BEST TIME TO VISIT KENYA’S BEACHES

March 7, 2025

I’ve always believed that the timing of a trip can make or break the experience. If you’re planning a Kenya beach holiday, knowing when to
go is as important as choosing the perfect beach. Kenya’s coastline is a tropical paradise, home to breath-taking beaches like Diani, Watamu, and
Nyali. Whether you’re after crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, or vibrant marine life, this stretch of the Indian Ocean has something for everyone.

But when is the best time to visit?
The answer depends on the weather, crowds, and activities you have in mind. Kenya has two dry and two rainy seasons, each affecting the beach experience differently. The short rainy season starts in October and lasts until December, bringing occasional showers, while the long rainy season (March to May) can disrupt outdoor plans.
On the other hand, the dry months offer perfect beach weather, making them the best time for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best times to visit the Kenyan coast based on weather, peak seasons, and activities—so you can plan the perfect trip, whether you’re looking for a lively beach scene or a quiet escape.

Overview of Kenya’s Beach Climate
Kenya’s coastline enjoys a tropical climate with warm weather all year round.
Temperatures usually range between 75°F and 90°F (24°C to 32°C), making it a paradise for beach lovers. However, humidity levels vary, with the wet season feeling more humid than the dry months.

There are two main seasons: dry and rainy.
The dry seasons (January–March and June–October) bring sunny skies, making them the best time for a Kenya beach holiday.
These months also coincide with the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, giving travellers a chance to combine a safari with a beach trip.

The short rainy season starts in October and lasts until December, with light showers that usually don’t last all day. The long rainy season (March-May) brings heavier rainfall, making it the least popular time for beach activities. Understanding these weather patterns will help you
plan the perfect getaway based on your preferences for sunshine, crowds, and activities.

Best Time to Visit Kenya’s Beaches
The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal times to go, based on weather, activities, and crowd levels.
Dry Season (Best Time) – December to March & June to October
I always recommend visiting during the dry seasons if you want the best beach experience.
The skies are clear, the ocean is calm, and it’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
If you love marine life, this is also the best time for snorkelling and diving. The water visibility is excellent, making it easy to explore coral reefs and spot dolphins and sea turtles. Since this is peak tourist season, expect lively beaches, a bustling atmosphere, and higher prices on
accommodations and activities.

Shoulder Season – April, May, and November
The shoulder season brings some rainfall, but the showers are usually brief, leaving plenty of sunshine in between. This is a great time if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices on hotels and tours.
If you’re combining your Kenya beach holiday with a Kenya safari, this can be a perfect time to visit Amboseli National Park, where you can enjoy wildlife viewing without the high-season rush. You might even get to see animals gather around watering holes in a more relaxed setting.

Rainy Season (Least Ideal) – April to June
The long rainy season from April to June brings heavy downpours that can disrupt beach activities. Roads may become muddy, and the ocean is often rough, making water sports challenging.
That said, if you’re looking for a peaceful, budget-friendly escape, this is the best time to go.
Resorts and hotels slash their prices, and the beaches are almost empty. If you’re also interested in a safari, this is when Amboseli National Park is lush and green, offering great wildlife viewing with fewer tourists.

Best Time Based on Activities
If you have a specific activity in mind, here’s the best time to visit based on what you want to do.
● Snorkelling & Diving – The dry seasons are best when the water is clear and calm.
Diani Beach and Watamu have excellent visibility, allowing you to explore coral reefs and spot turtles, dolphins, and colourful fish.
● Kite Surfing & Water Sports – Visit between June and September, when strong winds create perfect conditions for windsurfing and kite surfing.
● Wildlife & Beach Combo – If you’re planning to mix a Kenya safari with your beach trip, June to October is the best time. The Great Migration is happening in the Maasai Mara, and migratory herds move through the region, offering incredible safari experiences before heading to the coast.
● Festivals & Events – December is perfect if you love vibrant beach parties. Christmas and New Year bring music festivals, lively nightlife, and celebrations across the coast.
While there are occasional rain showers, they don’t usually last long.

Conclusion
The best time for a Kenya beach holiday depends on what you want to experience. If you’re looking for sunshine and perfect beach weather, visit during the dry seasons (December–March and June–October).

If you want to combine your trip with a Kenya safari, June to October is ideal, as migratory herds move through the Maasai Mara, and animals gather around watering holes.

The long rainy season (April–June) is the least ideal time for beach activities but can be great for budget travellers looking for seclusion and discounts.