Any chance to explore the Kenyan coast is a welcome idea promising white sand beaches and clear waters and a myriad of water activities. Diani is a coveted island on Kenya’s south coast boasting three kilometers of unadulterated beaches the longest on the coast. PrideInn Diani is one of the select listings on the beach that has always drawn acclaim for local and international guests. For nine months, its regulars have missed its offering and this past week I was honoured to attend its reopening launch after renovation.

PrideInn Diani is one of the establishments under the chain of PrideInn Hotels spread across Nairobi, Mombasa, Narok, and Kwale counties. The chain of boutique hotels and resorts are known in Kenya for its balance of prestige, comfort, and functionality. PrideInn Diani is the go-to for the budget traveler who seeks a simple and essential accommodation solution. Evidenced by its all-year-round clientele ranging from the pleasure seeker to the business traveler, PrideInn Diani prides itself in offering customers value for their money. Need a relaxed business meeting environment? You got it! Need an ambient space for a little downtime by the pool? You got it! The 9-month-long closure to refurbish attests to its commitment to providing value for its customers.

Wondering what’s new? Well, I enjoyed a short stint under their hosting. Graciously, I’m here to give you a sneak peek of the face-lift.

Getting There!

True to its spirit PrideInn flew me to Moi International Airport with the best. You guessed right, -Jambojet. The smooth flight set the pace for a prestigious front-row seat to an experience of formidable Kenyan hospitality. To get to the South Coast one has to cross over by ferry. Here, we were unceremoniously delayed for over an hour.

We later had an uneventful 20-minute ride to our destination. We were soon to discover the heights of this fame. Undoubtedly, the PrideInn Diani experience was missed. The venue was booked at full capacity! Can you imagine that? Complete occupancy before its opening ceremony was the unspoken endorsement of its reputation.

We proceeded to stay at another of its listing, a rather picturesque boutique hotel; the PrideInn, Nyali. What stands out in the PrideInn chain is the unwavering dedication to the Kenyan aesthetic. The architecture and furnishings seamlessly combined with modern influences to reflect the local coastal culture. I believe it is this eclectic mix that leaves one feeling stylishly and peacefully at home.

Rediscovering the PrideInn Diani

The rarefied Diani environment provides the perfect setting for the hotel. The horizon of vast waters and palm trees flanking the shores set a tropical destination background. In the heart of Ukunda along Beach Road,PrideInn Diani comes into view. The typical Swahili influences welcome you with striking architecture- arches, white-washed textured walls, and airy rooms.

The overall impression of the PrideInn Diani is the beauty of how well-equipped it yet simple. The Pride Inn chain can attribute its success to its accommodation facilities and the Diani establishment is no different. The hotel boasts 40 well-furnished rooms ready for occupation.

The rooms are strikingly different from the exteriors. The earth-rich browns bring a warmth of color to the facilities. The furniture and bright paintings open the doors to a place of calm and rest. The renovation has raised rooms to state-of-the-art standards in dedication to the hotel’s commitment to providing unrivaled service and value in the region. A stay in their deluxe rooms launches you deep into the vacation mood. Complimented by panoramic beach views, emerald orthopedic beds and air-conditioning you will have trouble leaving.

Ultra Modern Aqua Park

The stars of the 9-month renovation, however, are the addition of an ultra-modern aqua park and a convention center. These additions raise the hotel’s bar as an ideal accommodation center for families and corporate guests. The ultramodern aqua park is arguably the first of its kind in the region. It will undoubtedly become a guest’s favorite. It features amusement activities for kids taking the worry away for families who travel with children.

Convention Centre

Another game changer that has come out of the long hiatus is the convention center. The state-of-the-art meeting center is a strategic business step. This makes Diani not only for pleasure seekers but also for the corporate traveler. Now guests will enjoy the perfect balance of work and play under the same roof. Without a doubt, work has found a new home in the 3 spacious and flexible convention rooms. Guests can choose layouts for short business meetings and fully-fledged corporate events. Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) clients are now covered in Kwale county.

Another facility to look forward to while visiting is its poolside restaurant. The charming pool is the outdoor spot of choice for guests. Additionally, you can enjoy delectable local and international cuisines while relaxing in the cool coastal breeze.

The reopening event presided over by the deputy governor of Kwale was the highlight of the stay. We enjoyed a spread of activities and great music from a band on set. Afterward, we got to see the PrideInn light the town with its customary tree-lighting activity at the PrideInn Flamingo Beach Resort and Spa. Guests received an official welcome to the Festive season under the massive tree.

Why look further this season? Delight your family by bringing them to Pride Inn Diani. There is something for everyone. For the little guests, the working nomad, and of course the vacationists.

Go ahead and book your stay early enough!