Nyali Beach holidays

Holidays to Nyali Beach aren't just about relaxing on a tropical beach and snorkelling among multi-coloured reefs. They let you get as close as you dare to the Big 5.

Upmarket neighbourhood

Head north from Mombasa and the well-to-do suburb of Nyali Beach is the first place you hit. The European missionaries got their first foothold here in the mid-19th century. Now, there are more private villas and hotels standing aloof in landscaped gardens than there are Victorian churches. And people come for the sun-bleached sandy coast and pastel coral reefs, with Mombasa’s shops and restaurants close at hand.

One of Kenya’s best beaches

A white ribbon of sand framed by slender palms is what you’ll get at Nyali Beach. Up the tempo and choose from a roll call of watersports, or pick a quiet spot of your own. The only distractions will be camels trundling past and huddles of local Maasai people with elaborately beaded ear lobes.

Things to do in Nyali Beach

Nyali’s hotels rub shoulders with consulates and grand villas. You’ll find their affluent residents practising their swing at Nyali Golf and Country Club. It’s a challenging championship course – you can tee off on one of the fastest greens in Kenya. And just across the road is the Mamba Crocodile Village, home to hundreds of the reptiles, from just-hatched to big daddies.

Safari at Shimba Hills

As for what’s nearby, you can dive and snorkel to your heart’s content at Mombasa Marine Park, a 15-minute drive away. And game viewing at Shimba Hills National Reserve is a 45-minute drive inland. Keep your eyes peeled for zebras, giraffes and big cats roaming among the giant 1,000-year-old trees – you may even catch a glimpse of the rare sable antelope.