The Kenyan coast, 480 km (300 miles) of palm-fringed shoreline, is a beach lover's paradise. Notwithstanding the throng of package tourists from Europe. Families in search of adventure and adrenaline have a variety of choice: kite sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and full or half-day excursions on a dhow. Shopaholics won't want to miss the narrow streets and bustling markets of Mombasa's 'Old Town'. And the coast of Kenya boasts several cultural pearls. Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest living Swahili settlement in Kenya. The 12th century ruins at Gede, near Watamu, are shrouded in mystery. Remote Paté Island is a great place to experience traditional Swahili life. What's more, Kenya's coast is conveniently connected to several of Kenya's top safari destinations.

The beach vacation destinations on the coast of Kenya are as diverse as the list is long. Kalifi, situated on a river estuary just north of Mombasa, is favored by the intellectual set, both local and international. To the south, Tiwi Beach is a favorite among the self-catering crowd. Diani Beach, near the border with Tanzania, is the place to head for family fun. A family beach vacation here is all about waterslides, banana boats, jet skis and kids clubs. Watamu is the preferred destination of active families, snorkelers and scuba divers as well as game fishing enthusiasts. Malindi, complete with high-end boutiques and galleries, is an Italian tourist enclave. While the Swahili restaurants should not be overlooked, this is the place to head if you are traveling with kids that can't live without pizza, pasta and gelato. Lamu and Shela are frequented by the extremes, backpackers and the well to do. The islands farther afield, such as Kiwayu, are ideal for families in search of a holiday in the liking of Robinson Crusoe.