Lagoons and powder – beach and villa holidays in Kenya

Diani Beach has its share of holiday crowds, but further south, smaller resorts offer a quieter family getaway

You go to Kenya for safaris, yes? That’s true, but it’s also a great beach destination says Solange Hando.

Wildlife, scenery, culture – Kenya has it all, but for families, nothing beats the lure of the beach. The coast is cooled by an almost constant breeze. It's fringed by lagoons and 240 km of coral reef. And much of it is deserted – what better place for a family villa holiday?

There's safe swimming and no sharks. Water temperature tops 30 degrees celsius. Marine parks and reserves protect myriad species – rewarding for snorkellers and divers whose permits help pay for the reserves’ upkeep. Even a short trip in a glass-bottom boat will delight everyone with shoals of brightly-coloured fish.

There are swaying palms, azure skies and sometimes the white sail of a dhow on the horizon – the south coast is the perfect picture postcard. In the early morning, fishermen drag their nets, knee deep in water. Weaver birds flash like gold through the trees.

There are quiet beaches and watersports, camel rides and dolphin safaris in the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park. You might spot a humpback whale in season or go for an eerie stroll through Wasini Island's dry coral gardens