The coast near Diani Beach offers marine excursions that show you Kenya's underwater life. These trips take you to protected marine parks and nearby islands.

Kisite-Mpunguti Details: You'll drive 1.5 hours south to Shimoni village, then board a traditional dhow or motorboat. The marine park has clear waters and healthy coral formations. Green and hawksbill turtles swim through the reefs. Moray eels hide in coral crevices. You'll see parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. Spinner and bottlenose dolphins often play near the boats.

Wasini Island: Your trip includes fresh seafood lunch on Wasini Island. The catch includes fish, octopus, crab, and lobster cooked with coconut and spices. Walk through the village after eating to see fossilized coral gardens and learn traditional fishing methods from locals.

Best Time: November-March offers the calmest seas. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, an underwater camera, and a light jacket for the boat ride.

Mombasa sits one hour from Diani Beach by ferry and road. The city shows centuries of Arab, Portuguese, British, and Indian influence through its buildings and markets.

Fort Jesus: Built by Portuguese in 1593, this fort survived multiple sieges between Portuguese forces, Omani Arabs, and Swahili rulers. The museum inside shows pottery, weapons, and artifacts from shipwrecks. Climb the ramparts for harbor views. The fort is closed on Sundays and opens 8am-6pm other days.

Old Town Streets: Walk through narrow lanes with carved wooden doors showing Swahili, Arab, and Indian design. Mandhry Mosque has stood since the 1570s. Watch craftspeople make traditional furniture and jewelry in local workshops. Dress modestly when visiting mosques and old town areas.

Food to Try: Sample biryani, pilau, samosas, and freshly squeezed sugar cane juice at Old Town restaurants.

Full Day Tour Cost: $60-100 per person with transport, guide, and lunch included.

Shimba Hills sits one hour from Diani Beach. This coastal rainforest rises 450 meters above sea level. The thick vegetation differs from typical savanna parks.

Wildlife: Shimba Hills is Kenya's only reliable spot for sable antelope. These endangered animals have curved horns. You'll also see elephants, buffalo, giraffes, waterbuck, and bushbuck. Over 250 bird species live here, including rare coastal types.

Sheldrick Falls: The waterfall drops 25 meters into a forest pool. The 30-minute hike down takes you through coastal forest where colobus monkeys and butterflies appear. You can swim in the pool at the base. The hills give you views across the coastal plain to the Indian Ocean.

What to Bring: Binoculars, zoom camera, hiking shoes for the falls, bug spray. Morning drives work best for spotting active animals.

Diani Beach has conservation sites that protect local wildlife and forests. These spots work well for shorter visits.

• Colobus Conservation Centre: This rescue facility protects endangered Angolan colobus monkeys. Take a guided walk along the nature trail to meet a wild colobus troop. You'll also see vervets, sykes, and baboons. The center shows you ongoing conservation work and rehabilitation programs. Tours take 1-2 hours.
• Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest: This UNESCO Heritage site is sacred to the Digo people. Guided tours through the ancient coastal forest teach you about traditional practices and beliefs of the local community. You'll see the forest's role in coastal culture and ecology.

Diani Beach offers water sports beyond snorkeling. You can try different activities based on your skill level.

• Timing: Start excursions early to beat midday heat and see active wildlife. Morning game drives work best for animal viewing.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen (SPF 30+), hat, and sunglasses. The equatorial sun is strong even on cloudy days.
• Hydration: Carry bottled water on all trips. The climate is warm year-round.
• Clothing: Wear light-colored, breathable clothes for safaris. Bring a light jacket for early morning game drives and boat rides.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly at cultural sites and villages. Ask permission before photographing people.
• Support Local Communities: Buy authentic handicrafts from local artisans. Tip guides appropriately for their service.
• Travel Insurance: Get coverage that includes water activities and safari excursions.

High Season: June to October and December to March bring more visitors. Book excursions in advance during these months. Visit popular sites on weekday mornings to avoid crowds.

Low Season: April, May, and November see fewer tourists and lower prices. Short afternoon rains can occur during these months but don't usually affect full-day trips.

Group vs Private: Group tours cost $60-150 per person for most excursions. Private tours run $200-400+ depending on group size and destination. Private options let you set your own pace and focus on your interests.