An Unforgettable Stay at Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort

By Ieva Staveckaite

A blissful haven located right on the beach-front, Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort exceeded all my expectations. The 4-star hotel is equipped with an outdoor pool, as well as private beach access, boosting exclusivity. The rhythmic sound of beating waves lull you to sleep, as you rest your head on your pillow each night and remind you, you’re in paradise, as you wake each morning.

The property is made up of charming thatched cottages ranging in size, with a number having their own outdoor Jacuzzis. There are garden rooms, sea view rooms and beach-front rooms to choose from. All are rich with Swahili inspired décor. I had the privilege of being housed in two different cottages as an overnight safari experience broke up my stay. Both were comprised of one large room consisting of an enormous double bed, as well as a single one, an en-suite bathroom and a small terrace from which you could take in the surrounding environs, from the up-to-no-good monkeys, who roam the premises in search of food, to the burning orange sun setting on the horizon.

The Spices Restaurant, with its breath-taking view of the teal coloured waters, serves a buffet-style breakfast and dinner each day. Snacks are available at the bar located by the main swimming pool, and tea and coffee, as well as sweet treats, are brought out daily at 4 pm. Based on the time of year, as well as the number of guests, lunch is also on offer either in the form of a buffet or by ordering individual dishes from an a la carte menu.

For an extra special evening meal, amongst the glistening stars, be sure to request seating in the attached outside balcony. Every meal was full of extremely fresh and flavoursome ingredients, so be sure to try out as much as you can! Refreshing cocktails can be ordered at a number of bars located around the resort, and evenings are never short of entertainment.

Planned activities, such as water yoga and beach volleyball, run throughout the day, and for those seeking excitement beyond the resort’s borders, there are countless safari trips, glass-bottom boat rides and national parks to be conquered. The friendly staff are more than willing to help you arrange such tours, providing you with the best information. Having booked our safari expedition in advance, we opted to add a snorkelling adventure upon arrival to the hotel, which did not disappoint.

Overall my time at Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort was nothing short of a dream. A tranquil escape like no other!

Click here to find out all about my safari experience at Tsavo East National Park!