Elewana AfroChic 

This exclusive property is a villa-style boutique hotel that fronts the white sands of beautiful Diani Beach.

With just ten rooms, AfroChic feels more like an exclusive villa than a hotel. Part of the Elewana Collection, its home-from-home atmosphere makes it a little gem amongst the larger hotels on the Diani beachfront.

There are no fixed dining times here – just let the staff know when suits you. The dining room has an international à la carte menu and serves up some excellent fish dishes. If you want a romantic al fresco dinner, ask for a table to be set up at the beach gazebo.

AfroChic has an eclectic decor and no two rooms are the same. All have a traditional African design, wooden bedframes, local artwork, a private balcony or terrace with sun loungers and garden or ocean views. Amenities include tea and coffee facilities, a TV, iPod sound dock and in-room Wi-Fi. Upgrade to the Executive Suite for plusher furnishings and a Jacuzzi bath in the bathroom.

The surroundings offer plenty of beach- and water-based activities, like exploring the reef at low tide with a local fisherman or joining a small group snorkelling trip to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park. On land, take an island tour of Mombasa or tee off at the 18-hole championship golf course nearby, which has a large lake and plays host to bird life and monkeys.