Waterlovers Hotel

Location: Waterlovers Beach Resort is tucked along the palm-fringed sands of Diani Beach on Kenya's south coast - a stretch we keep coming back to for its powdery white beaches, turquoise water, and relaxed, barefoot feel. The resort sits right on the beachfront, with direct access to one of the most beautiful and swimmable stretches of coastline in the country. It's far enough from the busier parts of Diani to feel peaceful, but close enough to enjoy local restaurants, boutiques, and dive centres. Whether you're looking to unwind after a safari or escape to the coast for a few easygoing days, Waterlovers is a lovely, low-key place to land.

Rooms: There are just eight suites here, all thoughtfully designed with a Mediterranean-Coastal feel - think curved white walls, driftwood details, and splashes of colour from local art. Each suite has a sea view, a spacious private veranda, and a breezy, open-plan layout that immediately puts you in holiday mode. You’ll also find a self-catering villa and a private penthouse for families or small groups who want a little more space and independence. Interiors are stylish without being overdone - comfortable, welcoming, and full of character.

Amenities: For a small hotel, Waterlovers packs a lot in. There’s a lagoon-style pool shaped like Africa, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh, seasonal food (the seafood pasta is a favourite), and a laid-back bar where sundowners come with ocean views and a gentle sea breeze. You’ll find a boutique spa offering massages and beauty treatments, and yoga sessions can be arranged on request. The atmosphere is relaxed and personal, with owners Antonella and Riccardo often on hand to share local tips or simply chat over a coffee. It’s the kind of place where you’re made to feel more like a house guest than a hotel customer.

Activities: Diani is known for its blend of beachside relaxation and easy access to adventure. At Waterlovers, you can snorkel or paddleboard straight from the beach, book kite-surfing lessons nearby, or head out on a dhow trip to explore the coral reefs and sandbanks just offshore. For divers, the marine life here is excellent, with several reputable dive schools close by. Inland, you can visit the sacred Kaya Kinondo forest or take a day trip to Shimba Hills for a change of scene and a bit of wildlife. Or, of course, you can do absolutely nothing and not feel guilty about it for a second.

Sustainability: Waterlovers is quietly but purposefully eco-conscious. The resort was built using local materials and runs on solar power where possible. Plastic use is minimised, and the team has a strong relationship with the local community, supporting beach clean-ups, cultural exchanges, and responsible tourism initiatives. The food is locally sourced, the staff are from the area, and there’s a genuine sense that your stay here is contributing to something good. It’s not flashy, but it’s meaningful - just like the whole experience.