Situated 60 miles (40km) north of Mombasa is the lazy,
unashamedly hedonistic beach resort of Malindi. For most the main
attraction is the dazzling white sandy beaches that line the shore,
however for the more energetic there is also some excellent
fishing. Trips leave early in search of barracuda, tuna and marlin,
before the heat of the day sets in. One of the few authentic
Portuguese relics left on the coast can be found on the cliffs at
the southern end of Malindi harbour - the cross of Vasco da Gama
bears the Portuguese coat of arms and commemorates his arrival here
in 1498. South of Malindi are the Watamu and Malindi Marine
National Parks. These protected areas of white coral beaches and
stunning blue lagoons are a major attraction for snorkellers and
scuba divers. Malindi holidaymakers are also drawn here as the sea
is crystal clear in contrast with the resorts' waters, which are
muddied by the Sabaki River. Between the two marine parks is the
abandoned 15th-century Swahili town of Gedi, where visitors can
wander around the ruins of the palace, market place, houses,
mosques and pillared tombs.
