The Coast

Kenya's coastal region extends for 480 km (298 miles) along the Indian Ocean from the Somalian border in the north to the wilds of Tanzania in the south. This region is world famous for its mangrove swamps, rocky inlets, and palm trees. The beaches are protected from destructive ocean waves by extensive coral fringe and barrier reefs. Throughout the centuries these reefs supplied building material for coastal cities. The reefs also shelter hundreds of aquatic species and are home to three marine national parks, Kisite, Watumu, and Malindi.

Rainfall along the coast is abundant, but often occurs in short bursts except during the April to June monsoon season. This region averages 40 -50 inches of rain per year. The coastal climate is hot and humid with little variation in annual temperature (87 F during the day, rarely below 68 F in the evening). This narrow coastal region is low-lying and fertile making it ideal for sugar cane and sisal plantations.

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