Hotels in Diani Beach

Serenity Awaits: Unveil the Hidden Paradise of Diani Beach

Discover the paradise of Diani Beach in Kwale County, Kenya—a stunning coastal gem on the south coast that offers an unforgettable escape. With its powdery white sands and azure waters, this beach resort is perfect for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. Explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling, relax in luxurious beachfront accommodations, or embark on a thrilling safari in nearby Shimba Hills. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance at Tiwi and Galu Beaches, and immerse yourself in the rich local culture. Whether you're seeking romance, adventure, or relaxation, Diani Beach promises an idyllic getaway that captivates every traveler’s heart. For the best hotel rates in Diani Beach and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Diani Beach

Some of the best places to stay in Diani Beach are Nyali, Galu Beach and Old Town Mombasa. Diani Beach is a fantastic vacation spot, and nearby areas like Nyali, Galu Beach, and Old Town Mombasa each offer unique experiences. Nyali is known for its vibrant nightlife and upscale hotels, while Galu Beach is serene and perfect for relaxation. Old Town Mombasa boasts rich history and culture. For first-time visitors, Old Town Mombasa is ideal for exploring local heritage. Accommodation options range from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses, providing something for every traveler’s taste and budget. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Diani Beach:

1. NyaliOpens in a new window: Nyali is a vibrant coastal area known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to various attractions such as Nyali Beach, Bamburi Beach, and Mombasa Marine National Park. This location is perfect for beach lovers and families, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. Top hotels in Nyali include PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa MombasaOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel featuring direct beach access, business amenities, and family-friendly services like a water park and supervised childcare. Cocoa Boutique HotelOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, a 4.5-star hotel with a 24-hour business center and beachfront access. For adventure seekers, Voyager Beach ResortOpens in a new window offers a range of water sports and recreational activities, making it an ideal family resort.
2. Galu BeachOpens in a new window: Galu Beach is renowned for its stunning shoreline and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway. With nearby attractions like Diani Beach and Diani - Chale Marine National Park, it’s a haven for beach and adventure enthusiasts. Nomad Beach ResortOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5-star hotel that provides direct access to the beach and offers various adventure sports. For a more upscale experience, Swahili BeachOpens in a new window is a 5-star hotel known for its luxury accommodations. Alternatively, Swahili Beach ResortOpens in a new window combines business and leisure with direct beach access and family amenities, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
3. Old Town MombasaOpens in a new window: Old Town Mombasa is rich in culture, featuring historical sites like Fort Jesus and vibrant markets. This area is great for travelers interested in culture and history, providing a unique local experience. Hotel English Point Marina & SpaOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel with a full spa and business amenities, perfect for those looking to relax after exploring. Lions Bluff LodgeOpens in a new window offers complimentary breakfast and a comfortable stay, while Tijara BeachOpens in a new window features direct beach access and business facilities, catering to both leisure and corporate guests.

Things to do in Diani Beach for first time

Diani Beach is a stunning getaway where pristine beaches meet lush hills and vibrant coral reefs. Spend three days enjoying activities like swimming, boating, and diving in crystal-clear waters, alongside thrilling safaris in nearby parks. This tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Diani Beach:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Tiwi Beach, a serene stretch of white sand perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. After enjoying the tranquil waters, make your way to the Holy Ghost Cathedral, where you can appreciate the stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Finally, visit the iconic Two Tusks, a unique landmark that offers great photo opportunities and a glimpse into the local culture.
• Day 2: Start your day at Mombasa Marine National Park, where you can explore the beautiful coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Consider snorkeling or taking a glass-bottom boat ride for an unforgettable experience. Next, visit the Shree Cutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple, known for its intricate design and peaceful surroundings. Conclude your day at Leven House, a charming spot for dinner where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine while taking in the stunning views.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Nyali Beach, where the golden sands and inviting waves create the perfect beach atmosphere. After some relaxation, head to Bamburi Beach, another lovely location that offers water sports and vibrant beach activities. Wrap up your day with a visit to Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can delve into the rich history of the area and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

5 tips to find a great Diani Beach hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For a budget-friendly getaway, the best times to visit Diani Beach are February, October, and November, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you’re traveling from abroad, aim to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure great value for money. To fully enjoy the main attractions, such as the beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs, a stay of at least 4-5 days is recommended. This way, you can make the most of your experience without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Diani Beach, you're in luck! Hotels.com often features great discounts that you may discover just before your travel date. To maximize your chances of finding a bargain, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the website. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you save on your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on your hotel expenses in Diani Beach.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Diani Beach is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations a bit farther from the city center, you can utilize transportation options like a car or taxi to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Diani Beach and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Diani Beach

Here are some popular dishes in Diani Beach, Kwale County, Kenya:

• Swahili Biryani: This fragrant rice dish is layered with spiced meat, often chicken or goat, cooked with aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. It showcases the rich culinary history of the Swahili coast and is typically served during special occasions and gatherings, making it a must-try in Diani.
• Grilled Fish (Samaki wa Kupaka): Freshly caught fish marinated in coconut milk and spices, then grilled to perfection. This dish reflects the coastal influence of Swahili cuisine, and you can often find it served with a side of ugali or rice, best enjoyed at local beachside restaurants.
• Seafood Skewers: A popular street food, these skewers feature a variety of marinated seafood like prawns and calamari, grilled over open flames. They embody the spontaneous and vibrant spirit of Diani’s culinary scene, perfect for a casual beachside bite.

Best time to go to Diani Beach

Diani Beach experiences its lowest average temperatures in July and August, at 76.5°F (24.7°C), while March is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Diani Beach, January, March, and April are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, June, and August are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.