The countdown is over as the 2026 edition of Summer Tides officially begins today, Thursday, July 2, at Lost Beach Club in Malindi, bringing together music lovers, holidaymakers and revellers for one of Kenya’s biggest annual beach festivals.
Running until July 4, this year’s event marks a new chapter for the festival after relocating from Diani to Malindi. Organisers say the move is aimed at expanding the experience while showcasing Malindi as a growing destination for entertainment and coastal tourism.
“Three days, two stages and thousands of revellers are expected on the Kenyan coast.”
Festival organisers have described Summer Tides as Africa’s premier beach festival, promising a packed programme featuring local and international DJs, live performances, beach activities, food experiences and lifestyle activations. Two entertainment stages will host performances across genres including Afrobeats, Amapiano, House, EDM, Dancehall and R&B.
Malindi braces for influx of visitors
Authorities and hospitality businesses have spent the past several days preparing for the arrival of thousands of visitors expected to descend on the coastal town.
According to local officials, hotels, holiday homes and Airbnb properties in Malindi and surrounding areas have reached full occupancy ahead of the festival. Organisers estimate that more than 15,000 people will attend the three-day event, making it one of the largest gatherings the town has hosted in recent years.
A new home for the festival
This year’s edition is being staged at Lost Beach Club, located along Malindi’s coastline. The venue offers direct access to the beach and has been redesigned to accommodate multiple stages, food vendors, VIP experiences and lifestyle attractions.
Besides music performances, attendees can take part in beach games, water activities, sunrise sessions and curated food experiences celebrating both local Swahili cuisine and international flavours.
The festival is open only to adults aged 18 and above, with organisers requiring valid identification for entry. Visitors have also been advised to carry digital or printed tickets and use designated transport services to access the venue.
This year’s relocation to Malindi is expected to further boost the local tourism economy as thousands of visitors spend the long weekend on Kenya’s northern coast.
As gates open today, the focus now shifts from months of planning to three days of music, entertainment and coastal experiences that organisers hope will make the 2026 edition one of the festival’s biggest yet.
“Summer Tides returns with a new venue, a larger footprint and thousands of visitors expected over the long weekend.”
