Kilili Baharini

The unique layout of the Kilili Baharini gives it an intimate and personal atmosphere. The spacious thatched villas are arranged in groups of three or four around a small swimming pool. There are a total of three such groupings each with its own private pool. Nearer the ocean is a large communal pool and a ding and bar area.

The landscaping is exotic with many trees and flowering shrubs. The villas are oversized, with loads of veranda space and Lamu furniture colorful with kanga cushions. A high platform above the verandah is reached by ladder and is yet another private space to relax. The place has flair and offers an exotic and unique concept. Most clients are Italian.

Kingfisher Lodge

Kingfisher lodge is the Malindi home base for the exclusive family-run business which also includes luxury tented safaris and big game fishing. The extended British Kenyan family is experienced hosts, guides and fishermen.

The lodge is 3km from Malindi harbor and beach. It is in a peaceful spot and can accommodate 14 people in 7 doubles. The original four deluxe cottages are set in beautifully maintained gardens around a sparkling swimming pool. These thatched cottages have spacious bedrooms with air-conditioning and ceiling fans. The additional three doubles are in the form of a private villa which has its own garden and a large verandah. There is a sitting room and the bedrooms each have an ensuite bathroom.

Delicious home-cooked meals are served in the open-air dining rondavel next to the pool. Many optional excursions are available from the lodge; bird watching, camel and horse riding, snorkeling and diving, golf tennis, etc.

Kingfisher also operate five fully-equipped crewed charter boats for deep sea fishing, sailfish, marlin, swordfish and tuna are found off Malindi. Kingfisher Safaris operate their own exclusive tented camp in Tsavo East on the Galana River- a two and a half hour drive from Malindi.

White Elephant Sea Lodge

Classy and elegant, this smaller lodge caters almost exclusively to Italians. It can not be booked within Kenya, but if there is space, they will accept walk ins. Beautiful furniture and unusual artwork distinguish the white elephant. There are hunting trophies on the walls, elephant hide covers the reception desk, and beautiful views of the flowers and water are framed by carved doors and windows. An aura o nostalgia and refined taste pervades. You may wish you spoke Italian.

There are 40 spacious rooms with Lamu furniture and air conditioning. Rooms do not have sea views.

The Drift Wood Beach Club Malindi

Like its name, the driftwood has been around for a long time, gaining character and some forgivable grunge. It has recently been refurbished and three adjoining cottages with a pool added. This low-key and personal family-style hotel is a long time favorite of British Kenyans. It is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, popular bar and good food. The attractive dining room and bar are open to breezes and sea views, and the beach is only steps away.

Accommodation is in individual bandas. The rooms are rudimentary. Some have sea views and air conditioning. Rooms closest to the ocean are #21, 22 and 25.

Appreciate the drift wood for its character.

Robert is a Kenya travel expert and the East African region. He is a director to Landmark safaris ltd. At Landmark, we let you tailor your own Malindi Kenya water Holiday-the way you want it! See your Africa safari planner here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner