Salty’s Kitesurf Village, Beach Bar and Restaurant – Kilifi, Kenya
Salty’s Kitesurf Village sits on Bōfa Beach in Kilifi, offering a combined kite-centre, boutique style hotel, beach bar and restaurant. with a focus on sustainable and ethical operation. The venue is deliberately positioned to appeal to kite surfers and visitors seeking a relaxed coastal experience, blending water sports with on-site meals and casual accommodation. The set‑up centre is designed to cater to all kitesurfing styles and levels, while providing comfortable, affordable lodging for visiting kiters and their companions.
Highlights of Salty’s include its dedicated kitesurfing centre, access to soft sandy beaches, calm lagoons and waves off the reef, plus a beach bar and restaurant that showcases locally sourced ingredients and a laid‑back, coastal vibe. For those arriving in Kilifi, the town centre is about 3km away, offering a chance to observe the creek, markets and everyday life alongside the resort’s sea-facing action.
The venue emphasises a complete kitesurfing experience: you can rent gear, book lessons with a team trained to IKO standards, and enjoy coaching or supervised water time. The on-site eatery and bar form the social hub, with a deck that faces the sea and frequent weekly events that run from acoustic sessions to movie nights and pop‑up dinners.
What to do and what’s on offer
- Kitesurfing lessons and coaching: Instruction follows IKO standards, with options for private, semi‑private and coaching sessions. Equipment can be rented, and beach staff offer support with launching and landings during water time.
- Gear rental and supervision: A full gear package is available, with supervision for those who prefer guidance while using their own kit or Salty’s gear.
- Discover the local area: Kilifi town is nearby for markets and a flavour of daily coastal life, with the creek views and boats a regular feature of the surroundings.
- Beach bar and restaurant: On‑site dining emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu, drinks and relaxed sea‑deck atmosphere make it a popular spot for post‑session refreshments and socialising.
- Salty’s On The Creek: A floating sundowner venue atop Kilifi Creek, offering panoramic sunsets, seafood and signature drinks, with reservations recommended for peak times.
- Other activities around town: Downwinders, motorbike rides to nearby villages, diving, deep‑sea fishing, sailing and even nearby safari options are mentioned as possibilities through the Salty’s network.
Who it’s best for
Salty’s appeals most to readers seeking a dedicated kitesurf holiday in Kenya, combined with social, beach‑front dining and uncomplicated accommodation. It is suitable for solo travellers, couples and groups who value a relaxed atmosphere, a reliable wind‑friendly location, and the opportunity to mix kitesurfing with time on the coast and at the bar/restaurant. Reviews describe a friendly, sociable environment with excellent kitesurf gear quality and a strong community feel, alongside some notes on service variability.
Practical tips
- Book ahead for lessons or courses to tailor your experience to your level and wind conditions.
- If renting gear, a deposit is required, and you will be asked to demonstrate safe kitesurfing practices before hiring gear.
- Accommodation options range from Surfers Economy to Superior and King suites, with prices listed in US dollars; expect shared or private facilities depending on the room type.
- Consider combining a day on the water with a visit to Salty’s On The Creek for sunset dining and drinks.
- Sign up for activities or transportation via the Salty’s booking and contact pages to align arrival details with local arrangements.
Best time to visit
The kitesurfing seasons are described as two main wind periods: December to March (Kaskazi) with steady cross‑onshore winds, and May to October (Kuzi) with stronger cross‑onshore winds. November and April can bring lighter, sporadic winds, which may suit foil sessions or off‑season maintenance and exploration.
Getting there
Kilifi is accessible by two international airports within an hour’s drive: Moi International Airport in Mombasa and Malindi International Airport. Vipingo Ridge also serves domestic flights. Salty’s is located on Bōfa Beach in Kilifi, with airport transfer options available by prior arrangement through the Booking Page or by contacting the team with flight details.
Safety, etiquette and atmosphere
The site promotes a safe kitesurfing environment with trained staff, gear checks and supervision as needed. Visitors note a friendly, laid‑back vibe, a strong sense of community and a beach‑side dining culture. While some reviews praise the setting and service, others point to inconsistencies in service or billing practices, so it’s wise to keep an eye on bills and communicate clearly with staff about arrangements and costs.
Getting the full Salty’s experience
Whether you’re drawn by the kitesurfing potential, the beachfront hospitality, or the sunset ambience of Salty’s On The Creek, Salty’s Kitesurf Village provides a coastal hub that blends sport, dining and relaxation. With its broad appeal and varied activities, it can be a memorable core of a Kilifi coastal adventure.
Tezo ward
Kilifi County
Kenya
no-image
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Tezo Ward: Tourism, Dining, Accommodation, Entertainment and Attractions
Tezo ward in Kilifi County offers a relaxed coastal experience with warm hospitality, lush landscapes and easy access to some of Kenya’s finest beaches and wildlife encounters. Visitors typically combine sun and sea with cultural encounters, nature walks and quiet evenings by the coast. The area is well suited for travellers seeking a laid‑back itinerary, authentic experiences and opportunities to explore nearby towns and natural reserves.
Tourism
Tourism in Tezo is characterised by its proximity to both the Kenyan coast and inland forests. Visitors can enjoy shallow, safe beaches along the coast, take guided walks through local villages to learn about daily life, and venture to nearby nature reserves and forest reserves for birdwatching, hiking and wildlife spotting. Coastal sunsets, traditional music sessions and craft markets provide a flavour of Kilifi’s cultural heritage. For those with limited time, day trips to nearby towns offer a snapshot of coastal life, history, and maritime activity.
Dining
Dining options near Tezo focus on fresh seafood, coastal flavours and hearty Kenyan staples. Expect simple, welcoming eateries offering dishes that highlight the day’s catch, along with fruit, vegetables and staples typical of the region. Many venues emphasise informal, outdoor or verandah seating, allowing guests to enjoy breezes from the coast while sampling local flavours. For a more refined experience, some lodges and guesthouses provide on‑site dining with regional influences and local ingredients.
Accommodation
Accommodation in and around Tezo ranges from modest guesthouses to mid‑range boutique lodges and beachside cottages. Visitors can look for stays that offer direct access to the sea or garden courtyards, with emphasis on comfort, safety and warm Kenyan hospitality. Many properties organise village visits, guided walks and cultural evenings, which can enrich a stay. For travellers seeking a more remote or quiet retreat, coastal villages nearby often provide charming, understated lodging options with easy access to beaches and nature trails.
Entertainment
Entertainment here tends to be relaxed and community‑centred. Expect evenings of live music, storytelling, and opportunities to participate in local ceremonies or dances, especially during community events or market days. Beachfront bars and lodges sometimes host informal performances, while quiet cafés offer space to unwind after a day outdoors. For families and solo travellers alike, the pace is generally gradual, with evenings ideal for strolling along the shore and listening to the sounds of the sea.
Tourist Attractions
- Coastal beaches with shallow reefs and clear water suitable for swimming and snorkelling at suitable sites.
- Nearby forests and nature reserves offering birdwatching, nature walks and opportunities to spot endemic species.
- Nearby towns and markets where visitors can observe daily life, purchase local crafts and experience coastal culture.
- Historic and cultural sites within Kilifi County that provide insight into the region’s maritime heritage and Swahili influences.
Best Time to Visit
Kilifi enjoys a warm, tropical climate with sunny days most of the year. The dry seasons typically offer ideal beach and outdoor conditions, while the wet seasons bring lush scenery and fewer crowds. Early mornings and late afternoons are pleasant for outdoor activities, with calmer seas generally safer for swimming and water adventures. Consider planning around festive periods or local events to experience the culture and hospitality at its liveliest.
Practical Tips
- Transport: Local taxis and informal transport links are common. Arrange transfers through your accommodation if possible for safety and reliability.
- Safety: Keep valuables secure, use reputable guides for nature excursions, and stay hydrated in the heat.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly in villages and respectful attire around religious or cultural sites; greet people warmly in Swahili if possible (“Jambo” or “Habari”).
- Health: Carry sun protection, insect repellent and a basic first aid kit; drink bottled or purified water where appropriate.
Tezo ward offers a gentle, authentic coastal experience with opportunities to explore nature, enjoy regional flavours and connect with the welcoming people of Kilifi County. A well‑paced itinerary can balance beach time with cultural discovery, creating lasting memories of Kenya’s beautiful coast.