Tijara Beach (formerly Tijara House) is an intimate retreat set on a seaside bluff amid 5 acres of private gardens, directly overlooking its own private beach. A small, owner-run lodge, Tijara accommodates a maximum of 8 guests, and is ideal for honeymooners or families seeking peace and quiet.
Tijara is perfect for those travellers who like to explore at their own pace. There are no fixed schedules here - you can dine at your convenience and take part in as few or as many activities as you choose. Many guests will want to simply relax and enjoy Tijara's private beach and gardens - five acres of semi-wild land, home to dikdik, bush buck, genet and lots of colourful birdlife - while others may want to take advantage of the activities available from the lodge, which include snorkelling, caving, and beach and reef walks. Within easy reach of Tijara Beach are a number of game reserves, a golf course, and the town of Mombasa, which can be explored on a guided tour. The available water activities include diving, deep sea fishing, kayaking and dolphin watching.
We love Tijara Beach. It’s small, intimate and very personal. While the beaches to the south of Mombasa have seen quite a lot of development in recent years, Tijara, which sits north of town, feels totally remote. The owners, Ian and Larissa, are generous but unimposing hosts. The atmosphere is decidedly relaxed, and there’s none of the tacky live entertainment that you find at so many of Kenya’s beach lodges.
Accommodation
Tijara House has just four beautifully-appointed cottages, each situated on its own coral cliff head. Expansive private decks rest on high stilts granting magnificent views of the turquoise waters below.
The cottages are a traditional Swahili design, with carved doors and high makuti (coconut thatch) roofs. The interiors are decorated with authentic Swahili furnishings made especially for the property by local craftsmen. Each room opens onto a large, partially-shaded deck where you can to bask in the sun or keep cool under the makuti thatch, refreshed by the gentle monsoon breezes.
All of Tijara's cottages are en-suite with double wash basins, showers and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. The honeymoon cottage has a king size bathtub.
Dining
Meals are generally served al-fresco in the open dining room, which is decorated with the same flair as Tijara's guest rooms, and which enjoys equally gorgeous views. If you wish to dine elsewhere, whether in the privacy of your cottage deck or on the beach, you can do so. The meals are all freshly cooked and discussed personally with guests beforehand – dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
The bar serves wine, beer, cocktails and soft drinks.
Facilities
Swimming Pool
Private beach
Lounge
Dining area
Spa (at additional cost)
Activities
On-site:
Snorkelling
Cave, reef, and beach walks
At additional cost:
Mombasa city tours
Diving, deep sea fishing, and kayaking
Elephant sanctuary
Shimba Hills Game Reserve
Child Policy
Families are welcome at Tijara Beach. Cots and extra beds can be provided on request.
Do keep in mind that Tijara Beach is a quiet lodge, and offers little in the way of children’s activities.
