This paper examines CP levels and performance outcomes of four community-based tourism projects in the Coastal region of Kenya that has been witnessing a steadily increasing number of tourists. The attraction of visitors to this region has been due to its relatively well developed first class establishment that are juxtaposed in close proximity to pristine glistering tropical sandy beaches and world renowned wildlife attractions. The region is thus a major popular destination for international visitors, especially Europeans, North Americans, and in the recent past the Oriental Asians. Conspicuously however, the local communities that host these natural and cultural heritage and who are also in close proximity with the quality and integrity of this tourism resource base are not adequately benefitting. From this misnomer arose the purpose of this study in which examination of CP levels and performance outcomes that characterize the community-based tourism initiatives were interrogated. The study that had proceeded with the premise that community participation levels and performance outcomes in planning and decision making are a uniform process was rejected. Rather, they were found to be differentiated processes over its attendant institutions. Thus CP and performance outcomes, and consequently governance were found to have major disparities at intra- and inter-community tourism initiatives, suggesting that the level of governance is somewhat different as members’ role in influencing planning and decision making varied significantly among the case studies. This was well captured by data gathered from both longitudinal and cross-sectional surveys. The empirical data were supplemented with policy documents fromNGOs and government agency reports. The data were thereafter analysed for patterns and trends in levels of community participation and performance outcomes at different community-based tourism projects using qualitative and quantitative statistical techniques. The research hypotheses were brought to close with the aid of computer software SPSS, which generated information to inform a management set of policy alternatives that would enhance community participation and hence good governance in community-based tourism initiatives not only in the coastal region of Kenya but also provide a good model for Kenya’s other regions to copy. Above all the study recommends that participation be embraced at all stages of planning and decision making,and be as transparent as possible as this is likely to make members more satisfied and committed even when they disagree with the leadership of these projects.
