south coast before reaching Lamu. It’s one of the oldest coastal settlements with an interesting mix of Swahili, Arab, colonial settlers and Italians, who have resided here for many years. A luxury Malindi beach holiday is all about beautiful white sand, and the coral reefs have been declared the Malindi Marine National Park, which is a superb place for diving, snorkelling, surfing, and fishing for marlin, shark and sailfish.