Things to Do in Watamu, Kenya

Watamu is a pristine coastal town located on Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline, approximately 120 kilometers north of Mombasa. This tropical paradise is renowned for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs that form part of the Watamu Marine National Park. The town serves as a gateway to some of Kenya's most spectacular marine biodiversity, making it a premier destination for snorkeling, diving, and deep-sea fishing enthusiasts. Beyond its marine attractions, Watamu offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with ancient Swahili ruins, sacred forests, and the nearby Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve providing opportunities for cultural exploration and wildlife viewing. The town maintains a laid-back atmosphere with a mix of luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and local guesthouses, making it accessible to travelers of all budgets while preserving its authentic coastal charm.

Top Things to Do in Watamu

Snorkeling at Watamu Marine National Park

Explore the pristine coral reefs of Watamu Marine National Park, home to over 600 species of fish and vibrant coral formations. The park's three main reefs - Coral Garden, Moray, and Turtle Reef - offer excellent visibility and diverse marine life including sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Glass-bottom boat tours are also available for non-swimmers to experience the underwater world.

Booking Tip: Book through certified operators for $25-40 per person including equipment and boat transfer. Best visibility is during high tide, typically 9 AM-2 PM. Look for operators who are Kenya Wildlife Service licensed and provide quality snorkeling gear.

Deep Sea Fishing

Experience world-class deep sea fishing in the waters off Watamu, known for marlin, sailfish, tuna, and dorado. The continental shelf drops dramatically just offshore, creating ideal conditions for big game fishing. Most operators practice catch and release, and the best fishing grounds are typically 10-20 nautical miles from shore.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters cost $800-1500 for up to 6 people, half-day trips $400-800. Book during peak season (October-March) well in advance. Choose operators with modern equipment, safety gear, and experienced local captains who know the fishing grounds.

Gede Ruins Exploration

Discover the mysterious 13th-century Swahili ruins of Gede, an ancient trading town that was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th century. The site features well-preserved structures including mosques, palaces, and houses, providing insight into medieval Swahili civilization. The ruins are surrounded by the Arabuko Sokoke Forest, adding to the mystical atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is $15 for non-residents. Hire a local guide for $10-15 for detailed historical context. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) to avoid heat and crowds. Combine with forest walks for better value.

Sea Turtle Conservation Experience

Visit the Local Ocean Trust's turtle rehabilitation center and participate in conservation activities including turtle monitoring, nest protection, and beach cleanups. During nesting season (April-July), you might witness turtle nesting or hatchling releases. The center also offers educational programs about marine conservation efforts in the region.

Booking Tip: Donations of $10-20 are appreciated for center visits. Turtle walks during nesting season cost $30-50 per person and must be booked in advance. Choose moonless nights for best nesting activity. Book through reputable conservation organizations only.

Mida Creek Mangrove Exploration

Explore the pristine mangrove ecosystem of Mida Creek by kayak or traditional dhow boat, observing diverse birdlife including flamingos, herons, and kingfishers. The creek is part of the Watamu Biosphere Reserve and offers excellent opportunities for photography and nature observation. Guided walks on the boardwalk provide educational insights into mangrove ecology.

Booking Tip: Kayak tours cost $25-35 per person for 2-3 hours, dhow trips $20-30. Best time is early morning or late afternoon for wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures. Book with eco-certified operators who support local conservation efforts.

Getting There

The most convenient way to reach Watamu is by flying into Malindi Airport, located just 20 kilometers away, which receives domestic flights from Nairobi (1.5 hours) and Mombasa (30 minutes). Alternatively, you can fly into Moi International Airport in Mombasa and take a 2-hour drive north along the coastal highway. By road, Watamu is accessible via a well-maintained tarmac road from Mombasa (120km) or Malindi (20km). Regular matatu (shared taxi) services operate between these cities, though private transfers or rental cars offer more comfort and flexibility for the journey.

Getting Around

Watamu is a small town easily explored on foot, with most hotels, restaurants, and beaches within walking distance of each other. Bicycle rentals are popular and cost around $5-10 per day, perfect for exploring the coastal paths and nearby attractions. Tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws) are readily available for short distances at $2-5 per trip, while motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas) offer quick and inexpensive transport for $1-3. For longer excursions to Gede Ruins or Arabuko Sokoke Forest, arrange taxi transfers through your accommodation or hire a local driver for the day at $50-80.

Where to Stay

Watamu Beach

Turtle Bay

Ocean Sports Area

Jacaranda Bay

Mida Creek

Watamu Town Center

Food & Dining

Watamu's dining scene offers a delightful mix of fresh seafood, Swahili cuisine, and international dishes. Beachfront restaurants serve excellent grilled fish, lobster, and prawns caught daily by local fishermen, often accompanied by coconut rice and traditional sides. Popular spots include Ocean Sports for casual dining, Pilipan Restaurant for authentic Swahili dishes, and Come Back Club for sunset cocktails and seafood. Many restaurants offer 'catch of the day' menus where you can select your fish from the daily catch. Local bars and beach clubs provide relaxed atmospheres with cold Tusker beers and tropical cocktails, while some upscale resorts offer fine dining experiences with fusion cuisine blending African, Arabic, and Indian influences.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Watamu is during the dry seasons from December to March and July to October, when you'll enjoy sunny skies, calm seas, and excellent visibility for water activities. December to March offers the warmest weather and is peak season for deep-sea fishing, though accommodation prices are highest. The period from July to October provides slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds while still maintaining good weather conditions. Avoid the heavy rains from April to June and November, when rough seas can limit marine activities and some establishments may close. For turtle nesting, visit between April and July despite the rains, while whale shark sightings are most common from October to April.

Insider Tips

Visit the weekly Watamu market on Fridays for fresh produce, spices, and local crafts at authentic prices

Book marine activities for early morning to avoid afternoon winds and enjoy calmer seas with better visibility

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when away from beach areas, and always ask permission before photographing local people

Things to Do in Watamu