Salty's Kitesurf Village Kenya: Your Epic African Kiteboarding Adventure Awaits!
Salty's Kitesurf Village Kenya: My Kiteboarding Dream (Mostly) Come True! – A Review That's Actually Honest
Okay, let's get real. You're looking for an epic kiteboarding adventure in Kenya, and Salty's Kitesurf Village is on your radar. Excellent choice! I just wrapped up my stay, and let me tell you, it was… well, it was something. Forget the polished brochures; this is my unfiltered, slightly chaotic, utterly honest take. Buckle up.
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Good, the… Okay… and the Stairs (Oh, the Stairs!)
Right off the bat, the location is stunning. Picture this: turquoise water, white sand, and kites dancing in the wind. It’s the kind of postcard-perfect view that makes you forget, for a moment, that you’re a sweaty, slightly clumsy human.
Accessibility: Let's address the elephant in the room. Accessibility is… limited. There are facilities for disabled guests, which is a huge plus, but navigating the resort itself requires some planning. Forget smooth, wheelchair-friendly paths, because… well, stairs are a thing. LOTS of stairs. This is something to REALLY consider if you have mobility issues. Otherwise, the lay of the land, is generally easy for some walking around.
Getting there is a breeze though! The airport transfer was smooth and hassle-free. Plus, they offer a car park (free of charge!), which is always a win.
Cleanliness & Safety: Peace of Mind, Mostly
Okay, the COVID situation. I’m a nervous-nelley, so this mattered. Salty’s gets points for making an effort. They have anti-viral cleaning products (phew!), and they’re on top of daily disinfection in common areas. Staff are definitely trained in safety protocol, and there's hand sanitizer everywhere. They also offer rooms sanitized between stays. You can even opt out of room sanitization, which is a nice touch.
I felt pretty safe overall. There's CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside the property, and 24-hour security. Plus, a smoke alarm is installed in the rooms, which is always a good thing. So, while not perfect, they've created a safe environment.
Rooms: Your Home Base
The rooms? Generally, they’re comfortable. Air conditioning is crucial (Kenya heat, people!), and they have free Wi-Fi in all rooms, which is a MUST for staying connected. You also have your basic room amenities like a hair dryer, in-room safe box, and a refrigerator for your drinks.
My room had an extra-long bed (bliss!) and blackout curtains, which were perfect for those post-kiteboarding naps. I could open a window for fresh air. Slippers, bathrobes, and complimentary tea & coffee were all nice little touches. They also provided free bottled water daily.
However… My room wasn’t spotless. There were a few… stragglers… left from the previous guests. One day, after, the daily housekeeping, my bathrobes were missing in the room, I had to call reception to bring the bathrobes in my room to the front desk. On top of that, there were some stains. Nothing major, but it wasn’t quite the pristine experience I was hoping for.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling Your Fun
The food at Salty’s is… varied. I’d say that international cuisine is the main focus. The breakfast buffet was decent, with a good selection of fruit, eggs, and pastries. They offer Asian breakfast options which is a thoughtful initiative. Coffee/tea in the restaurant at the main dining area got me going every morning, plus, one can try a coffee shop coffee.
There’s a poolside bar, which is perfect for a post-kite session beer, and a snack bar if you need a quick bite. They have restaurants on-site and offer 24-hour room service. You will find Western cuisine in restaurant and a vegetarian restaurant. Another thing to add to the convenience of food is the bottle of water.
However, sometimes, the options felt a bit… predictable. Don't expect Michelin star dining. But hey, you’re there for the kitesurfing, right?
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Beyond the Board
This is where Salty’s really shines. Obviously, the main draw is the kiteboarding, and the instructors are fantastic.
But what else?
- Swimming Pool: The outdoor swimming pool is incredible. I spent hours there, just soaking up the sun.
- Spa: They have a spa, and honestly, the massage was DIVINE. I had a body scrub and body wrap too, and I'm pretty sure I floated out of there. Pure bliss.
- Fitness Center: There's a fitness center, but let's be honest, I mostly stuck to the sun and the water. But it's there if you're feeling motivated!
- Other Relaxing Activities: There's a sauna, spa/sauna, and steamroom for some extra relaxation.
The Kiteboarding Itself: My Moment of Glory (And Humiliation)
Okay, back to the main event: kiteboarding. I went in as a complete beginner. I was nervous – visions of me getting dragged across the water flashed through my mind. The instructors were patient, encouraging, and genuinely invested in seeing you succeed. I took a lesson, and, after a few (okay, many) face-plants, I actually got up and rode! I felt pure adrenaline and joy. It was an incredible experience! I really appreciate the instructors for being calm and teaching me. I will definitely come back for more kiteboarding adventures!
Services and Conveniences: The Essentials
Salty's offers a bunch of services to make your stay easier, like daily housekeeping, a concierge, and laundry service. They even provide luggage storage, a lifesaver when you’re waiting for your flight. There's also a convenience store for last-minute essentials.
They have a cash withdrawal option, and offer currency exchange service. The front desk is 24-hour, which is convenient for any needs. They also have Air conditioning in public area.
For the Kids:
I didn’t have any kids with me, but I did see babysitting service available. The resort seems family/child friendly, with kids facilities and kids meal options.
Internet: Keeping Connected
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, and it works (usually). I said usually. The internet can be a bit patchy – prepare for occasional frustrating moments.
My Anecdote: The Great Coconut Catastrophe
Okay, this is a must-share. One afternoon, I was lounging by the pool, feeling like the king of the world. I ordered a coconut – a perfect tropical clichĂ©! – and they brought it to me. I, in my infinite wisdom, tried to open it myself. I swung… and completely missed! The coconut went flying, narrowly missing a group of women! I was mortified. I apologized profusely, but the look on their faces… priceless. They laughed, thankfully. Lesson learned: always ask for help with the coconut. And maybe stick to the kiteboarding.
Overall Vibe: Relaxed, Rustic, and Rad
Salty’s isn’t a luxury resort. It’s a bit rough around the edges, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where you can be yourself, mess up, and still have an amazing time. It’s got a relaxed, friendly vibe. The staff are generally helpful and friendly. Kenya’s a magical place, and Salty's makes a great basecamp for your kiteboarding adventure.
The Verdict:
Salty's Kitesurf Village Kenya is the real deal. It has a few imperfections, some minor hiccups, but it delivers on the promise of an epic kiteboarding adventure. It’s not perfect, but it’s authentic, fun, and unforgettable. So, go for it!
Now, for that irresistible booking prompt…
Ready to Chase the Wind and Live Your Kiteboarding Dream?
Book your unforgettable African escape at Salty's Kitesurf Village Kenya today!
Here's what you get:
- Unbeatable Kiteboarding: Learn from world-class instructors and ride the legendary Kenyan winds.
- Sun-Drenched Relaxation: Unwind in the stunning outdoor pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply soak up the sun.
- Delicious Dining: Fuel your adventure with tasty food and refreshing drinks at our on-site restaurants and bars.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Relax and recharge in our well-appointed rooms, complete with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and all the essentials.
- Unforgettable Memories: Create memories that will last a lifetime in a truly unique and breathtaking setting.
**Don't wait! Book your adventure now and get ready for the
Aupic Paradise: Saint Lucia's Hidden Heaven? (You Won't Believe This!)
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because here's my attempt at a Salty's Kitesurf Village Kenya trip planner. Which, let's be honest, is less a plan and more a… well, a vibe. Prepare for sand in your itinerary and questionable decisions.
Salty's Kitesurf Village: Kenya - The Almost-Comprehensive (and Totally Unreliable) Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival - From Chaos to Cocktails (and Crab)
- Morning (or whenever the hell my flight lands): Landed in Mombasa. The airport… let’s just say, it’s got that vintage-African-air-conditioning feel. Like a gentle breeze from a very old, very tired fan. The taxi to Salty's? A negotiation. A beautiful, sweaty, joyful negotiation. My driver, Moses, insisted on a playlist of Kenyan pop that was either genius or torture. Jury's still out.
- Midday: Arrive at Salty's. Initial reaction? "Ooh, this looks like a postcard!" (Cue dramatic sigh of relief after the airport-and-taxi experience). The welcome drink? A potent, delicious concoction. I think it involved pineapple and a whole lot of something else. Immediately started mentally composing my "leaving my life behind" speech.
- Afternoon: Check-in. Found my room. Turns out, "beachfront bungalow" means actually on the beach. Like, waves practically tickling my toes. This is going to be dangerous for my productivity (aka, my attempts to look vaguely like I’m working).
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Kitesurfing lesson #1. Or, more accurately, flailing spectacularly on a board while the instructor, the ridiculously tanned and patient Ali, tried to explain the wind. Managed to stand for, oh, a glorious two seconds. Felt like I'd conquered Everest. Dinner: Crab. Glorious crab. The kind that you crack with a mallet and get juice EVERYWHERE. Ate it on a table looking out at the ocean watching the stars. Total bliss. Except for the crab juice on my favourite shirt. Minor detail.
Day 2: Kitesurfing Shenanigans & a Beach Romance
- Morning: Kitesurfing lesson #2. More flailing. More water up my nose. Today, however, was special. The board actually moved slightly from the wind and I felt a rush. Then, got dragged a bit and almost lost my bikini top. Note to self: invest in industrial-strength swimwear.
- Midday: Lunch at the Salty's restaurant. Met a cute girl, "Sophie the surfer girl", named Sophie. Turns out, she's been coming here for years and knows all the secret spots. We're now, officially, best friends. We talk about everything from the best way to drink coconut to the worst.
- Afternoon: Attempted to practice my kitesurfing. Actually manage two strides and then an involuntary somersault into the ocean. Swallowed a lot of salt water. Sophie was laughing, bless her.
- Evening: Drinks. Maybe. With Sophie and some others. Got into a deep conversation about whether it's romantic to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean. Answer? YES. It's ridiculously romantic. Then again, everything feels ridiculously romantic when you're in Kenya, on a beach, with a cocktail.
Day 3: Diani Beach Bliss & Dolphin Dreams (Maybe) & A Moment of Pure, Unadulterated Peace (at least, for a few minutes..)
- Morning: Sleep in. Finally. Decided I am the type of person who can get away with doing absolutely nothing on a beach. Feel no guilt.
- Midday: Diani Beach. I'd heard it was stunning, and it was beyond that. It has that perfect white sand and turquoise water I've always dreamed about. Just, wow. Snorkeled, saw some amazing fish.
- Afternoon: Tried to book a dolphin-watching trip. Turns out everyone else had the same idea. Booked. Still, not going to hold my breath. (See what I did there?).
- Late Afternoon: Sunset drink. It was gorgeous.
- Evening: Had to get away from the other tourists a little. So, went for a walk down the beach, past the other hotels, and got to a spot where I was by myself, the moon was coming up, and I could hear the crashing waves. This was a pure moment. Just me, the Indian Ocean, and the absolute realization that I was incredibly lucky to find myself in such a magical place.
- Night: Dinner.
Day 4: Adventure with a Capital "A" & An Emergency Ice Cream Run
- Morning: Kitesurfing. Again. This time, the wind was really good. I did a very tiny jump. Triumph! (Followed by a faceplant. But still… triumph!).
- Midday: Day trip to Shimba Hills National Reserve. Elephants! Giraffes! Monkeys with questionable manners! A genuine safari experience. Started singing Hakuna Matata to myself. Embarrassed, but also, who cares?
- Afternoon: Back to the beach. Absolutely shattered from the safari. Needed, desperately, something sweet. An emergency ice cream run was required. (Chocolate, obviously).
- Evening: Dinner. And then, crashed. Hard.
Day 5: The Last Day - And That Ocean
- Morning: One last kitesurfing sesh. Felt a slight tug of sorrow as I realized it was my last day.
- Midday: Packing. Attempting to squeeze sand, memories, and a slightly sunburnt body back into my suitcase.
- Afternoon: One last, long, lingering look at the ocean. Sat on the beach, just watching the waves. Writing this, feels the emotion of being there. Thinking about all the things I did and didn't do.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Head to the airport. So, goodbye Salty's, goodbye Kenya. Goodbye, for now.
- Departure: On the plane home. Feeling a mix of exhaustion, bliss, and the urge to immediately book another trip back.
Final Thoughts:
This trip was messy. It was imperfect. I forgot sunscreen multiple times. I almost got swept out to sea (kidding, mostly). But it was also the best kind of imperfect. It was pure, unadulterated, Kenyan magic. And I’m already plotting my return. Now, where's that pineapple cocktail recipe…?
Irvine Spectrum's BEST Hotel? Unbelievable Review of the Western PLUS!
Salty's Kitesurf Village Kenya: Your Epic African Kiteboarding Adventure Awaits! (…Probably!)
Okay, Salty's… Sounds… salty. And Kenyan. Is this actually a real place, or am I dreaming?
Oh, it’s REAL. Vividly real. Think sun-baked sand, turquoise water, and a constant breeze that'll have you grinning like a maniac. I actually *felt* my brain cells turn to mush the first few days, just overwhelmed by the sensory overload of it all. The colors! The smells! The constant, glorious THWACK of kites filling with wind. Seriously, it took me a minute. Or six. Yeah, it's real. You're not dreaming. Unless you're dreaming of, like, perfect kiteboarding. Then… maybe a little dreaming is involved. đŸ˜‰
Where *exactly* is this Salty's magical… village? And how do I get there without, like, ending up eaten by a lion?
Salty's is nestled on the coast of Kenya, near a place called Watamu. Getting there is an adventure in itself! You can fly into Mombasa (MBA), then it’s a drive (maybe a slightly bumpy drive, be prepared for the 'African massage' roads!) Usually, the village will arrange a pickup and take you to the final destination. They arrange the pick up, which makes it significantly easier! Don’t worry about lions, though. Unless you're planning some late-night strolls in the bush… which, yeah, probably not a great idea. đŸ˜‰ But the most challenging part? Actually leaving once you've arrived. It's hard to leave the sunshine, the water and the people.
I’m a total kiteboarding newbie. Will I spend the whole time tangled in lines? Or am I doomed?
Doomed? No! Tangled lines? Possibly. But that's part of the fun, right? Salty's is GREAT for beginners. The instructors are patient (bless them!), the water's typically shallow and warm, and the wind… generally cooperates. I saw people go from absolute zero to… well, not world champions in a week, but definitely ripping around. I remember this one girl, Sarah, who was absolutely terrified of the kite. By the end of the week, she was practically *dancing* on the water. The staff really know how to make you feel comfortable and confident. Just expect to swallow some seawater – it's practically a rite of passage. And maybe a bit of sand. And a few tears of frustration. But mostly, tears of joy!
Okay, okay, I'm hooked. But what if I'm *already* a kiting rockstar? Is there anything for me?
Oh, absolutely! Salty's caters to all levels. There's plenty of space to ride, and the conditions are just *begging* for freestyle tricks. Plus, they often have clinics and advanced coaching, so you can really up your game. (I, on the other hand, stuck to basic upwind riding. Baby steps, people, baby steps). I spoke to this guy who practically INHALED the wind every day. He was doing backrolls and all sorts of crazy stuff. Apparently, there are even some secret spots for wave riding nearby. (Don't ask me where; I just stick to the flats!) There's always a chance to advance and improve, no matter how good you already think you are.
What's the vibe like at the village? Is it all posh glamping, or… something else?
Forget posh glamping. It's more… relaxed. Rustic-chic, maybe? Think comfortable, clean rooms with a distinct beachy vibe. The focus is on the kiteboarding and the community. The staff are super friendly and helpful. And yes, there’s definitely a communal feel. You’ll likely end up sharing meals with fellow kiters, swapping stories, and maybe even attempting a sunset beach bonfire (with varying degrees of success). Some days, you'll feel like you've known everyone for years. Other days I was happy to be a hermit with my book and a cold Tusker. But there is that community feel. Embrace it!
Food! Because, let's be honest, I'm going to need fuel for all that kiting… What's the food situation?
The food is… AMAZING. Seriously. Fresh seafood, delicious curries, and plenty of fruit. They cater for everyone, and make sure there is always something for someone. I'm vegetarian, and I can tell you that there were plenty of options for me! (And I'm picky!) Breakfast, lunch and dinner, all included. Don’t expect Michelin-star service, but you will get delicious, hearty meals that will keep you fueled for hours. And the sundowners? They're a ritual. Picture this: fresh seafood, cold beer, good company, and a blazing African sunset over the ocean. Pure bliss. I still dream of those sundowners. Actually, I'm pretty sure I went through a phase where I just wanted to live at Salty's *forever*.
What should I pack? And do I need to remortgage my house to go?
Pack light, people! Swimsuits, rash guards, sunscreen (the *strongest* stuff!), a hat, sunglasses, and maybe a light jacket for the evenings. And bug spray! Seriously, the mosquitoes… they're relentless. As for remortgaging… it’s not cheap, but it's also not ridiculously expensive. Check their website for current prices, but think about the cost of accommodation, lessons, food, and drinks (because you *will* want those sundowners!). It is a bit of an investment, but the experience? Worth every penny. Consider travel insurance! It's always a good idea!
What about the internet? Because, let's face it, I'm addicted…
The internet… exists. Kinda. It's not the fastest connection in the world. Think of it as a good way to *disconnect* from the digital world and connect with the real one. Embrace the opportunity to be present, people. You're in Kenya! Live a little! If you absolutely *need* to check your emails, it’s available, but don’t expect to stream HD movies or download massive files. I’d say, go in with low expectations and celebrate if it works. I found it a HUGE relief to be away from my phone. And yeah, I missed a ton of work calls. But I had so much fun, I didn't care.
