Kenya’s premier south coast beach, Diani Beach, was graced in November 2005 with the coast’s first ‘Boutique’ hotel, The Sands, at Nomad.

Set on 225 meters of pristine greensward with uninterrupted vistas over one of the most beautiful stretches of this legendary beach, The Sands is the inspiration of the celebrated local artist, Mario Scianna, who is already renowned for his work in creating two of the south coast’s most stylish bars, Marco’s and Mario’s, at the adjacent Leopard Beach Hotel.

A unique fusion of hand-carved polished mahogany, soaring sail-work, classic Venetian ‘stucco’ and traditional Swahili architecture, The Sands nestles in 25 acres of indigenous coastal forest, where silken-coated colobus monkeys swing. Centered upon a 5 meter-deep futuristic pool with central gazebo, the sinuously curved central reception area features an atmospheric lounge with a shaded al fresco Jacuzzi terrace, a Romanesque bar, an al fresco restaurant offering excellent a la carte dishes, a boutique and global connectivity centre. Deep in the forest shade is a professional massage and nature treatments salon.

In keeping with the world-class style and innovative panache of the hotel’s conception, the accommodation comprises an individualistic selection of 18 comfortable rooms, 7 exclusive beach cottages and 12 luxurious suites, many with private Jacuzzis, panoramic terraces and spacious sitting rooms. All the rooms enjoy air-conditioning, integrated music and entertainment systems, private bars and 24-hour service, and all are individually interior designed and furnished with an inspired combination of Swahili objects d’art furniture and Mario’s finest mahogany woodwork.

The resort offers also a delightful wave-lapped beach bar and restaurant incorporating and an international dive school offering luxury launches, action sports and game fishing.

Unrivalled in terms of its idyllic situation, exclusivity and tranquility, The Sands is the first Kenyan coastal hotel to excel in the creation of the ‘Boutique’ concept. Unparalleled in terms of the discretion of its service, the excellence of its cuisine and the range of its leisure options, The Sands offers the ultimate Indian Ocean retreat .