Mombasa

Diani Beach isn't just another pretty face on Kenya's coastline-it's the kind of place that can make even jaded beach cynics reconsider their stance on tropical paradises. With sand softer than a politician's promise and waters clear enough to justify splurging on that overpriced snorkeling mask, this palm-fringed stretch near Mombasa has been soothing travelers and adrenaline junkies alike for decades. Early mornings here are absurdly serene, offering postcard-perfect sunrise strolls before the jet skis and kiteboarders take over around late morning; plan your visit at least a few weeks in advance if you're picky about beachfront accommodations, or if you're the type to demand a prime hammock spot beneath your preferred palm tree. Budget around $50-$100 per day to cover lobster lunches, fruity cocktails, and perhaps recovering dignity lost during a particularly ambitious windsurfing lesson. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and your sense of humor-especially if you intend to navigate local beach vendors selling everything from intricate beadwork to philosophical conversations. Ultimately, a visit to Diani Beach is undeniably worth it-if not for the surreal turquoise tranquility, then at least for the bragging rights that come with casually mentioning how you spent an afternoon wiping out spectacularly in paradise.

You wouldn't think sailing into Lamu Island-a remote dot off Kenya's northern coast-would be such a brazen leap into antiquity, but stepping foot here feels delightfully like crashing a 15th-century house party. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its winding alleys barely wide enough for a donkey (good luck with that oversized suitcase), boasts the kind of charm that all-inclusive resorts only pretend to have. Expect wooden doors intricately carved like they've got state secrets hidden inside, coral-stone buildings leaning against each other like tipsy sailors, and locals who navigate their days with an enviable, sun-drenched lack of urgency. Show up in the early morning, when the air is still cool enough to enjoy without melting, the fishermen are hauling in their catch, and you can snag yourself a breakfast mandazi (Swahili donut) before all the good ones disappear. Planning wise, don't procrastinate-secure your accommodations and transportation at least a month ahead, and budget about $50-$100 per day, depending on your tolerance for freshly grilled seafood and the occasional dhow sailing trip into the sunset. Bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a hat-the usual tropical survival kit-and muster the patience of a Zen Buddhist when navigating relaxed boat schedules and the island's casual disregard for punctuality. Even if your day dissolves into a maze of lazy strolls, endless cups of cardamom-spiked coffee, and a sunset so perfect it'll make your Instagram followers suspicious of Photoshop, Lamu Island delivers an offbeat adventure that's worth it-if only just to boast later at cocktail parties of the time you unapologetically lost yourself in paradise.