Kenya · The Coast
Watamu
- Properties
- 4
- Luxury
- 2
- Mid-range
- 2
Overview
Watamu is Kenya's most ecologically significant coastal destination, a compact village on the northern coast where conservation, community, and extraordinary natural beauty converge in a way unique on the African coast.
The Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve, gazetted in 1968 as Kenya's first marine park, protects one of the most biodiverse coral reef systems in the Western Indian Ocean. The park is home to over 600 fish species, five species of marine turtle, and seasonal whale sharks that pass through the bay, making Watamu one of the few places in the world where whale shark encounters can be reliably arranged.
Adjacent to the park, Mida Creek is a vast mangrove estuary of exceptional birding importance. Local Ocean Conservation runs one of Africa's most respected sea turtle conservation programmes, and visitors can participate in turtle tagging, beach patrols, and hatchery visits.
Watamu is also the centre of Kenya's kite surfing scene, with a colony of Italian expats who have built world-class facilities and dining. The historic Gede Ruins, a 12th-century Swahili trading town in the coastal forest, adds a remarkable cultural dimension.
When to go
Best SeasonOct to Mar
Kite SurfingJan to Mar, Jul to Sep
Whale SharksOct to Feb
Avoid Long RainsApr to May
Turtle nestingOct to Mar
- This month
- Best Season
- Peak diving and snorkelling visibility. Warmest, sunniest weather. Turtle nesting season Oct–Mar. November particularly excellent for diving.
- Kite Surfing
- Strong, consistent trade winds. January–March especially favoured.
- Whale Sharks
- Best window for encounters, though not guaranteed.
- Avoid Long Rains
- Reduced water visibility. Some properties close.
Park fees
| Marine park / Activity | Non-resident | EA citizen | EA resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Watamu Marine National Park, Adult | USD 25 / visit | KES 500 / visit | KES 675 / visit |
| Watamu Marine National Park, Child | USD 15 / visit | KES 250 / visit | KES 350 / visit |
Charged per visit at the gate, and only for boat, snorkelling and diving trips into the marine park: there is no fee for using the beach. Under 5 free. Ages 5–17 pay the child rate. East African citizen and resident rates are charged in Kenyan shillings.
Park fees are not included in accommodation rates and are added at quotation stage. Effective October 2025, reverified annually.
Watamu in pictures
Where you'll stay
Luxury · 2
- Photos to come
Hemingways Watamu
Named for the great American writer, a boutique property of 18 suites on Watamu Bay with the informal elegance and genuine warmth that distinguishes the Hemingways group. One of four Hemingways properties in Kenya, known for exceptional food, personal service, and a tradition of game fishing that Ernest Hemingway himself would have appreciated. The location on the bay provides direct access to Watamu Marine National Park and the whale shark snorkelling that makes Watamu one of the world's most remarkable ocean experiences. A long-running favourite among Nairobi's discerning travellers.
Bed and breakfastBoutique Luxury Hotel
Luxury - Photos to come
Medina Palms
An Arabesque-inspired luxury retreat, 32 suites in Moorish architecture with detailed carved plasterwork, open courtyards, and an aesthetic that reflects the Indian Ocean's centuries of Arab trading influence. Each suite has its own private garden or plunge pool. Known for meticulous service, exceptional cuisine, and a genuinely romantic atmosphere that makes it a consistent choice for honeymoons and anniversary celebrations. The integration of Swahili architectural tradition with contemporary comfort is executed with rare care.
Bed and breakfastBoutique Beach Resort
Luxury
Mid-range · 2
- Photos to come
Ocean Sports Resort
Watamu's original dive resort, a no-frills, sports-focused property where the conversation is about the dive conditions rather than the thread count of the sheets. 30 rooms of honest comfort organised around a PADI dive centre and game fishing operation. Known for excellent guiding on the marine park, a convivial bar popular with the Watamu diving community, and a genuinely enthusiastic team of water-sports specialists. The choice for serious divers and anglers who want to be in the water rather than by the pool.
Bed and breakfastSports & Diving Resort
Mid-range - Photos to come
Turtle Bay Beach Club
Watamu's established all-inclusive anchor, 145 rooms on Watamu Bay offering a comprehensive all-in package with activities, food, and drinks. Known for an excellent programme of water sports, a good dive centre, and enthusiastic management of the marine park access. The scale allows comprehensive resort amenities including a kids club and evening entertainment. A reliable choice for families and groups seeking value on an all-inclusive basis in a genuinely beautiful marine park setting.
Bed and breakfastAll-Inclusive Beach Resort
Mid-range
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Frequently asked questions
Anything not answered here, a consultant answers directly. More planning questions are on the FAQ page.
Peak diving and snorkelling visibility. Warmest, sunniest weather. Turtle nesting season Oct–Mar. November particularly excellent for diving.
Charged per visit at the gate, and only for boat, snorkelling and diving trips into the marine park: there is no fee for using the beach. Under 5 free. Ages 5–17 pay the child rate. East African citizen and resident rates are charged in Kenyan shillings.
Watamu is Kenya's most ecologically significant coastal destination, a compact village on the northern coast where conservation, community, and extraordinary natural beauty converge in a way unique on the African coast.