Kilifi Creek is a beautiful creek opening off the Indian Ocean north of Mombasa. Geologically, it is a drowned valley, which came into being relatively recently in Kenya’s geological past. Stretching inland for 15kms it is 58kms north of Mombasa and is an ancient Swahili town set on pure sandy beaches. High cliffs line the entrance to this natural deep-water harbour, which can be accessed only through a break in the reef. A yachting area, the creek is fringed by gracious Mediterranean-style houses, which step down the cliffs overlooking the ocean-going yachts harboured below. An area of unspoilt tranquillity much favoured by the sailing community, Kilifi Creek was bridged in 1991 by the Japanese. Today it serves as a natural water sports area with windsurfing, water-skiing powerboat racing and sailing. Just beyond the town lies the Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve. 

Mnarani Ruins 

Just south of Kilifi creek the remains of a 15th century Swahili settlement including a magnificent pillar tomb and Friday mosque. 

The North Coast

The Kenyan coast is roughly divided into ‘North and ‘South’ of the island city of Mombasa. To reach the south coast, it is necessary to cross from the island of Mombasa via the Likoni Ferry (10 minutes) to the start of the south coast beaches. The link to the north coast is via the Nyali Bridge, which leads from the island (via the suburb of Nyali) to the north coast. The north coast features features:

Nyali Beach, Kenyatta and Bamburi Beaches, Shanzu beach, Kilifi and Watamu

Climate

Coastal temperatures average 28 centigrade tempered by the monsoon winds (the southeast monsoon, the Kaskazi blows from April to October, while the northeast monsoon, the Kazi blows from November to March – a daily average of eight hours of sunshine.