Within Diani Beach, the main road runs parallel to the coast and is served by frequent matatus connecting Ukunda junction to the various hotel and resort zones. Tuk-tuks are the most useful option for short hops along the beach strip — they are everywhere, cheap, and easier to flag than a taxi. Bodabodas (motorcycle taxis) are widely available but best avoided for anything other than short, daytime journeys.
Hiring a car or scooter gives more flexibility for reaching Tiwi Beach to the north or Shimoni and Kisite to the south. Car hire is available through several Diani operators. The main road south to Shimoni is surfaced but narrows after Msambweni; give yourself extra time.
For Shimba Hills, the reserve is about 30 kilometres from Diani and most accessible by organised tour or hired vehicle. Public matatus run to the reserve entrance from Ukunda but connections are infrequent and the timing makes a day trip difficult without a vehicle. Most visitors go with a lodge-arranged tour.