Uthman Bakari
Diani, Kwale.
Two leading beachfront resorts in Diani were severely damaged on Friday afternoon after a fast-moving fire tore through the Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa and spread to the neighboring Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort, sending thick plumes of smoke over one of Kenya’s most visited coastal destinations.
The blaze is believed to have started at Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa before being propelled by strong coastal winds toward the adjacent Diamonds Leisure property.
Eyewitness videos shared on X showed flames engulfing thatched roofs, wooden walkways, and vegetation separating the two hotels. One viral clip captured the moment windborne embers sparked a secondary blaze across the boundary.
Emergency crews from the Kwale County Fire Department, backed by the Kenya Red Cross, responded swiftly. By Friday evening, firefighters had brought the inferno under control.
Authorities confirmed there were no fatalities or serious injuries, and all guests and staff were evacuated in good time.
Both resorts, however, sustained extensive structural damage. At Diani Reef, the main wing and several guest facilities were gutted. At Diamonds Leisure, multiple beachfront bungalows and part of the clubhouse overlooking the golf course were destroyed.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Early indications point to a possible electrical malfunction, though Kwale County disaster management officials and the National Fire Safety Authority are conducting a full assessment to determine the precise origin.
Guests from the two properties have been relocated to nearby hotels. Management teams at both resorts have pledged full refunds, rebooking assistance, and continued support for affected visitors.
Despite the incident, Diani Beach remains open to tourists, and no other establishments have been impacted.
County authorities have urged all coastal hotels to urgently review and strengthen fire-safety protocols in the wake of the blaze.