21 Unmissable Things to Do in Mombasa and the North Coast

From sun-bleached beaches and ancient Swahili streets to coral reefs, wildlife sanctuaries, and vibrant food markets, Mombasa offers far more than just a beach escape. This coastal city blends centuries of history with nonstop energy, giving travelers a long list of unforgettable things to do. You’ll find cultural landmarks, laid-back beach bars, family-friendly theme parks, and marine parks teeming with life—all within easy reach.

Whether you’re planning a deep dive into heritage, looking for outdoor adventure, or just want to discover the best local food spots, there’s always something exciting to do in Mombasa and its northern coast. The possibilities are wide-ranging, dynamic, and often surprising.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Mombasa—from iconic sights and local attractions to outdoor adventures, hidden gems, and must-try activities.

Dive into Mombasa’s History and Heritage

Fort Jesus: History, Conflict, and Coastal Power

Visiting Fort Jesus is one of the essential things to do in Mombasa. Towering above the Old Port, this 16th-century fortress was built by the Portuguese to protect their trade routes and soon became the most contested site on the Swahili coast. Its thick coral-stone walls and sea-facing cannons still echo the power struggles between European and Arab powers.

Today, Fort Jesus is a must-visit for history lovers. You can walk through underground passages, view centuries-old cannons, and explore a museum filled with Portuguese, Arab, and British artifacts—maps, weapons, ceramics, and Swahili relics that trace the complex story of Mombasa’s past. One of the best things to do here is climb to the upper ramparts for panoramic views of the harbor, especially at sunset.

Price: KES 1,200 ($8) for adults; KES 600 ($4) for children
Getting there: Located on the edge of Old Town. A 10–20 minute ride by tuk-tuk, matatu, or Uber from most parts of Mombasa, including Nyali and the city center.

Old Town: Mombasa’s Cultural Crossroads

Old Town is one of the most rewarding places to explore in Mombasa and should be high on your list of things to do. This neighborhood is a living showcase of Swahili, Arab, and Indian heritage. Its narrow alleys are lined with coral stone buildings, carved doors, wooden balconies, mosques, and spice markets.

Wandering here is like walking through a history book. Highlights include the Mandhry Mosque (built in 1570), the atmospheric Old Port with its anchored dhows, and small antique shops packed with brassware, maps, and relics. For a deeper experience, one of the best things to do is join a walking tour with a local guide who can explain the architecture and stories behind each turn.

Price: Free on your own; guided tours from KES 3,000 ($20)
Getting there: Directly next to Fort Jesus. Easily accessible by foot, tuk-tuk, or Uber from other parts of town.

The Mombasa Tusks: Quick Sightseeing Must-Do

The giant aluminum tusks on Moi Avenue are one of the most recognizable sights in Mombasa and a quick, easy thing to do while exploring the city center. Erected in 1952 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s visit, the twin arches cross the main road, forming a large “M” for Mombasa.

They’re a favorite photo stop and mark the ceremonial gateway into the central business district. While it’s not a long visit, stopping here is one of those iconic things to do in Mombasa—especially if you’re nearby for shopping, lunch, or sightseeing.

Price: Free
Getting there: Located in the CBD, a short walk from central hotels or a 5–10 minute tuk-tuk ride from Nyali or Old Town (KES 100–300).

Embrace Nature and Wildlife

Haller Park: From Quarry to Coastal Oasis

A visit to Haller Park is one of the most enriching experiences you can have on Mombasa’s North Coast. Once a barren limestone quarry, this 75-hectare reserve is now a thriving ecological haven where giraffes roam freely, hippos cool off in shaded ponds, and colobus monkeys swing overhead.

Winding forest trails take you past fish farms, a butterfly house, and reptile enclosures. You’ll spot elands grazing in the open, tortoises lazing under trees, and birdlife that includes storks, kingfishers, and herons. One of the most popular things to do here is feeding the giraffes—gentle giants who approach the raised platform for treats and photo ops.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, Haller Park offers a relaxed, educational break from the beach. It’s peaceful, green, and unexpectedly wild.

Price: KES 500 ($3.50) for adults; KES 300 ($2) for children
Getting there: Located in Bamburi, just off the Mombasa–Malindi Highway. Around 20–25 minutes from town by taxi, tuk-tuk, matatu, or boda boda.

Nguuni Nature Sanctuary: Wildlife in the Open

Tucked behind Bamburi’s busy roads, Nguuni Nature Sanctuary is quiet, uncrowded, and surprisingly wild. Giraffes, ostriches, and antelopes roam across the savannah-like landscape, with no fences between you and the animals. There’s a natural watering hole, a few wooden watchtowers, and plenty of space to walk, picnic, or just relax under the shade of acacias.

It’s one of those things to do when you want a break from the bustle—somewhere you can bring your own snacks, light a bonfire at sunset, and watch giraffes wander by in golden light. There are no formal tours here, just open land and the occasional curious ostrich.

For anyone looking to experience nature without the crowds, Nguuni hits the mark.

Price: KES 350 ($2.50) per person
Getting there: About 10–15 minutes from Bamburi by tuk-tuk or boda boda. Drivers can wait or return later—best to plan your transport ahead.

Mamba Village: Reptiles, Camels, and Close-Up Wildlife

Set in the leafy heart of Nyali, Mamba Village is East Africa’s largest crocodile farm—and a hit with families and first-time visitors. Dozens of crocodiles bask in open pools, and during afternoon feeding time, they spring into action with dramatic speed. It’s intense, memorable, and very popular with kids.

There’s more than crocs, too. You’ll find botanical gardens, a tortoise pen, camel rides, and even a restaurant serving crocodile steak for the curious. It’s an easy stop if you’re in Nyali and looking for a half-day outing that’s fun and a little different.

Not every attraction in Mombasa needs to be by the sea—and this one proves it.

Price: KES 400 ($3) per adult; KES 200 ($1.50) per child
Getting there: Located off Links Road in Nyali. Roughly 15–20 minutes from the city center by taxi or tuk-tuk. Combine it with nearby attractions like Nyali Beach or Wild Waters for a full day out.

Unwind on Mombasa’s Beaches

Nyali Beach: White Sands and Urban Ease

Just minutes from the city, Nyali Beach offers soft sand, swimmable waters, and a breezy vibe that blends comfort with convenience. It’s one of the easiest spots to reach if you’re staying in central Mombasa or near Nyali’s hotels. You’ll find families walking the shoreline, kite surfers catching the wind, and locals playing beach football in the evenings.

It’s also one of the best beaches for a quiet morning swim or golden-hour photography. If you’re looking for low-effort, relaxing things to do along the coast, Nyali delivers.

Price: Free
Getting there: Easy to access by tuk-tuk, matatu, or taxi from anywhere in Nyali or the city center. Less than 20 minutes from town.

Bamburi Beach: Energy, Water Sports, and Crowd Appeal

Bamburi Beach is where things pick up. Lined with beach resorts, water sports centers, and open-air bars, it’s one of the most action-packed areas along the North Coast. Jet skis and banana boats skim across the surf, while camels plod past sunbathers and vendors sell everything from coconuts to beaded anklets.

Snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and beach volleyball are just a few of the activities on offer. If you’re after lively beach attractions or looking for high-energy things to do in Mombasa, this is the spot.

Price: Free beach access; most activities range from KES 1,500–3,000 ($10–20)
Getting there: About 25 minutes north of the city. Take a matatu, Uber, or tuk-tuk from Nyali or town.

Shanzu Beach: Slower Pace, Soothing Vibe

Shanzu Beach trades crowds for calm. Its relaxed, open stretch of coast is ideal if you’re looking to avoid the noise and soak up the sea breeze in peace. Mid-range and upscale hotels line the waterfront, offering private beach access, shaded lounges, and beachfront dining.

It’s one of the best choices for couples or solo travelers in search of quiet beach experiences. Whether it’s sipping a drink under a palm tree or catching sunrise in near silence, Shanzu is an easy pick for slower-paced things to do near Mombasa.

Price: Public access is free; some resorts charge for day use (KES 500–1,000 / $3–7)
Getting there: Located along the Mombasa–Malindi Road, roughly 35–40 minutes from town by taxi or matatu.

English Point Marina: Style and Sea Views

Across the creek from Old Town, English Point Marina is a sleek, modern development with a boardwalk, waterfront restaurants, and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It’s not your typical sandy beach, but it offers one of the most stylish and contemporary settings in the city — a perfect place to relax, take photos, or decide on your next thing to do in Mombasa.

Whether you’re in the mood for a sunset cocktail, a fine dining experience, or just a casual coffee with a view, this is one of the best places to do it. The marina features upscale eateries serving everything from fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes to gourmet grills, along with lounges and bars offering a wide selection of wines, cocktails, and premium spirits.

You can also book a sunset dhow cruise from here or simply stroll the boardwalk as the city lights begin to twinkle across the water. It’s a convenient stop if you’re exploring nearby attractions like Fort Jesus or Nyali Beach and want a scenic, upscale place to pause and indulge.

Price: Free to enter; meals range from KES 1,500–3,000 ($10–20), drinks extra
Getting there: Just across Nyali Bridge, around 10–15 minutes by taxi or tuk-tuk from Old Town or Nyali.

Dive into Marine Adventures

Mombasa Marine National Park: Reefs, Turtles, and Open Water

Just off the coast of Nyali and Bamburi, Mombasa Marine National Park is one of the best places to experience the Indian Ocean up close. Beneath the surface, you’ll find vibrant coral gardens, schools of reef fish, and, with luck, sea turtles gliding past.

The park is ideal for both beginners and seasoned divers. Snorkeling trips usually involve a short boat ride to the reef followed by a guided swim over colorful coral beds. For diving, licensed operators provide full gear and instruction. It’s a great option if you’re looking for active things to do on the water that still leave room for relaxation.

Price: Park entry is KES 200 ($1.50); snorkeling tours from KES 4,000–6,000 ($30–45)
Getting there: Boats depart from beaches in Nyali, Bamburi, and Voyager. Reachable by taxi, tuk-tuk, or walking if you’re staying nearby.

Open Water Thrills: Jet Skiing and Deep Sea Fishing

For high-speed action on the waves, head to the activity centers along Nyali and Bamburi beaches. Jet skis and banana boats are easy to rent and great for short adrenaline bursts. Most rentals come with an instructor to guide you through safety basics before heading out.

If you’re up for something bigger, deep sea fishing trips venture far into the Indian Ocean in search of tuna, barracuda, marlin, and sailfish. Boats come equipped with gear, drinks, and experienced crews who know where to find the action. It’s one of the most thrilling things to do off the coast—and an unforgettable way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Price: Jet ski rental from KES 3,000 ($20) per 30 minutes; deep sea fishing charters from KES 15,000 ($100) per group
Getting there: Most operators offer hotel pickups or meet on the beach. Bookings can be made online, through your hotel, or directly with kiosks on Bamburi and Nyali beachfronts.

Family Fun and Theme Parks

Wild Waters: Slides, Pools, and a Day in the Sun

For a full day of family fun, Wild Waters in Nyali checks all the boxes. With over a dozen water slides, a giant wave pool, a lazy river, and a splash zone for younger kids, it’s one of the most popular attractions for locals and visitors alike.

The grounds are spacious and well-maintained, with lifeguards at every major slide. There’s also a food court, lockers, and shaded lounge areas—making it easy to spend several hours here without leaving. If you’re in Mombasa with children, it’s one of the most obvious things to do for pure, unfiltered fun.

Price: KES 1,500 ($10) for adults; KES 1,200 ($8) for children
Getting there: Located off Links Road in Nyali, just a few minutes by tuk-tuk or taxi from Nyali Centre or City Mall.

Mombasa Go-Kart: Racing and Games for All Ages

Mombasa Go-Kart is a multi-activity park that appeals to both kids and adults. It features an outdoor racing track with fast, well-maintained karts, plus a bowling alley, paintball course, arcade games, and a kid-friendly restaurant and playground.

In the evenings, the park lights up and fills with families, birthday groups, and travelers looking for something different. Whether you’re racing laps, playing table tennis, or just watching the action with a drink in hand, it’s one of the more entertaining things to do after the beach.

Price: Go-kart rides from KES 1,200 ($8); other activities vary
Getting there: Situated in Shanzu along the Mombasa–Malindi Road. Around 30 minutes from town by taxi, matatu, or Uber.

Discover Local Crafts and Culture

Bombolulu: Art, Inclusion, and Cultural Performance

Bombolulu Cultural Centre blends creativity, heritage, and social impact in one space. Run by the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya, this center supports artisans with disabilities while preserving traditional coastal crafts and cultural expression.

Visitors can explore model homesteads from Kenya’s major ethnic groups, watch live traditional dance performances, and browse an impressive selection of handmade goods—wood carvings, jewelry, batik fabrics, leatherwork, and textiles. It’s one of the more meaningful things to do in Mombasa if you’re looking to support local communities while experiencing authentic Kenyan culture.

Price: KES 400 ($3)
Getting there: Located in Bamburi, just off the Mombasa–Malindi Highway. Easy to reach by matatu, taxi, or tuk-tuk from Nyali or town.

Akamba Handicrafts: Where Mombasa’s Woodcarving Tradition Lives

A visit to Akamba Handicrafts Cooperative offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Kenya’s most respected carving communities. This sprawling open-air workshop hosts hundreds of skilled artisans who work with mahogany, ebony, and rosewood to create sculptures, masks, figurines, and decor items—all crafted by hand.

It’s not just a showroom. Visitors can walk through the carving sheds, talk to artists, and even commission custom pieces. For travelers interested in local art or looking for unique souvenirs, it’s one of the most rewarding things to do beyond the beach circuit.

Price: Free entry
Getting there: Situated near Changamwe, about 25 minutes from the city center. Best accessed by taxi or Uber; some hotels offer guided visits.

Discover Local Crafts and Culture

Bombolulu: Culture, Craft, and Community Impact

In Bamburi, Bombolulu Cultural Centre offers a cultural experience that’s both inspiring and hands-on. Operated by the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya, the centre empowers artisans while preserving Kenya’s diverse artistic traditions.

Visitors can explore traditional homestead replicas, watch dance performances representing different ethnic groups, and browse handcrafted products ranging from wood carvings and batiks to jewelry and textiles. It’s an excellent stop if you’re interested in meaningful, creative things to do in Mombasa that go beyond sightseeing.

Price: KES 400 ($3)
Getting there: Located just off the Mombasa–Malindi Highway in Bamburi. Accessible by matatu, tuk-tuk, or taxi—around 20–25 minutes from the city.

Akamba Handicrafts: Carving Culture into Every Detail

Near Changamwe, Akamba Handicrafts is a working cooperative where hundreds of local carvers shape timber into intricate works of art. From towering sculptures to delicate animal figurines, everything is made by hand using techniques passed down through generations.

Walking through the open workshops, you’ll see artisans at work and learn how raw wood transforms into finished pieces. It’s one of the most authentic places to connect with Mombasa’s artistic heritage—and a top spot for buying one-of-a-kind souvenirs. If you’re wondering what else to do beyond the usual tourist circuit, this hidden gem offers a deeper look into local craftsmanship that few visitors experience.

Price: Free entry
Getting there: About 25 minutes from central Mombasa by taxi or Uber. Best visited on the way to or from the airport or as part of a guided craft tour.

Food Tours and Swahili Cuisine

Swahili Street Eats: Spice, Smoke, and Local Flavor

Sampling street food is one of the most rewarding things to do in Mombasa if you want to connect with everyday life. On the streets of Old Town, Makadara, and Buxton, vendors serve up crisp viazi karai, freshly fried samosas, smoky mishkaki, cassava crisps, and coconut bhajias—flavors that capture the essence of coastal Kenya.

It’s fast, cheap, and full of personality. You can snack your way through an entire evening or join a guided street food tour for deeper context and hidden favorites. Either way, it’s a local food experience you won’t find in any resort buffet.

Price: Most items range from KES 20–100 ($0.15–$0.70)
Getting there: Best explored on foot in Old Town or with a local food guide. Tuk-tuks from Nyali or town cost around KES 150–300.

Coastal Fine Dining: Tamarind and Jahazi Grill

For a more refined taste of Mombasa’s culinary scene, Tamarind and Jahazi Grill set the standard. Tamarind sits on the edge of Tudor Creek, offering elegant seafood and Swahili dishes in a setting that pairs perfectly with sunset views. It’s also home to the Tamarind Dhow—a romantic floating restaurant aboard a traditional wooden dhow, where you can enjoy a candlelit dinner as you cruise the creek under the stars.

Across town in Shanzu, Jahazi Grill at Serena Beach Resort delivers oceanfront dining with an emphasis on grilled seafood, fresh catch, and Swahili spice blends. The ambiance here is more relaxed yet equally polished, ideal for those who want upscale cuisine right by the beach.

Both offer attentive service and a menu built on local ingredients. If you’re after elevated dining experiences while still keeping things authentically coastal, these two are worth making time for.

Price: KES 2,500–5,000 ($20–40) per person
Getting there: Tamarind is near English Point—just across Nyali Bridge. Jahazi Grill is in Shanzu, about 35–40 minutes from the city. Both are easily accessible by taxi or Uber.

Final Travel Tips

Transport
Getting around is easy with taxis, tuk-tuks, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt. Tuk-tuks are great for short local trips, while matatus are the cheapest way to reach key areas. If you’re planning out a full list of things to do across Mombasa and the North Coast, having flexible transport options makes it easier to move between beaches, markets, and attractions.

Best Time to Visit
The dry seasons—July to October and January to March—offer the best conditions for sightseeing, marine tours, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re heading out on a food tour, wildlife excursion, or just ticking off beachside things to do, clear skies and warm water make all the difference.

Local Etiquette
Away from the beach, modest clothing is appreciated. Mombasa has a strong Swahili-Muslim influence, so respecting customs—especially during Ramadan—is important. Greetings are valued here, and learning a few Swahili phrases adds a personal touch to every interaction.

Safety
Popular areas like Nyali, Bamburi, and Old Town are generally safe, but the usual precautions apply. Avoid dark alleys at night, don’t flash valuables, and always use trusted transport. If you’re moving between multiple things to do in a day, secure your belongings and stay alert in crowded areas.

Mombasa is more than a coastal getaway—it’s a full-spectrum destination packed with culture, flavor, and outdoor energy. From snorkeling over coral reefs to wandering ancient streets or riding camels along the beach, the variety of things to do in Mombasa ensures your trip is anything but ordinary.

Endless Things to Do, One Unforgettable Coast

Mombasa is the kind of place that doesn’t just offer a list of things to do—it delivers a full sensory experience. One moment you’re snorkeling through coral reefs; the next, you’re walking through centuries of history in Old Town or watching a beach football match in Bamburi as the sun goes down. The sheer variety of things to do—from cultural attractions to nature walks, food tours, and water sports—makes every day feel different.

This is a city where every corner has something happening and something to do. Whether you’re riding camels by the shore, dancing in a beach bar, or exploring backstreet spice stalls, there’s always another layer waiting to be uncovered. It’s this ever-changing rhythm that defines life here, and it’s exactly why Mombasa raha isn’t just a phrase—it’s a lived reality.

If you’re looking for a destination where history, culture, flavor, and adventure come together in one continuous stream of memorable experiences, Mombasa is it. The number of unique things to do along this stretch of the Kenyan coast is unmatched—and once you’re here, you’ll never run out of reasons to stay.

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