Watamu Marine Park, kilifi Image Courtesy

Kilifi County has earned a spot on the New York Times’ annual list of 52 Places to Visit in 2025, ranked at position 32. The article highlights Kilifi as a “hip beach town spared from sprawling resorts.”

“Once the kind of sleepy coastal village that tourists sped past, Kilifi has become the hip new destination on Kenya’s palm-fringed coast. A dance party helped put it on the map: Every New Year, thousands of revelers converge for Beneath the Baobabs, a three-day music festival mixing Afro house, Kenyan hip-hop, and traditional African music,” writes Declan Walsh.

Kilifi, one of Kenya’s 47 counties, includes vibrant towns like Watamu, Kikambala, and Malindi—the largest in the county. Known for its rich history, Kilifi boasts attractions such as the Ruins of Gedi, a historical site with mosques and tombs dating back to the 11th to 17th centuries. Watamu, on the other hand, is famous for its stunning beaches, offering a slice of paradise along Kenya’s coastline.

Popular hotels in Kilifi include The Silver Palm Beach Resort, Mnarani Beach Club, Salty’s Kitesurf Village, Medina Palms, and Turtle Bay Resort.

Kenya was one of only three African countries to feature in the New York Times list, alongside Angola and Benin City in Nigeria.

Things to Do in Kilifi

Dolphin and Whale Watching

Witness one of nature’s greatest marvels as hundreds of humpback whales migrate over 4,000 kilometers from Antarctica to Kenya’s warmer coastal waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their young. The best time for whale watching is between July and October, with Watamu being the ideal location.

Water Sports and Activities

Dolphin/whale watching in kilifi, Kenya

Enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters,  white sandy beaches or dive into exciting activities like kite surfing, snorkeling, and jet skiing.

Sightseeing

Explore Kilifi’s rich history through its landmarks and museums, such as the Kilifi Development Museum, Watamu Marine Park and the Mnarani Ruins, offering a glimpse into the region’s past.

Kilifi is not just a travel destination; it’s an experience filled with culture, adventure, and breathtaking beauty, making it a must-visit in 2025.