Despite being largely overlooked by the diving masses, Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline boasts a remarkably diverse and well-preserved marine environment. Spanning more than 1,400 kilometres, this stretch of East African shoreline is home to an impressive array of protected areas, including four designated Marine National Parks and six Marine Reserves.
The reefs that lie within these protected areas are in wonderful condition, with healthy corals that provide a habitat for an astounding diversity of fish and other fascinating creatures. Divers can also expect to encounter an array of larger pelagic species, such as the whale shark (during the seasonal migrations), manta rays and sea turtles, not to mention playful dolphins and reef sharks patrolling the depths.
Wreck diving enthusiasts will delight in exploring the purpose-sunk MV Dania, which sits upright between 12-32 metres, its hull now swarming with marine life. For the adventurous, the Vuma Caverns presents an exciting diving opportunity, allowing advanced explorers to venture into a network of shallow caves to catch a glimpse of large predatory fish. The macro life in Kenya is also impressive, including a dizzying array of nudibranchs.
In this article, we’ll highlight three of the best places to dive in Kenya, as well as eco-friendly accommodation on the nearby shores. Whether you’re after a quintessential beach resort experience or an affordable eco-lodge, there are Kenya dive hotels to suit a diverse range of budgets.
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Watamu Marine National Park
Located around 150 kilometres north of Mombasa, this marine park was established in 1968 as a pioneering protected area for the ocean environment. It’s now considered one of the country’s best-managed conservation areas, home to over 600 species of fish, 110 species of stony coral and countless other invertebrates, crustaceans and molluscs.
At the heart of this thriving ecosystem are the park's magnificent coral reefs, which form the physical and biological foundation for the area. They provide a rich source of nutrients to sustain the remarkably diverse fish populations, as well as manta rays, octopuses and whale sharks.
Perhaps the park's most celebrated residents are the various species of sea turtles that call Watamu home, including the endangered green, hawksbill and olive ridley turtles. Thanks to a dedicated turtle watch program, the park's beaches have been secured as a 99% viable nesting site, allowing for easy monitoring and protection.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Watamu Marine National Park stands as a shining example of Kenya's commitment to preserving the wonders of its marine environments for generations to come.
Eco-friendly hotels in Watamu
Describing itself as a “bubble eco-lodge”, this highly rated Watamu resort features a collection of beautifully appointed bandas, suites and glamping tents where you can sleep beneath the African night sky. It’s completely immersed in nature on the banks of Mida Creek and with a panoramic restaurant that serves globally-inspired fusion cuisine.
“It’s a paradise in a paradise.” - Valerio (read more reviews here)
While it’s not located directly on the beach, this sustainable accommodation in Watamu is just a short tuk-tuk ride from all the action. Its breezy rooms centre around a sparkling swimming pool and the onsite restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine. Not only do these eco villas offer affordable accommodation in Watamu but guests rave about the hospitality from the owner, Agnes.
“This is honestly one of the best places I've ever stayed, I didn't want to leave!” - Nick (read more reviews here)
Best places to dive in Kenya
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Reserve
In the remote southern reaches of Kenya (near the Tanzanian border), the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Reserve encompasses 39 square kilometres of coral reefs, small islands and crystalline waters. Divers and snorkellers who venture into this underwater paradise are treated to an explosion of colours and a fantastic abundance of sea creatures.
Over 40 species of coral provide a foundation, while more than 250 different types of reef fish dart and dance through the warm currents. Schools of triggerfish, angelfish and parrotfish mingle with moray eels, groupers and the graceful undulations of rays and turtles. Dolphins regularly glide through the shallows in large, sociable pods, while the seasonal arrival of humpback whales and whale sharks offers the chance to spot some of the ocean's most awe-inspiring giants.
Above the waterline, the reserve's small islands host nesting colonies of seabirds, adding to the allure of this wildlife-rich area. It’s understandable why Kisite-Mpunguti is considered one of East Africa’s coastal treasures and an easily accessible destination from the beach resort of Diani (30 kilometres south of Mombasa).
Eco-friendly hotels in Diani
With its private island setting, this sustainably-run resort near Diani offers an upmarket stay for eco-conscious travellers. Its overwater suites and bandas boast magnificent views across the Indian Ocean and are notable for their Swahili-inspired design and traditional fabrics. When you’re not out diving the surrounding reefs with the team at Diving the Crab, you can learn about the resort’s role in protecting sea turtles and colobus monkeys at the Marine Centre.
"Something special to experience when vacationing in Diani Beach, even for non-resorty types.” - Yousuf (read more reviews here)
Diving the Crab (one of Kenya’s top dive operators) also has a centre at this award-winning boutique resort, which enjoys an absolute beachfront setting in Diani. It has long been recognised for its commitment to sustainable practices and helping to protect the natural environment of Kenya’s south coast. Staying in one of their beach cottages or suites helps support the vital work of the Diani Turtle Project.
"A dream stay in Paradise!” - Ene (read more reviews here)
Home to a 5-Star Padi diving centre, this village-inspired accommodation offers clean and comfortable accommodation for divers and non-divers alike, all just steps from the beach. There are rooms to suit all budgets, from comfortable safari tents to beautifully appointed villas. Aside from offering daily dive trips to explore the nearby reefs and wrecks, they can arrange mountain climbing expeditions, safari tours and kitesurfing/windsurfing trips.
"Amazing place right at the beach.” - Ahmad (read more reviews here)
Best places to dive in Kenya
Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve
Situated just north of Mombasa, this protected marine area is renowned among scuba divers and snorkellers for its impressive coral formations and the incredible diversity of species that call this ecosystem home. The park's large coral heads provide the perfect habitat for a stunning variety of nudibranchs and opisthobranchs - some of which are incredibly rare and with colour patterns found nowhere else on Earth.
Venturing to the outer reefs reveals a dramatic underwater landscape of shelves and overhangs, and it's here that you'll find the legendary Vuma Cave. Within its inky darkness, you’ll discover eels, barracuda and groupers weighing up to 300 kilograms, not to mention two exhilarating swim-throughs.
Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve is an oasis of biodiversity, home to a dazzling array of crabs, starfish and stonefish, as well as sea cucumbers and sea urchins. Above the waves, the reserve also provides critical habitat for migratory birds like the crab plover, which journeys to the Arabian Sea to breed.
Eco-friendly hotels in Mombasa
Located north of Mombasa in the town of Kilifi, this highly-rated ecolodge and backpackers is a firm favourite amongst travellers due to its friendly staff and affordability. You can select from one of their private bandas or dorms and take advantage of the onsite pool and restaurant serving locally sourced fare. Not only is Distant Relatives a digital nomad-friendly hotel but it has been designed as an experimental model of environmentally and socially conscious living.
“Kilifi is a great alternative to Diani Beach, for those looking for a coastal experience that’s more friendly and less resort-y!” - Shari (read more reviews here)
Eclectically designed, this eco-friendly Mombasa resort sits directly on the sands of Shanzu, offering easy access to the dive sites of Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve. It’s a family-friendly option due to its abundance of recreational activities, and it boasts three restaurants with something to appeal to all tastes. Sustainability is at the forefront of Serene Beach Resort & Spa’s operations, with the aim of reducing the ecological footprint of the property to an absolute minimum.
"Lovely hotel right on the beach.” - Margot (read more reviews here)
Best places to dive in Kenya
Best time to dive in Kenya
While scuba diving in Kenya is a year-round activity, it’s important to note that during the July-August period, the visibility may be slightly reduced due to the increased winds. For the best diving conditions, October to February is generally considered the optimal time to visit, when the waters are calm and clear. The water temperatures in this tropical paradise range from a comfortable 23 degrees Celsius to around 28 degrees Celsius, with the coolest periods typically occurring from June through September. For most divers, a 3mm wetsuit provides adequate thermal protection.
FAQs about diving in Kenya
Does Kenya have good scuba diving?
Lapped by the waters of the Indian Ocean, Kenya is a memorable destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. It’s fringed by a barrier reef that stretches from the northern reaches of the country all the way down into Tanzania, much of which is protected within marine parks.
Kenya's scuba diving industry boomed in the 1980s and 1990s, drawing scores of divers eager to explore the region's underwater wonders. However, a devastating tsunami in the early 2000s, coupled with concerns over unrest, caused tourism to plummet.
It's only been in the last few years that travel warnings have finally been lifted, allowing Kenya's scuba diving industry to make a steady comeback. The lack of heavy traffic over the preceding decades has left the reefs in wonderful condition, making Kenya an ideal destination for a beach and bush safari.
When is the diving season in Kenya?
Scuba diving in Kenya can be enjoyed year-round, although the July to August period can see a slight dip in underwater visibility due to increased wind activity. The absolute best time to dive in Kenya is considered to be the October through February timeframe when the seas are at their calmest. Throughout the year, the water temperatures range from around 23 to 28 degrees Celsius, with most divers comfortable in a 3mm wetsuit.
Can you dive Kenya by liveaboard?
While there aren’t currently any scuba diving liveaboards servicing the Kenyan coast, the country more than makes up for it with the incredible array of luxury dive resorts dotting its shoreline. From the private island paradises situated near the Tanzania border to the stunning beach resorts of Diani, these accommodations cater perfectly to the needs of divers. Not only do they offer daily diving excursions, but they also provide all-inclusive meal packages and stunning ocean views. What really sets these Kenyan dive resorts apart is their strong commitment to environmental sustainability and marine conservation, making Kenya an ideal destination for an eco-conscious dive vacation.
What is there to see diving in Kenya?
With warm waters, uncrowded dive sites and an eco-conscious approach to tourism, Kenya is quickly re-establishing itself as one of the premier scuba diving destinations in East Africa. It’s home to an impressive diversity of marine life, with everything from nudibranchs and rhinopias to manta rays, mobulas and whale sharks spotted in the surrounding waters. Patrolling the reef edges are schools of cobias and jacks while a handful of wrecks have been transformed with colourful soft and hard corals.
How much experience do you need to dive in Kenya?
Kenya is a wonderful dive destination for all levels and popular with both seasoned divers and complete beginners alike. The diving experience in Kenya is remarkably effortless, with a lack of strong currents and exceptional visibility for much of the year. Kenya is a particularly popular choice for families seeking to introduce their children to the wonders of scuba, as well as adults taking their first diving steps.
Is Kenya good for a sustainable dive vacation?
With a long history of animal conservation and a great choice of eco-friendly resorts, Kenya is the perfect country for a sustainable dive vacation. Huge swathes of its barrier reef are protected with marine parks and there are numerous conservation organisations that partner with local communities to safeguard marine life. Alongside the tireless work of the Kenya Wildlife Service, these passionate groups are making a tangible difference to the health of the reefs.
Drawing on the country’s history of conservation, many of Kenya’s dive resorts have made a strong commitment to sustainability, ensuring their environmental footprint is kept to an absolute minimum. Some collaborate with conservation groups on coral restoration projects while others have incorporated renewable technologies and responsible waste management systems into their operations.
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