Top 10 Things To Do In Malindi, Kenya
Visiting coastal Kenya and wondering what to do in Malindi?
Malindi may be a small coastal town, but there’s plenty to see and do. Whether you’re into beaches, wildlife, history, or trying traditional Swahili food, Malindi has something for you.
During my holiday in Kenya, my friend and I stayed in Malindi, so I’ll share the best things to do based on our experience.
Malindi, Kenya-Overview
Malindi is a small town on Kenya’s coast, about a two-hour drive from Mombasa, where international flights land. If you’re coming from Nairobi, you can fly directly to Malindi’s small airport.
The town is generally safe, but it’s best to avoid walking around at night as a tourist. During the day, it’s fine to explore on foot, though you may be approached by homeless children, so having some small change or food to give can be helpful.
Malindi has a unique mix of locals, tourists, and a significant Italian community, many of whom own hotels and restaurants. You’ll often hear Italian alongside English and Swahili.
There’s a small shopping mall, as well as plenty of restaurants and cafés. Now, let’s dive into the top things to do in Malindi during your Kenya trip!
1. Relax on Malindi’s Beaches
Since Malindi is a coastal town, you’ll find plenty of beaches to relax on. Some of the best ones include Golden Beach, Marine Park, Casuarina Beach, and Silversands Beach.
While they may not be as stunning as the beaches in Watamu or Diani, they’re still great for spending a peaceful day by the ocean, taking a walk, or enjoying the sea breeze.
For the best experience, stay in a hotel right by the beach so you can enjoy the sand and waves anytime. We stayed at Lawford Hotel, a lovely place with two pools, a restaurant, and a bar.
The sand was soft and white, but the sea had a reddish tint during our stay. I’m not sure if that’s always the case or just seasonal.
👉 Read my full review of Lawford Hotel here.
2. Go snorkeling or diving
If you’re up for some adventure, explore Malindi’s underwater world! Snorkeling or diving will give you a chance to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine life up close.
Head to Malindi Marine National Park for the best spots, or check with your hotel for guided tours with instructors. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, there are options for everyone to enjoy the ocean from a different perspective.
3. Take a day trip to Watamu
One of the best experiences we had in Malindi was a day trip to Watamu, and I highly recommend it! The tour picked us up from our hotel, and the drive to Watamu Beach took about 30 minutes.
When we arrived, the tide was low, and we hopped on a boat to start our trip. Along the way, we saw dolphins playing in the ocean and even spotted an eagle sitting on a rock. It was amazing to see up close!
We stopped for some snorkeling, where we swam among hundreds of colorful fish. After that, we continued through the mangroves and made our way to Waka Waka Island, where we had a delicious grilled seafood lunch.
To top off the experience, we watched a performance by one of Kenya’s local tribes, and those who wanted could join in. Of course, my friend and I couldn’t resist, it was so much fun!
4. Go on a safari to Tsavo and Amboseli National Park
If you visit Kenya and don’t go on a safari, it’s like you haven’t really been to Kenya! We joined an organized tour to Tsavo East National Park, about a four-hour drive from Malindi, where we spent a day and a night.
From there, we continued to Amboseli National Park, staying another day and night.
In Tsavo East, we saw so many animals, including elephants covered in red dust from the region’s soil. We also spotted crocodiles, waterbucks, kudus, zebras, giraffes, buffalos, and even cheetahs.
We stayed at Voi Wildlife Lodge, which has an incredible viewpoint where animals gather at a waterhole. It’s a comfortable mid-range lodge, not luxurious but clean and well-suited for couples and families. We had lunch there and later enjoyed drinks at the outdoor bar while watching the wildlife.
From Tsavo East, we headed to Amboseli, where we got to see the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. This park was also full of wildlife, including elephants, hyenas, wild pigs, wildebeest, and even a lion.
For our stay, we chose Kibo Safari Camp, where we had a spacious tent with two beds, and a bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet. The best part? Waking up to a breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro right from our tent.
On the way back, we stopped at a Maasai Village, where the locals showed us their way of life. It was such a memorable experience and the perfect way to end our safari adventure.
➡️Check out a similar tour here
5. Visit Gede Ruins and Malindi Museum
If you love history, Gede Ruins and Malindi Museum are worth a visit. At Gede Ruins, the tour guide brought some bananas for us to feed the monkeys before exploring this UNESCO-listed site that dates back to the 12th century.
Walking through the ancient stone structures, mosques, and tombs felt like stepping back in time. There’s also a huge baobab tree with stairs leading up, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the ruins and you’ll likely spot monkeys relaxing in the branches!
Not far from Gede Ruins, the Malindi Museum offers a small but interesting look into the area’s history. You’ll find some artifacts and exhibits, but don’t expect a large museum, it’s a quick visit, perfect for adding to your day of exploring.
➡️Book the Malindi and Gede ruins tour here
6. See Vasco De Gama Pillar and Portuguese Chapel
The Vasco da Gama Pillar and the Portuguese Chapel are two historical landmarks in Malindi worth visiting. The Vasco da Gama Pillar, built in the 15th century by the famous Portuguese explorer, offers great ocean views and a glimpse into Malindi’s colonial past.
Nearby, the Portuguese Chapel, one of the oldest churches in East Africa, is a small but interesting site with a peaceful atmosphere. Both places are quick stops but add a nice touch of history to your trip.
7. Visit Hell’s Kitchen in Marafa
Hell’s Kitchen in Marafa is a unique natural wonder near Malindi, often called Kenya’s “Grand Canyon.” This stunning landscape features deep sandstone gorges with red, orange, and white rock formations shaped by erosion over time.
The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when the setting sun makes the colors even more vibrant. It’s a great spot for photography and a short hike while learning about the local legends surrounding the site.
➡️Book Hell’s Kitchen with Robinson Island here
8. Take a day trip to Mombasa
Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city, is a great place for a day trip from Malindi if you want to explore history and culture. Start at Fort Jesus, a UNESCO-listed fortress built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
Then, stroll through Old Town, where you’ll see narrow streets, Swahili architecture, and vibrant markets. Don’t miss the famous Mombasa Tusks, a landmark symbolizing the city’s heritage.
If you have time, visit Haller Park, a wildlife sanctuary home to giraffes, crocodiles, and hippos. A day in Mombasa is a mix of history, culture, and nature, all in one trip!
9. Try Swahili food
Swahili food in Malindi is a delicious mix of African, Indian, and Arabian flavors, and trying it is a must!
Start with viazi karai (deep-fried potatoes with spicy chutney) or samosas for a tasty snack. For a main meal, go for pilau (spiced rice with meat), biriyani, or grilled seafood fresh from the ocean.
Don’t forget to try mandazi (Swahili doughnuts) with a cup of chai. The mix of spices and fresh ingredients makes every bite unforgettable!
10. Enjoy the sunset near Malindi Pier
Sunsets in Africa are something special, and Malindi Pier is a great spot to watch the sky turn golden. Located on Golden Beach, not far from Lawford Hotel, where we stayed, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing evening walk.
The view from the pier is beautiful, and you can snap some amazing photos as the sun sets over the ocean.
Best Things to Do in Malindi: FAQs
What is special about Malindi?
Malindi has a lot to offer! Its beautiful coral reefs, best seen in Watamu Marine National Park, make it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
The relaxed beach vibes, cozy hotels and villas, delicious Swahili food, and nearby national parks for a safari adventure all make Malindi a special place to visit.
What should I wear in Malindi Kenya?
At beach hotels and on the beach, it’s perfectly fine to wear a bikini or beachwear. However, when heading into town or visiting historical sites, it’s best to dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, especially for female travelers.
Also, it’s a good idea to avoid wearing flashy jewelry, as poverty is common in Kenya.
How safe is Malindi?
Malindi is very safe during the day, with many tourists and international residents around. However, it’s best to avoid going out at night, especially on foot.
When we arrived, the hotel staff advised us that it could be dangerous for mzungus (foreigners), especially women, after dark.
One evening, we went out for a drink with our local tour guide at a nearby bar. We saw very few tourists there, and most were with locals. We went by car, and from what we saw, the streets didn’t seem safe for walking at night.
When is the best time to visit Malindi?
The best time to visit Malindi is between June to October and December to February.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! Malindi, with its beautiful beaches, rich history, delicious food, stunning nature, and nearby safaris, is a perfect place for your next getaway.
You may want to check:
Is Kenya Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons to Visit
The Top 8 Beaches In Kenya For Your Next Getaway
The Lawford Hotel In Malindi, Kenya: Review
