looking for a tropical escape filled with soft white sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking scenery, Watamu Beach should be on your bucket list. Nestled along Kenya’s coastline, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture.
Overview
Watamu, meaning “home of sweet people” in Swahili, lives up to its name with its warm and welcoming locals. Historically, this coastal village was a small fishing community. Over time, its pristine beaches and rich marine life transformed it into a favorite destination for tourists and conservationists. Watamu Marine National Park, established in 1968, is among Africa’s oldest marine parks, protecting its stunning coral reefs and diverse sea life. Watamu is a cosmopolitan town as it has a diverse population and international appeal. With a blend of locals and expatriates from various countries, particularly Italians and Arabs, it attracts tourists and residents from around the world.
Fun Fact: Watamu was once named one of the world’s top ten beaches by TripAdvisor.
Watamu Beach Location
Watamu Beach is located in Kilifi County, 107 kilometers north of Mombasa and 22.3 kilometers south of Malindi. Watamu village lies on a headland between the Blue Lagoon and Watamu Bay. Its strategic position along the Indian Ocean makes it easily accessible yet far enough to offer a tranquil weekend getaway escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
How to Get to Watamu from Nairobi
By Road: From Nairobi, Watamu is about 558 kilometers away. The drive takes 8-9 hours, depending on traffic and break stopovers. Follow the Mombasa Road (A109) towards Mombasa, then turn onto the Malindi Highway (A14) after Mariakani. Along the way from Nairobi you are guaranteed to see Tsavo National Parks and Voi town and if lucky enough you’ll see wildlife. After reaching Malindi, it’s a 30-minute drive south to Watamu.
By Train: The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Nairobi to Mombasa offers a scenic and comfortable option. The journey takes around 6 hours. Upon arrival at the Mombasa train terminal, hire a taxi or use public means (shared minibus) for a 2-hour drive to Watamu via Kilifi and Gede.
By Air: For the quickest route, take a daily domestic flight from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport landing in Malindi Airport, a 45-60minutes flight journey. From Malindi Airport, Watamu is just 30-minute drive away.
Why You Should Visit Watamu Beach?
Watamu Beach offers more than just a picturesque shoreline, it offers an experience. Its serene environment is perfect for relaxation, while its vibrant marine life, cultural heritage, and thrilling activities cater to every kind of traveler. From boating experiences, skydiving, beach sports, snorkeling, sea diving, surfboarding just to mention but a few, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Along Watamu’s shorelines the beach offers some of the most luxury beach resorts in Watamu together with famous attractions near Watamu beach i.e. Gede Ruins.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Watamu for an enjoyable Kenya Beach Holiday is during the dry seasons which runs from July to October and January to March. During these months, the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the ocean is calm, making it ideal for water sports and beach activities.
Top Attractions at Watamu Beach
Watamu Marine National Park: Explore coral gardens teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.
Fun Fact: Watamu’s coral reefs are over 500 years old, hosting some of the richest marine biodiversity in the world.
Arabuko Sokoke Forest: A haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, home to rare species like the Sokoke Scops Owl.
Gede Ruins: Discover the mysterious 13th-century Swahili town hidden in the forest.
Mida Creek: A stunning mangrove-lined waterway perfect for kayaking, bird watching, and sunset dhow cruises.
Fun Fact: The name "Mida" comes from the Giriama word for "temporary place," reflecting the shifting tides.
Marafa-Hell's Kitchen: A natural sandstone canyon with unique formations, just a short drive from Watamu.
Best things to do in Watamu Beach
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Watamu’s coral reefs.
Deep-Sea Fishing: Test your skills against marlins and sailfish in one of the world’s best fishing spots.
Kite Surfing and Paddleboarding: Ride the waves or paddle along the serene coastline.
Dhow Cruises: Enjoy a traditional sailing experience, especially during sunset.
Turtle Watching: Witness turtles nesting or hatching at Turtle Bay.
Fun Fact: Watamu is a critical nesting site for endangered green and hawksbill turtles, with active conservation programs.
Visit Bio-Ken Snake Farm: Learn about the region’s snakes and their conservation efforts.
Accommodations at Watamu Beach
Watamu offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets.
Luxury seekers can enjoy the beachfront elegance of Hemingways Watamu or Jacaranda Resort Watamu Kenya, while those on a budget can find cozy cottages, Villas, Apartments, Hostels or Hotels near Watamu beach. Those looking for a family-friendly resort, Turtle Bay Beach Resort Watamu and Temple Point Resort are a better option, providing family-friendly activities and a kid’s club, making sure kids are attended to and well taken care of.
Is Watamu beach free? Watamu Beach is absolutely free of charge, with no entry fee charges. However, if you prefer to engage in special activities like boat rides and renting beach facilities, additional charges may be required. These activities are optional and designed to enhance your holiday experience at Watamu Beach.
What to Pack for your visit to Watamu beach.
For a seamless and more enjoyable Watamu Kenya Safari at the beach, Get to Pack; light & breathable clothing, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and comfortable footwear for exploring. Don’t forget your swimsuit, snorkeling gear (if you have it), a waterproof camera for underwater shots, and insect repellent for forest adventures. Ladies! the best dress colors for sea beach are blue, yellow, coral, light gray or powder blue.
Watamu Beach is open daily!
Get a taste of nature
