A Guide to Watamu, Kenya - A Stunning Coastal Escape
Located about 105 km north of Mombasa and 15 km south of Malindi, Watamu is a small coastal town on the Indian Ocean that has a name that translates to “Home of the sweet people” in Swahili, and it truly lives up to that reputation.
During our week on the Kenyan coast, we stayed primarily in Malindi but spend a full day in Watamu and loved it! Kayaking through the mangroves in Mida Creek was highlight and we had an incredible Kenyan meal at Wasafi Swahili Dishes.
It’s a place to relax, stay in a nice hotel and enjoy the laid-back seaside vibe.
Below is an in-depth guide to help you plan your visit to this slice of Kenyan paradise.
Contents
Garoda Beach
About Watamu
Watamu is a small coastal town in Kenya, nestled between pristine beaches and lush mangrove forests along the Indian Ocean. Its name derives from a Swahili word meaning “sweet people,” reflecting the area’s warm hospitality. Historically, Watamu was shaped by centuries of maritime trade along the East African coast—Arab, Persian, and Portuguese traders all frequented the region, leaving behind cultural influences that can still be felt today.
Over time, conservation efforts and establishing the Watamu Marine National Park have drawn attention to its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, helping Watamu evolve from a historical trading locale into a popular and environmentally significant tourist destination.
How to get to Watamu
The nearest airports to Watamu are Malindi (30 minutes away) and Mombassa (2-3 hours away).
From there, you will need to get to Watamu by car. If you’re staying here, your accommodation should be able to arrange a transfer for you. We were staying in Malindi, and hired a driver (Mike) to look after us for three full days who dropped us off in the morning and picked us up in the evening. Most taxi drivers will be willing to be your driver for a reasonable price.
Once you get to Watamu, you can get around town via tuk-tuks and motorbikes, there are plenty around.
On the back of a ‘motorbike taxi’
Tuk tuk
Things to do in Watamu
Watamu Marine National Park
Watamu Marine National Park is the name given to the entire coastal area around Watamu and it managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The National Park is made up of:
Garoda Beach
Turtle Bay
Blue Lagoon Bay
Watamu Bay
Ocean Breeze
Kanani Reef
Jacaranda Beach
Mida Creek
This protected area is renowned as one of East Africa’s best spots for snorkeling and diving, teeming with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasional dolphin sightings.
Pristine, Seaweed-Free Beaches
One of the biggest draws of Watamu is its beaches, with Garoda Beach standing out for its year-round freedom from seaweed. You’ll find sunbeds available for a small fee (often negotiable), and unlike some tourist hotspots, there’s minimal hassling from local vendors.
You can order fresh seafood from your loungers and explore the craft stalls at the entrance.
There is plenty of space on the beach if you want to just relax on the sand as well.
Garoda Beach is especially popular for kite surfing at high tide. If you’re new to the sport, local instructors are available to help you catch your first wave.
Sunset Kayaking in Mida Creek - Our Highlight
If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Watamu, kayaking through the mangroves at Mida Creek should be at the top of your list. We absolutely loved our adventure because it was a perfect mix of fun, challenge, and a refreshing workout. Navigating through narrow passages under the lush, dense canopy of mangrove trees made the journey thrilling and immersive.
Midway through, we parked our kayaks and continued on foot to discover a hidden, secret beach. Our guide, King, shared fascinating stories about life in the nearby villages where he grew up, giving us a deeper appreciation of the area's culture and traditions.
The return trip was equally special. As the sun began to set, we gently paddled back, pausing to float on the calm waters, sipping tea and enjoying snacks while watching the sun dip dramatically below the horizon. The entire experience was magical, serene, and invigorating all at once.
Kayaking at Mida Creek is an incredible adventure we'd highly recommend to anyone visiting Watamu!
We booked our experience via Watamu Treehouse.
You can also cruise along Mida Creek in a Dhow boat or a fancier modern boat as well
Snorkeling & Diving
The Watamu Marine National Park is a snorkeler’s heaven and a diver’s playground. We didn’t go divingon this trip but we have heard that the marine life is incredible.
Remember that before you snorkel or dive in this protected area, it’s essential to get a permit from the Kenya Wildlife Service. Even if you plan on walking into the water from the shore in your snorkelling gear, you’ll need this permit beforehand. Once you’re all set, you’ll find several reputable PADI-certified dive schools in Watamu.
Aqua Ventures – A well-respected centre that provides PADI courses, guided dives, and snorkelling outings. They also arrange dolphin and whale watching trips, allowing you to explore more of Watamu’s marine life.
Scuba Diving in Kenya – Operating out of the Turtle Bay Beach Club, this centre offers PADI-approved training and daily dives in the surrounding waters, including excursions to Watamu Marine National Park.
Bluefin Diving – A PADI-certified establishment featuring a broad range of courses suited for novices up to advanced divers. They lead excursions within the Marine Park and beyond.
Ocean Sports Diving – Based at Ocean Sports Resort, they offer PADI courses, dive safaris, and tailored trips around the Marine Park, where you’re likely to encounter dolphins, turtles, and vibrant coral ecosystems.
Peponi Divers – Known for delivering a safe, personalized experience, Peponi Divers covers everything from entry-level sessions to guided dives. They emphasize eco-friendly practices and marine conservation.
Tribe Watersports – Although they focus mainly on kitesurfing and other water sports, Tribe Watersports also arranges diving expeditions and teams up with local dive schools to offer certification programs.
Gede Ruins
The Gede Ruins, situated just inland from Watamu, offer a captivating glimpse into a once-thriving Swahili settlement believed to date back to the 12th century. The ruins are small so you won’t spend to much time here
Although it was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th century, leaving behind few records about why, Gede’s remnants provide valuable insights into Swahili history, architecture, and trade. Surrounded by indigenous forest, the ruins are now a protected national monument, complete with a small museum and interpretive signage
Entrance fee: 500 Shillings
Where to eat and drink in Watamu
Non Solo Gelato
For amazing gelato and coffee.
Wasafi Swahili Dishes
Highly recommended by our taxi driver, and it did not disappoint. There are many great Swahili restaurants along the coast, and this hit the spot completely. Make sure you have the Ugali, some Chappati and Fish Nazi; you will not be disappointed.
Make sure you have dinner here!
Other restaurants to try in Watamu:
Papa Remo if you’re craving Italian—fresh pizzas, pasta, and gelato (Watamu has a strong Italian influence just like Malindi to its north)
Crab Shack Dabaso in Mida Creek for seafood and panoramic views, we planned to eat here but decided against it as the reviews mentioned it was very touristy.
Lichthaus by Temples Point—You must book in advance, as the canopies fill up; the views and vibe seem incredible, and you can come here for a drink in the evening, too.
Hemingways Watamu for more upscale dining.
Where to stay in Watamu
Watamu has a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts like Hemingways Watamu. Book ahead if you’re travelling during peak season (December to January and around Easter).
Best time to visit Watamu
Watamu is warm year-round, but rainy seasons (March-May and October–November) can affect visibility for snorkelling and diving. If you’re all about underwater adventures, consider visiting in drier months for better clarity.
Conclusion
Watamu truly embodies the spirit of a serene seaside retreat.
It’s a place where the pace of life slows, the beaches remain unspoiled, and a breathtaking sunset kayak on Mida Creek can cap off your day in the most magical way.
Whether you’re lounging on sunbeds at Garoda Beach, exploring ancient Gede Ruins, or venturing below the waves with a snorkel mask, Watamu’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it a standout destination on Kenya’s coastline. Prepare to be captivated by the endless shades of blue, the soft sands beneath your feet, and the genuinely sweet people who call Watamu home.
