Watamu, Kenya: Turtles, Reefs and Quiet Beaches
Marine parks, turtles and quiet beaches on Kenya's north coast. Here is how to plan Watamu.
Destination guide
Watamu: the complete guide
Watamu is a small beach town on Kenya's north coast, known for its curved white bays, coral reef and sea turtles. The marine park protects the reef, the mangrove creek and the old Swahili ruins nearby make it more than a beach stop, and the tropical forest next door is a haven for birds and rare small mammals.
Here is what to do at Watamu, when to go and how to reach it.
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Tours featuring Watamu
01
Why visit Watamu
Watamu has a relaxed small-town feel. The bays are sheltered by coral reef, so the water inside is calm and clear, and the marine park offers some of the best snorkelling in Kenya.
Local conservation groups work to protect green turtles and other sea creatures, and visitors can learn about turtle rescue and rehabilitation. Humpback whales pass along the coast in some months, usually from around August to October.
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What to do at Watamu
Snorkelling and diving
Boat trips to the marine park reefs for coral, fish and sometimes turtles.
Mida Creek
A mangrove-lined tidal creek with a boardwalk, birds and canoe trips.
Gede Ruins
The remains of a Swahili town abandoned in the 17th century, set in forest with monkeys and birds.
Arabuko-Sokoke Forest
Guided walks for rare birds and the golden-rumped elephant shrew.
Turtle conservation visit
Learn about turtle rescue and protection at a local conservation centre.
Kitesurfing and fishing
Wind and sea conditions suit kitesurfing in some months, and deep-sea fishing runs from the coast.
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Best time to visit
December to March
Great
Hot and dry with calm sea. Peak season.
July to October
Great
Cooler, breezy, with good visibility and whale season.
April to June
Green/Wet
The long rains. Many hotels reduce rates or close.
November
Good
Short rains, quieter beaches.
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How to get to Watamu
By road
About 100 km from Mombasa, 1.5 to 2 hours.
By air
Fly to Malindi airport, then a short transfer to Watamu.
Transfers
We arrange all airport and train transfers.
05
Combining Watamu with other places
Watamu works well after a safari in Tsavo East or the Maasai Mara, or alongside Arabuko-Sokoke Forest and Mombasa.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Watamu worth visiting?
Yes, especially for snorkelling, birding and a quieter beach than Mombasa.
When can I see turtles?
Turtles are seen in the marine park through much of the year. A local conservation centre also welcomes visitors.
How many days do I need?
Three to five nights is ideal.
Read before you go
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