One of Kenya’s main attractions is the East Coast - largely because of the combination of historic, old towns and beautiful, long, sandy beaches with snorkelling in the coral reef. Miles upon miles of unspoiled palm fringed beaches, islands and towns that still reflect Kenya's rich cultural heritage present yet another facet of this amazing country. Whatever you want: diving, snorkelling, sun and surf, or a glimpse of the Swahili culture and the small fishing villages - you will find it on the coast of Kenya.

Most obviously, the beaches are the launch pad for one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world! They are rated in the top three by experienced divers, along with Australia's Barrier Reef and the Red Sea. You can do some spectacular dives, but even with snorkel and mask you can discover the underwater world. The three most spectacular zones, enclosed in marine national parks, are far to the south off Wasini Island, the area between Watamu and Malindi, and in the extreme north, off Kiwaiyu island.

Nearly everybody visiting Kenya arrives on the coast at Mombasa, Kenyas second large city. It is a tropical centre par excellence: steamy, lazy, at times unbelievable dilapidated, but genial. Mombasa is a colorful island town with a picturesque blend of ancient and modern buildings. The old town and its labyrinth of narrow twisting alleys display beautifully carved doors and Arab verandahs, bazaars with curios and antique shops. Fort Jesus, built in 1593 by the Portuguese to guard the entrance of the Old Dhow Harbor is the island's landmark. Today, the fort serves as a historical museum.
To the north and the south of Mombasa there are superb beaches and luxury 5 star hotels.

Both Malindi and Watamu are popular tourist resorts and have marine reserves and stunning beaches. The main highlight of Malindi is the Marine National Park which boasts an amazing variety of corals and colorful fish that can be admired trough glass bottomed boats or snorkeling among them.

The string of islands that runs up the coast - the main ones being Wasini, Funzi, chale, Mombasa itself, Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwaiyu - all are worth visiting. Apart from their beach and ocean attractions, most of them have some archaeological interest, which is also the constant theme of the mainland: the wholew coast is littered with the ruins of forts, mosques, tombs and even whole towns! With no cars, no roads, no running water or electricity, Wasini island has been left virtually untouched by the 20th century. Visits to the beautiful Kisite Marine National Park, are done by dhow.

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