Tiwi Beach and the rest of the coast south of Mombasa stretching down to Tanzania is a tropical paradise, with endless stretches of wide sandy beaches lined with coconut palms and lapped by the warm waters of the Indian ocean.

This is a Mecca for sun worshippers and snorkellers alike as the reefs are alive with colourful fish. Tiwi beach is very popular with budget travellers, mainly because of the old hippy hangout.

There is 1 large mid-market package-tour hotel at the S end of the beach with its own 300-yd stretch of tarmac road reached via 3 mls of dirt track. There are around a dozen cottage and chalet complexes spread out along the coast farther N.

It is in an isolated position combined with lack of nightlife and eateries, recommended to those looking for peace and tranquillity, also avid snorkellers visit here often.

There is the possibility of terrorist attacks on tourists in Kenya; Foreign Office advisory notices offer the latest official advice and should be consulted before booking.

Locality:

On the extreme SE coast, facing the Indian Ocean. 315 mls SE of the capital, Nairobi. 16 mls S of Mombasa. 22 mls SE of Mombasa's Moi international airport. Several miles of pale sandy coast, fronted by reefs and sand bars and backed by woodland. Separated from Diani Beach to the S by Mwachema Creek; it is possible to walk across the creek at low tide in the dry season.