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Watamu

pearl of Kenya, it enchants with white beaches, coral reef and turquoise sea.

Watamu: beaches, coral reef and seaside hotels

Watamu is one of Kenya’s most beloved destinations: fine white sand, turquoise waters and protected reefs make it ideal for holidays among hotels, resorts and aparthotels just steps from the ocean. In the heart of the Watamu Marine National Park, one of the country’s first, snorkeling and boat trips reveal coral gardens and tropical fish. Between June–November and December–May, the waters stay warm and crystal clear—perfect for families and couples. The coves of Turtle Bay and Blue Lagoon alternate with long beaches, while Mida Creek enchants visitors with mangrove channels and pink sunsets, ideal for kayaking or boardwalk strolls among herons and kingfishers. Nature lovers can visit the Local Ocean Conservation Center, which protects sea turtles through guided tours and releases. Thanks to its strategic location, Watamu combines sea and safari (Tsavo East, Arabuko Sokoke) and offers a wide range of all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels and aparthotels with kitchenettes—an ideal mix of comfort, freedom and affordability.

Recommended hotels to Watamu

Barracuda Inn Resort

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Barracuda Inn Resort in Watamu, Kenya: beachfront boutique resort near the Marine Park. Comfortable rooms, snorkeling, pool, ideal for couples, families and diving enthusiasts.

From € 78 / person per night

Turtle Bay Beach Club

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Turtle Bay Beach Club in Watamu: beachfront resort perfect for snorkeling, relaxation and tours in the marine reserve. Comfortable rooms, local cuisine and activities on Kenya’s beautiful coast.

From € 98 / person per night

Simba House Watamu

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Simba House Watamu — cozy guesthouse in Watamu, Kenya. Comfortable rooms near Watamu Beach, Mida Creek and Arabuko Sokoke reserve. Ideal for snorkeling, beach stays and relaxation.

From € 37 / person per night

Lily Palm Resort

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Lily Palm Resort in Watamu: seaside retreat on Kenya’s coast near Watamu Marine Park, white-sand beaches, snorkeling, pool and beachfront comfort for unforgettable stays.

From € 57 / person per night

GK Palm Resort Watamu

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GK Palm Resort Watamu: beachfront resort in Watamu, Kenya. Tropical beaches, snorkeling at Watamu Marine Park, comfortable rooms, ideal for families and couples.

From € 41 / person per night

Kobe Suite Resort

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Kobe Suite Resort in Watamu – elegant suites near white-sand beaches and Watamu Marine Park. Pool, snorkeling, ideal for romantic getaways and family stays.

From € 141 / person per night

Rafiki Village

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Rafiki Village in Watamu: boutique retreat steps from white-sand beaches and Watamu Marine Park. Ideal for snorkeling, coastal safari and relaxing stays near Gede Ruins.

From € 49 / person per night

Rafiki Tamu Residential Resort

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Rafiki Tamu Residential Resort in Watamu: stylish beachfront resort near Watamu Marine Park, white-sand beaches and coral reefs. Perfect for relaxation, snorkeling and family getaways.

From € 67 / person per night

Paka House-Rafiki Village

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Paka House - Rafiki Village in Watamu: cozy holiday villa near Watamu beaches and the Marine Park, B&B-style rooms, perfect for snorkeling, beach relaxation and coastal safaris.

Tembo House - Rafiki Village

Kenya Watamu

Tembo House - Rafiki Village in Watamu: eco guesthouse near Watamu Marine Park, beaches and Gede Ruins. Ideal for snorkeling, relaxation and forest safaris.

Sun Palm Beach Resort

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Sun Palm Beach Resort in Watamu, Kenya: beachfront resort near Watamu Beach, Malindi Marine Park and Arabuko-Sokoke Forest. Ideal for snorkeling, safari and beach relaxation.

From € 75 / person per night

Kasa Tatu Cottages Watamu

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Kasa Tatu Cottages Watamu: cozy cottages in Watamu, steps from white beaches, snorkeling in the Marine Park and easy access to Gede Ruins and Malindi on the Kenyan coast.

From € 59 / person per night

Practical tips about Watamu

When choosing where to stay in Watamu, consider proximity to the beach and access to the protected lagoon. Seaside resorts offer full services, entertainment and all-inclusive packages, while aparthotels suit travelers who prefer flexible schedules and private kitchens. Must-do activities include a Blue Safari in the Marine Park, walks on the Mida Creek boardwalk, birdwatching and sunset cruises among mangroves (home to 8 of Africa’s 9 mangrove species), visits to sea turtle conservation projects, and day trips to Malindi.

Plan transfers from Mombasa or Malindi in advance and book excursions with Travellero and certified Kenya Wildlife Service operators. For a complete experience, add a 1–2 day safari to enhance your package’s appeal and adventure.

Frequent questions

The best time to visit Watamu is from December to March and from July to October, when the climate is dry, the sea is calm and visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving. These months mark the peak beach season, with ideal temperatures for swimming and sunbathing.

Humpback whales migrate along the Kenyan coast between July and September. During this period, travelers can join whale watching tours in the Watamu Marine Park, an unforgettable and eco-friendly experience for nature lovers and photographers.

The sea in Watamu stays warm all year round, ranging between 25°C and 29°C. During the southern summer (December - March), the water is especially clear, perfect for exploring coral reefs and colorful marine life.

If you prefer comfort and full services, choose a beachfront resort or all-inclusive hotel. For more independence, aparthotels offer private kitchens and flexible stays. Boutique hotels are ideal for couples looking for romantic escapes and personalized service.

Don’t miss a Blue Safari in the Marine Park, a sunset walk on the Mida Creek boardwalk, visits to the Local Ocean Turtle Conservation Center, or a day trip to Malindi. You can also combine your stay with a safari to Tsavo East National Park for a full African experience.

Yes, Watamu is a great starting point for 1- or 2-day safaris to Tsavo East or Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Many operators offer organized tours with transportation, local guides and accommodation, making it easy to enjoy both beach and wildlife adventures.
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