About Watamu
Watamu is a pristine coastal destination and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, combining stunning white sand beaches with the incredible Watamu Marine National Park. This laid-back paradise offers world-class snorkeling among vibrant coral gardens, swimming with sea turtles, and exploring the ancient Gede Ruins and Arabuko Sokoke Forest.
Highlights
- Watamu Marine National Park
- Sea turtle watching and conservation
- Vibrant coral reefs
- Arabuko Sokoke Forest
- Gede Ruins (13th century)
- Dolphin spotting
- Kite surfing
- Pristine uncrowded beaches
Activities
- Snorkeling and diving
- Sea turtle watching
- Dolphin spotting trips
- Arabuko Sokoke forest walks
- Gede Ruins exploration
- Kite surfing
- Dhow cruises
- Deep sea fishing
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry, hot)June to October (pleasant)Turtle nesting: March-July
Essential Information
Weather & Climate
Tropical climate (26-32°C). Northeast monsoon: November-March. Southeast monsoon: April-October. Less crowded than Diani.
Wildlife
Sea turtles (Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley), Dolphins, Whale sharks, Coral reef fish, Colobus monkeys, 300+ bird species
Getting There
By air: Nairobi-Malindi (1 hour) then 30 min drive. By train: Madaraka Express to Mombasa, then 2.5 hours drive. By road: 9 hours from Nairobi.
Accommodation
Boutique hotels, eco-lodges, resorts. Hemingways Watamu, Turtle Bay Beach Club, Ocean Sports. More laid-back than Diani.
Travel Tips
Visit Turtle Watch for conservation. Snorkel at low tide. Explore Mida Creek by canoe. Try Swahili seafood.
Park Fees
Marine Park fees: Adult $20/day, Child $15/day
Tours in Watamu
Popular Tours
Masai Mara Luxury Safari Adventure
Diani Beach Tropical Paradise
Watamu Marine Park & Beach Retreat
Tsavo East & West Ultimate Safari
Other Destinations
Lake Nakuru
Rift Valley
Mount Kenya
Central
Laikipia
Northern
