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Things to Do in Diani Beach

Things to Do in Diani Beach

Diani Beach Kenya Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The coastal environment of Diani Beach has a suitable setting for various outdoor and water-based activities.

Hiking & Safaris

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Sheldrick Falls (Shimba Hills) features a moderate, short hike. Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest has easy, guided walks centered on cultural and natural insights. Local village walks are possible via local guides.

Adventure Sports

Skydiving: Diani is one of the few places in East Africa that features tandem skydiving. A thrilling freefall with landing directly on the soft beach, a memorable experience.

Wildlife Encounters & Safaris

Shimba Hills National Reserve: Half-day or full-day safaris to observe elephants, sable antelope, colobus monkeys. Colobus Conservation: Learn about and observe colobus monkeys, bolstering their conservation efforts.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Snorkeling & Underwater Diving: Popular at Diani Beach coral reef and Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park. Numerous PADI-certified dive centers feature courses.
  • Kitesurfing/Windsurfing: Diani Beach is a renowned spot. Consistent winds from December to March (Kaskazi) and July to September (Kusi) offer good conditions. Schools present lessons and equipment rentals.
  • Personal Watercraft riding, Parasailing, Banana Boating: Various water sports operators along the beach feature these activities.
  • Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) & Kayaking: Calm waters within the protective reef are ideal for peaceful exploration. Find SUP gear here.

Deep Sea Fishing

  • Organized trips for larger fish like marlin, sailfish, and tuna.
  • Operators furnish all necessary gear.
  • A rewarding activity for enthusiasts.

Cycling Routes

  • Diani has few dedicated cycling routes.
  • Some hotels include bikes for cycling along the beach at low tide.
  • Short rides may be possible on neighborhood streets.

Marine Park Exploration

  • Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park: For going snorkeling and diving.
  • Home to diverse marine life.
  • Water tours are common.

Safety Advisory for Water Sports

Always choose reputable operators with certified instructors and well-maintained supplies for all water activities. Confirm safety briefings prior to participation.

Cultural Immersion

These experiences connect one with traditions and communities.

Workshops & Performances

  • Swahili Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional coastal dishes like pilau, biryani, or samaki wa kupaka. Resorts or private chefs often present these classes.
  • Drumming/Dance Workshops: Some cultural centers or resorts could provide basic lessons in traditional Kenyan drumming or dance.
  • Local Craft Workshops: Opportunities could exist to find out about local wood carving or fabric dyeing techniques.
  • Cultural Performances: Many large resorts showcase evening entertainment, including traditional Kenyan dances. More authentic cultural experiences are found through community-based tourism initiatives.

Community & Language

Community-Based Tourism

Participate in local community efforts through tours to nearby villages. One learns about their way of life, traditional medicine, or sustainable practices. Enquire through ethical tour operators to verify benefits for the community.

Language Learning

Learning a few basic Swahili phrases is highly valued by locals. Formal schools do not offer short-term courses specifically for tourists in Diani. Bringing a Swahili phrasebook for basic communication.

Cultural Festivals

Holidays in islam like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are important at the seaside, featuring special meals and family gatherings. Dates vary annually. Local events are less common tourist attractions.

Relaxation & Wellness

Diani Beach is a suitable place for relaxation and rejuvenation, with many options for unwinding.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Diani Beach provides various options for evening entertainment, from live music to dancing.

Shopping & Markets

Bargaining is often part of the experience in Diani's diverse shopping landscape.

Relaxation & Wellness

Diani Beach is a suitable place for relaxation and rejuvenation, having lots of options for unwinding.

Spa & Yoga Options

  • Spa and Wellness Center Recommendations: Most mid-range to luxury resorts have their own spas. These present massages, body treatments, and beauty services. Independent wellness centers also operate locally.
  • Hot Springs and Natural Therapy Options: No hot springs or specific natural therapy options are located directly in Diani Beach.
  • Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Several boutique hotels and guesthouses provide regular yoga classes or host retreats. The peaceful beach environment is good for self-practice or guided meditation sessions.
  • Traditional Healing Practices: While traditional healers (waganga) exist in local communities, these services are commonly for locals. Tourists seeking wellness usually opt for modern spa treatments.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Resort Day Passes

Many resorts provide day passes, allowing non-guests to use their pools and beach facilities for a fee.

Nomad Beach Bar

Nomad Beach Bar & Restaurant is a popular spot for relaxation by the beach, presenting food and drinks.

Relaxation Experience

Enjoy cocktails by the pool or beachfront, with comfortable loungers and attentive service.

Wellness Activities

Morning Yoga

Participate in beachfront yoga sessions at sunrise for a calming start to your day.

Sunset Meditations

The calm setting is excellent for guided meditation as the sun sets over the ocean.

Beach Walks

Enjoy long, peaceful walks along the expansive white sands of Diani Beach.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Diani Beach provides various options for evening entertainment, from live music to dancing.

Live Music & Bars

  • Live Music Venues: Some vacation spots and beachfront bars feature live bands, often playing reggae, African pop, or international covers. Nomad Beach Bar is a popular location for evening entertainment, attracting a lively crowd.
  • Venues for Theater And performances: Theater and dedicated performance spaces are not a prominent feature in Diani. Larger cultural performances might take place in Mombasa.
  • Bar Districts and Pub Crawls: The main concentration of bars is along Diani Beach Road. Formal pub crawls do not operate, but one can easily walk between several popular spots.
  • Late-Night Entertainment: Open-air bars on the beach, discos, and certain restaurants remain open late, presenting options for late-night socializing and enjoyment.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Safari Beach Hotel

Known for its lively discotheque, often drawing a mixed crowd of tourists and locals.

Other Local Clubs

Other smaller clubs and bars are found along Diani Beach Road, with various music styles for dancing.

Beach Parties

Occasionally, beach parties occur, especially during peak season or holidays. Inquire locally for schedules.

Lively Bars

Enjoy cocktails and the sea views at various beachfront bars, many featuring happy hour specials.

Relaxed Evenings

For a quieter evening, many resorts offer relaxed lounges or poolside bars with ambient music.

Beach Bonfires

Some establishments or private villas can arrange beach bonfires for an unique twilight setting under the stars.

Nightlife Safety

Always exercise caution when out at night. Utilize reputable taxis or ride services for transportation, especially if consuming alcohol. Avoid walking alone on secluded roads or beaches after dark.

Shopping & Markets

Bargaining is often part of the experience in Diani's diverse shopping landscape.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Traditional Markets: Ukunda Market, the largest local market near Diani, features fresh produce, spices, textiles, and household goods. Smaller fruit and souvenir stalls line Diani Beach Road, suitable for quick purchases.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Many shops along Diani Beach Road feature locally made wood carvings (Makonde and Akamba styles), batik fabrics, paintings, jewelry, and Maasai crafts. Observe workshops where artisans work.
  • Luxury and Boutique Shopping: Luxury and boutique shopping options are limited in Diani. Some higher-end resorts may have small boutiques featuring select items.

Souvenirs & Ethical Guidelines

Souvenir Recommendations

Hand-carved wooden animals or masks are suitable keepsakes. Maasai beadwork and "shukas" (blankets) are genuine items. Kikoy fabric, a traditional East African wrap, is colorful and practical. Spices offer a taste of the region. Kenyan coffee plus tea are fine choices for gifts.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Buy directly from artisans or reputable shops where your money benefits producers. Caution regarding illegal wildlife products. Refrain from purchasing these. Bargaining in markets is common, but do so respectfully.

Shipping & Customs

Most shops do not offer international shipping. Arrangement would be necessary via a courier service, generally from Mombasa or Nairobi. Awareness of customs regulations for your home country is vital for items like wood carvings or animal products.

Carved Souvenirs

  • Hand-carved wooden animals.
  • Makonde and Akamba style masks.
  • Ensure they are legally sourced.

Maasai Crafts

  • Maasai beadwork.
  • Traditional "shukas" (blankets).
  • Support Maasai women's cooperatives.

Local Fabrics

  • Colorful Kikoy fabric wraps.
  • Batik fabrics with unique designs.
  • Lightweight and easy to pack.

Bargaining & Payment Tips

Bargaining Etiquette
  • Bargaining is expected in local markets; start with a polite smile.
  • Aim for a fair price for both you and the vendor.
  • Keep interactions friendly and light-hearted.
Payment Methods
  • Cash (Kenyan Shillings) is preferred at markets and small shops.
  • Credit cards are accepted at larger shops and resorts.
  • M-Pesa (mobile money) is widely used by locals but requires a local SIM.

Shop Responsibly

Support local artisans directly to ensure your purchases contribute to the community's well-being. Be mindful of wildlife regulations.

Activity Planning Summary

Highlights of Diani Activities

  • Thrilling water sports like kitesurfing and scuba diving.
  • Cultural experiences through cooking classes and local village visits.
  • Relaxation at world-class spas and peaceful beach settings.
  • Unique local chances for shopping with artisan crafts.

Tips for Activity Planning

  • Book popular activities like safaris and skydiving in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Consider the typical weather for that time of year for aquatic activities (wind seasons) and land excursions.
  • Utilize local tour operators or your resort concierge for convenient arrangements.
  • Engage with community-based tourism for authentic and supportive experiences.
Things to Do in Diani Beach. Activities, Experiences, Adventures