North Coast

Kenya’s coast has two sections divided by Mombasa; the North coast and the South coast. The North Coast then starts at Nyali Beach, then to Mombasa Beach, Bamburi Beach and is from here intersected by the Mtwapa Creek and Maweni Beach. Continuing north you come to Kilifi where yet another creek breaks the coastline and allows ships to enter a natural harbour. Kilifi features a rich history shaped by early Indian Ocean trade, Swahili settlements, and Arab and Portuguese influences and this is where many british colonizers built summer house residencies to get away from Nairobi’s hustle and bustle.

If you travel further north you reach Watamu and Malindi and continuing further north you will finally reach the famous Lamu Island, which is located close to the border of Somalia.

Generally speaking, the beaches in North Coast are not as fine and beautiful as in South Coast (Diani). The coastline in the north is more rugged and varied. North of Malindi there are wide yellow sand dunes and this is where the Galana river meets the sea. Depending on the time of year, the wind and precipitation, the beaches around Malindi can be affected of this and sometimes the water has a brownish color.

Gedi Ruins and Lamu Island

Both Gedi Ruins, between Malindi and Watamu, and Lamu Island are home to some of the oldest Swahili settlements in East Africa.

Lamu Island became famous in the West during the 1970s and 1980s. It attracted visitors because of its peaceful atmosphere and relatively untouched character. This image also fitted well with the hippie movement of that period.

One reason for Lamu’s unique atmosphere is the absence of cars. The streets of Lamu Town are extremely narrow. Only people and donkeys can easily pass through many of them.

Lamu was founded in the 14th century and has been continuously inhabited for more than 700 years. The old town is considered one of the oldest and best preserved living Swahili settlements in East Africa.

The town is known for its coral stone buildings and traditional mangrove timber architecture. Its narrow unpaved streets add to its historic character. Lamu also has a rich cultural heritage and strong Swahili traditions.

Lamu Old Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Its historic buildings, traditional lifestyle and unique architecture make it one of the most interesting cultural destinations on the Kenyan coast.