The Art of Doing Nothing: Your Ultimate Guide to a Beach Holiday

Seating arrangement overlooking the Indian Ocean at the kisiwani bar, Bahari Hotel, Nyali.

Remember that feeling of finally reaching your holiday destination, dropping your bags, and realizing you have an entire week with nothing on the agenda? No meetings, no deadlines, no endless to-do list. Just you, the sound of the ocean, and the blissful prospect of doing absolutely nothing.

In a world that constantly pushes us to ‘do more’ and ‘be more,’ the art of doing nothing is a radical act of self-care. It’s about being present, not productive. And there’s no better place to practice this glorious art form than on the sun-kissed shores of Nyali Beach, Mombasa, a perfect escape from the daily grind.

At Bahari Beach Hotel, we get it. Sometimes, the best itinerary is no itinerary at all. Here’s a gentle guide to mastering the art of the perfect, do-nothing beachfront holiday.

Step 1: Ditch the Schedule and Embrace the Sunrise

The early morning in coastal Kenya is a magical time. Forget your alarm clock. The gentle lapping of the Indian Ocean will be your wake-up call. Pull back the curtains and step onto your balcony, a mug of freshly brewed coffee in hand. Watch as the sun paints the sky with hues of orange, pink, and gold, casting a warm glow over the tranquil water. You don’t have to go anywhere or be anywhere. This moment is just for you.

Notice the local fishermen preparing their nets for the day, their dhows bobbing gently on the tide. This is the rhythm of life on the coast, a slow and steady beat that invites you to slow down, too.

Step 2: Find Your Spot (And Stick to It)

Your mission for the day is to find the perfect spot to do absolutely nothing. It could be a sun lounger by one of our sparkling pools, where the only decisions you’ll make are “should I swim now or later?” or “one more chapter of this book?”

Or perhaps it’s a quiet patch of sand, a towel laid out under the shade of a palm tree. Listen to the symphony of the beach: the whisper of the waves, the distant laughter of gulls, and the soft rustle of the sea breeze. This isn’t about rushing to the next activity. It’s about settling in and letting the world melt away.

Step 3: Let Your Senses Lead the Way

The outside veranda of the main restaurant at Bahari Beach Hotel, Nyali.

A holiday at the Mombasa coast is a full-sensory experience. Instead of scrolling through your phone, engage with what’s around you.

Taste: Head to our open-air restaurant and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors of Swahili cuisine. Try some grilled seafood caught just that morning or a sweet, ripe mango. The focus is on enjoying every single bite. Check out our diverse dining options to see what’s on the menu.

Smell: Take a deep breath. Can you smell the salty air mixed with the sweet scent of frangipani blossoms? It’s the official perfume of the coast.

Sound: Close your eyes and tune into the rhythmic sound of the waves. It’s a natural stress-buster, a soothing soundtrack to your day.

Feel: Wiggle your toes in the warm, powder-soft sand. Feel the gentle mist of the ocean spray. Experience the warmth of the sun on your skin, the cool relief of a dip in the pool.

Step 4: The Day Trip That's Not Really a Trip

Just because you’re doing nothing doesn’t mean you can’t be a little bit adventurous. Try a low-effort, high-reward activity. Why not take a leisurely stroll down the beach? Watch the traditional dhows glide across the horizon.

If you’re feeling a slight urge for some movement, explore the vibrant marine life just off our shores. Or perhaps, a simple, slow sunset cruise. But remember, the goal isn’t to see everything. It’s to appreciate what’s right in front of you.

Mombasa is home to incredible cultural and natural wonders, from the ancient ruins of Jumba la Mtwana to the marine biodiversity of the Mombasa Marine National Park. But don’t feel pressured to visit them all. Your “trip” can be as simple as a slow walk along the water’s edge at low tide.

Step 5: Master the Sunset Ritual

A seating arrangement with two seats at Bahari Beach hotel overlooking the indian ocean at Mombasa, Nyali

As the day winds down, find your spot again. This time, it’s for the grand finale. The Mombasa sunset is a spectacle. The sky transforms into a masterpiece of purples, reds, and fiery oranges. This is the perfect moment to reflect, to let go, and to just be. No need for a selfie or a perfect photo. Just be present.

The Art of Doing Nothing isn’t a passive activity. It’s a mindful choice to slow down, to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. It’s about giving yourself permission to simply exist without a purpose or a plan.

Ready to book your holiday and start mastering this beautiful art form? We’ve got the perfect setting waiting for you. From our cozy hotel rooms to our tranquil gardens and expansive beachfront, every part of Bahari Beach Hotel is designed for your total relaxation.

Take a moment to explore our website and start planning your perfect, do-nothing getaway. We can’t wait to welcome you.