When you think of Kenya you think of lions, elephants and zebras. But although Kenya is well known for its safaris it has some spectacular beaches too.

The coast of Kenya is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Soft sand lapped by azure blue waters and fringed by palm trees is the order of the day. Hemming some of the beaches are tropical rainforests alive with fauna and flora, monkeys and possibly a leopard or two, the experience is unique.

Both the south coast and the north coast of Kenya boast such beaches but it’s not until you take a trip under the water that you see how much life teems beneath. Somewhat like an underwater safari, you will be amazed at the sheer abundance of life down here; coral reefs, fish, turtles and even dolphins.

The small town of Malindi is located on a beautiful stretch of beaches and plays host to a myriad of hotels ranging from the luxurious to the hideaway boutique. Nearby, the small village of Watamu is also famed for its beaches but also its National Marine Park.

If you want to get away from the beach for a day, try a trip to nearby Nyari, also known as hell’s kitchen. According to folklore, there was once a small village, that was told a miracle was coming and that all villagers should leave. All but one left – and that remaining person and the village disappeared forever. In its place gullies and gorges of sandstone now stand. Carved out of the earth by the wind and ranging in colour from off whites and pinks to deep crimsons they truly are a remarkable sight to behold.

The south coast of Kenya is split by the wide mouth of Kilifi Creek. With white sand beaches and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, you would be hard-pressed to find somewhere more beautiful. Kilifi Creek also holds an underwater secret: deep caves, 20 metres from the surface, these house eels, barracudas and grouper fish. To exit the caves you swim up a tunnel into the reef above. It’s an amazing experience.

If all this diving sounds a little bit like hard work, take a trip to Lamu. A quiet island without cars or trucks, on Lamu donkey and dhow are the only transportation available. The island is surrounded by idyllic beaches with powder sands warmed by the sun into a soft carpet underfoot.

Whether you combine Kenya’s 300 miles of beaches with a safari or just go for the sheer beauty of the beach, Kenya holidays are pure perfection.

For more information on visiting Kenya visit the Kuoni website: http://www.kuoni.co.uk/holiday/africa_and_indian_ocean/kenya/

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