Kilifi is a small coastal town about halfway between Mombasa and Malindi, set on a beautiful creek that opens into the Indian Ocean. It is quieter and less developed than either of its neighbours, which is part of the appeal — the beach is good, the pace is slow, and the expat community around Distant Relatives Ecolodge has brought a handful of decent restaurants and bars.
The Mnarani Ruins, on a bluff overlooking Kilifi Creek, are a well-preserved medieval Swahili settlement worth a visit for the atmosphere and the views. Dhow trips on the creek can be arranged locally, and Bofa Beach just north of town is the best swimming beach in the area. The adventurous can throw themselves off the Kilifi Bridge on a bungee line, or drive south to the time-warped Swahili village of Takaungu.