Kenya’s 5 Best Coastal Escapes for Families
Dreaming of a holiday that keeps kids entertained while giving you time to relax?
Kenya’s beaches, towns, and nearby safari parks tick every box for a family escape.
When people think of Kenya, safaris usually spring to mind. But beyond the savannah lies a coastline that’s just as extraordinary – calm turquoise waters, sandy beaches perfect for sandcastles, and cultural treasures waiting to be explored. For families, Kenya’s coast is the ultimate playground, offering both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
At Thompsons, we’ve tried and tested a wide range of accommodation – so we can recommend options to suit your budget and preferences. Whether you’re planning a quick break or a longer Kenya family holiday, here are our top five coastal escapes you won’t want to miss.
4 Key Takeouts for Families
- Safe Swimming and Family Fun: Diani Beach and Watamu are perfect for calm waters and child-friendly activities.
- Culture Meets the Coast: Explore Mombasa’s history, Malindi’s Swahili heritage, and Lamu’s timeless island life.
- Safari & Sea in One Trip: Combine Tsavo National Park with Malindi for the ultimate family safari and beach holiday in Kenya.
- Tried-and-Tested Resorts: Thompsons offers handpicked accommodation options, tailored to your needs and budget.
1. Diani Beach: Sun, Smiles, and Sandcastles
Families are drawn to Diani for its wide, powdery beach and calm lagoon-like waters. It’s easy to fall in love with Diani’s sunset shores – golden skies in the evening, safe swimming during the day, and resorts designed with kids in mind.
So, can you swim in Diani Beach, Kenya? Absolutely! Protected by a coral reef, the waters here are calm and safe, perfect for little ones splashing around. Families can hop aboard glass-bottom boats, go on camel rides along the shoreline, or relax at all-inclusive Diani Beach hotels where meals and entertainment are taken care of.
What is Diani Beach famous for? Beyond its beauty, Diani is known for breathtaking sunsets and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
2. Mombasa North Coast: Dive into Culture, Swim in Paradise
Mombasa is the perfect blend of cultural history and beach fun. Families can spend the morning exploring Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the afternoon swimming in the warm Indian Ocean. Bustling spice markets and Swahili street food add to the adventure, giving kids a sensory experience they won’t forget.
3. Watamu: Let the Tide Take You
Watamu is a smaller, quieter escape, perfect for families who love nature. The promise to let the tide take you to Watamu rings true – you’ll find shallow tide pools teeming with sea creatures, calm beaches for paddling, and the famous Watamu Marine National Park for snorkelling and boat rides.
Which is better, Watamu or Diani? It depends on your family. Diani is larger, busier, and filled with resort activities. Watamu is slower-paced, with a focus on marine adventures and close-to-nature experiences.
4. Malindi: Sun, Sand, and Swahili Soul
Malindi blends sun, sand, and Swahili soul into a family-friendly escape. Explore historic mosques, browse local markets, and unwind at Diamonds Malindi, a resort that keeps both kids and parents happy.
At Diamonds Malindi, parents can recharge at one of the largest spas on the north coast, recently revamped with world-class treatments, while children enjoy supervised activities. For something different, head 30 minutes out to Hell’s Kitchen, a dramatic sandstone canyon that shifts colours with the light – a truly unique family trip.
Why is Malindi famous? For its Swahili heritage, vibrant town, and long tradition of welcoming visitors. It’s a destination where culture, relaxation, and adventure meet.
Did you know? Our Kenya holiday package includes a few nights in Tsavo National Park, just 1.5 hours away – making it easy to pair safari adventure with coastal relaxation.
5. Lamu: Discover Kenya’s Coastal Soul
Further north, you’ll discover Lamu, Kenya’s coastal soul. This car-free island is unlike anywhere else, with winding alleyways, donkey carts instead of cars, and dhows gliding gracefully across the water. Families can take dhow trips, enjoy fresh seafood, and wander through history in a town that feels almost frozen in time.
It’s a slower, more peaceful kind of holiday – perfect for families wanting something different.
FAQs About Kenya Holidays
Is Kenya a good holiday destination?
Yes. It’s one of the few places where you can combine world-class safaris with stunning beaches and cultural exploration.
Is Kenya safe for tourists right now?
Yes. Tourist areas along the coast and safari parks are safe and welcoming, with resorts and guides prioritising visitor safety.
What is the best month to go to Kenya?
June to October (the dry season) is the best time for both safaris and beach holidays.
Is Kenya cheap for a holiday?
It really depends on your budget. Tell us what you’d like to spend, and we’ll match you with the best accommodation and Kenya travel package – from affordable family stays to luxury lodges.
How many days is enough in Kenya?
7–10 days is ideal for combining a safari with a beach stay.
Is Kenya good for family holidays?
Absolutely. Kenya’s coast, especially places like Diani and Malindi, offers plenty of kid-friendly experiences.
Why Book with Thompsons
From Diani’s sunset shores to Malindi’s Swahili charm, Kenya’s coastline is filled with adventures for families. Whether you want a safari-and-sea combination or an all-inclusive Diani Beach holiday, Thompsons has the expertise to tailor your trip.
Our team knows Kenya inside out, and we’ll answer your questions – big or small – to make sure your family has the perfect Kenya holiday package.
Ready to discover Kenya’s coastal soul? Book your family holiday with Thompsons today.
