Below Mombasa, on the south coast, lies Tiwi Beach: fine white
sand, palm trees casting long shadows over the turquoise water.It is quieter and more pristine than the neighbouring Diana Beach. Along the coast, local fishermen live in harmony with the sea and its tides. Knowledge of currents, wind patterns, and fishing times has been passed down for centuries from one generation to the next. Fishing is traditionally done in wooden sailboats, known as “dhows,” using nets, baskets, harpoons, or spears. The locals take advantage of low tide to collect shell-fish, crabs, sea cucumbers, and algae. It is also only then that, small natural pools form, home to sea urchins and starfish, where visitors can swim and snorkel. Kenya’s coastline is shaped by unique yet fragile ecosystems: alongside coral reefs, mangrove forests, and lagoons, it is cru-cial to protect the nesting sites of sea turtles. These animals help maintain healthy seagrass beds and reefs, support nutri-ent cycles and a rich variety of species. That is why the self-or-ganised “Turtle Police” take care of the endangered animals: rangers and volunteers patrol the beaches and monitor the nests, only relocating them when high water, poachers or oth-er dangers pose a threat.
