lamu, diani, or watamu: which kenyan coast spot is best?
I’ve been dreaming about a trip to the Kenyan coast this August, and now I’m stuck choosing between Lamu, Diani, and Watamu. I keep hearing that Lamu is the place to go if you want that real, authentic vibe—think winding old streets, donkeys instead of cars, and sunsets that look like they’re straight out of a painting. But then I read that it’s not really the spot if you’re into water sports, which is a bit of a letdown because I was hoping to try diving and maybe even catch a glimpse of dolphins.
Now, Diani seems a lot easier to get to from Nairobi—there’s even a direct flight or you can hop on the train to Mombasa. But here’s the thing: I keep coming across stories about beach boys being a bit too persistent, and honestly, I’m not sure I want to spend my vacation dodging sales pitches every time I step onto the sand. Has anyone else dealt with this? Did it ruin the experience, or is it just something you get used to?
Watamu is still on my list, but I don’t know much about it. I want somewhere peaceful but not boring, with good food and maybe a chance to try kitesurfing. If you’ve been to any of these places, what would you recommend for someone who wants both adventure and a bit of local flavor? And if you’ve had any awkward run-ins with beach vendors, how did you handle it? I’d love to hear your stories—especially if you found a way to enjoy the coast without feeling hassled every five minutes.
Honestly, I just want to find that sweet spot between relaxing and exploring, without feeling like I picked the wrong beach. Anyone else ever felt this way when planning a trip?
#kenyancoast #travelquestions #lamu #diani #watamu #Travel
