Things to Do in Malindi, Kenya

Malindi is a captivating coastal town on Kenya's Indian Ocean shore, renowned for its pristine beaches, rich Swahili culture, and fascinating blend of African, Arab, and Portuguese influences. This historic trading port, once visited by explorer Vasco da Gama, offers visitors a perfect combination of relaxation and cultural exploration, with its coral-white beaches stretching for miles and its ancient ruins telling stories of centuries past. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring marine national parks, experiencing traditional Swahili architecture, and enjoying some of Kenya's finest seafood. Beyond its stunning coastline, Malindi is famous for its vibrant marine life, making it a premier destination for snorkeling, diving, and deep-sea fishing. The nearby Malindi Marine National Park protects some of East Africa's most spectacular coral reefs, while the town itself buzzes with local markets, beachfront restaurants, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the remnants of Gedi, a mysterious 13th-century Swahili town, or simply unwind on the golden sands while watching traditional dhow boats sail across the azure waters.

Top Things to Do in Malindi

Snorkeling and Diving

Explore the pristine coral reefs of Malindi Marine National Park, home to over 600 species of fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. The protected waters offer excellent visibility and calm conditions perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Popular dive sites include the coral gardens near Casuarina Point and the deeper reefs offshore.

Booking Tip: Book through established dive centers like East African Diving or Malindi Diving for $40-80 per dive. Best visibility is during dry seasons (December-March, July-October). Look for PADI-certified operators with good safety records and recent equipment maintenance.

Deep Sea Fishing

Experience world-class sport fishing in the deep waters off Malindi's coast, targeting marlin, sailfish, tuna, and dorado. The continental shelf drops dramatically just offshore, creating ideal conditions for big game fishing. Many operators practice catch-and-release conservation methods while providing an unforgettable fishing experience.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters cost $600-1200 for groups of 4-6 people. October to March offers the best fishing conditions. Choose operators with modern boats, safety equipment, and experienced local captains who know the best fishing spots.

Gedi Ruins Exploration

Discover the mysterious remains of Gedi, a 13th-century Swahili town abandoned in the 17th century and now overgrown by coastal forest. Walk through the ruins of mosques, palaces, and houses while learning about the sophisticated civilization that once thrived here. The site offers fascinating insights into medieval Swahili culture and architecture.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $15 for non-residents. Visit early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better wildlife spotting. Hire a local guide for $10-15 to fully understand the historical significance and spot monkeys and birds in the forest.

Traditional Dhow Sailing

Sail on a traditional Arab dhow boat along Malindi's coastline, experiencing the same mode of transport used by traders for over a millennium. These graceful wooden vessels offer a peaceful way to explore the coast, often including sunset cruises with local music and fresh seafood. Many trips include stops at secluded beaches or snorkeling spots.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $30-60 per person, sunset cruises $25-45. Book through beachfront operators or hotels, ensuring boats have safety equipment. Avoid rough weather periods and confirm if meals and drinks are included in the price.

Cultural Walking Tours

Explore Malindi's old town with its narrow streets, traditional Swahili architecture, and bustling markets. Visit the Vasco da Gama Pillar, browse local crafts at the market, and learn about the town's multicultural heritage. These tours often include visits to local mosques, the old Portuguese chapel, and interactions with local artisans and traders.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $15-30 per person for 2-3 hours. Best done in morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Look for guides certified by Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) who can provide historical context and cultural insights.

Getting There

Malindi is accessible by air through Malindi Airport, which receives domestic flights from Nairobi (1.5-hour flight) operated by airlines like Safarilink and Fly540, costing $150-250 one way. By road, the journey from Nairobi takes 6-8 hours via the A109 highway through Mombasa, with regular bus services like Modern Coast and Tahmeed costing $15-25. Many visitors also arrive via Mombasa's Moi International Airport (2-hour drive) and take a shuttle or taxi to Malindi for around $60-80.

Getting Around

Malindi is easily navigable by foot in the town center, with most attractions within walking distance. Tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws) are the most popular local transport, costing $2-5 for short trips around town. Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) offer quick transport for $1-3 per ride but require caution. For longer excursions or beach hopping, rent a car ($40-60 per day) or hire a taxi for half or full-day trips ($30-80 depending on distance).

Where to Stay

Malindi Town Center

Silversands Beach

Watamu Bay

Casuarina Beach

Mambrui Village

Che Shale Beach

Food & Dining

Malindi's dining scene celebrates fresh seafood and Swahili cuisine, with beachfront restaurants serving grilled fish, coconut curry, and traditional ugali. Popular spots include Baby Marrow for Italian-Swahili fusion, Old Man and the Sea for fresh seafood with ocean views, and local joints like Baobab Cafe for authentic Swahili dishes. The town market offers tropical fruits, coconut water, and local snacks, while many hotels feature international cuisine alongside local specialties. Don't miss trying the famous Malindi prawns, kingfish, and traditional Swahili pilau rice.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Malindi is during the dry seasons from December to March and July to October, when you'll enjoy sunny skies, calm seas, and excellent conditions for water activities. December to March offers the warmest weather and is peak season for fishing and diving, though it's also the busiest and most expensive time. The July to October period provides slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds while still maintaining good weather. Avoid the long rains from April to June when heavy downpours can disrupt activities, though this period offers lower prices and lush landscapes.

Insider Tips

Negotiate prices for activities and transport, as initial quotes are often inflated for tourists - aim for 20-30% less than the first offer

Bring reef-safe sunscreen as regular sunscreen can damage the coral reefs in the marine parks

Visit the local fish market early morning (6-8am) to see the daily catch and experience authentic local life away from tourist areas

Things to Do in Malindi