Shiko-Msa

I’ve always had the feeling that Kilifi as a holiday destination is under explored, under mentioned, under advertised. Maybe because I’m guilty of relegating it to the back of my mind, always zooming past it on my way to other destinations further North. The beautiful town comes off as unfairly drowned in the hype of Mombasa, Malindi and Diani as coastal holiday destinations.

Studio Apartment Interior.

But its a beach town like any other and is well represented when it comes to beautiful hide aways. Tucked just 6 Km from Kilifi bridge for example is the comely Bofa Beach Resort. Set within a small grove of indigenous trees, the resort offers a new kind of experience with spacious walk-in canvas tents with twin/queen-size beds, private bathrooms, overhead cooling fans and private verandas.

You might be under whelmed when you arrive at the Bofa Beach Resort’s parking lot because its all gravel with little else in sight. But once you make your way past the reception, a lush green area hosting 12 tents and 2 fully furnished self catering studio apartments awaits you.

Though parts of the resort are still under construction, its fully functional and one can already see how spectacular the end result will be. The owner cleverly opted to kill two birds with one stone by having tents as guest quarters. One, the canvas tents are a unique and welcome experience. You simply zip up your house and sleep. Two, he has not distressed the property with the rigours of heavy construction, therefore leaving the trees and greenery mostly untouched. Other than giving the place an outdoorsy feel, this has the distinct effect of toning down the sweltering heat of the Coast.

The resort does not operate a beach bar but with the beach just 5 minutes away by foot, it (beach bar) can be created on request. What they do have however are submerged bar stools at the swimming pool which is close to the main bar, restaurant, conference room and kitchen. For your sipping pleasure as you swim.

For those who are into small intimate outdoor events, there is an excellent event venue on one side of the resort. A nice little garden with well tended grass and beautiful flowers.

When I visited Bofa, lunch was a platter of smoked pork, deep friend potatoes and assorted julienne vegetables. Simple and really delicious.

Tent Interior.

Pocket friendly is Bofa Beach Resort. Kshs.3,500/- per day for a studio apartment and Kshs.2,000/- for a tent.

See Also: Rays Place Kericho