TownWatamu
Pristine beaches, coral reefs, and ocean adventures on Kenya’s coast.
Along the Kenyan coast, Watamu Beach is a little slice of paradise where stretches of white sand meet the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Known for its laid-back charm and natural beauty, it’s a favourite for both romantic honeymoons and fun-filled family beach holidays. The highlight here is the stunning Watamu Marine National Park, a protected reserve where colourful coral reefs shelter a variety of tropical fish, dolphins, and turtles. Snorkelling and glass-bottom boat trips reveal this underwater wonderland, while steady winds make the bay perfect for kite surfing. Many travellers are drawn to Watamu turtle conservation projects, where you can learn about local efforts to protect endangered sea turtles. For those wondering what to do in Watamu, options abound: explore the mangroves of Mida Creek, visit the vibrant Blue Lagoon, or take a day trip to nearby Turtle Bay in Malindi for more marine magic. Accommodations range from relaxed beachfront hotels to stylish eco-lodges, making it easy to pair Watamu with a safari for the ultimate bush-to-beach experience. Whether you’re seeking lazy days on the shore, cultural encounters, or ocean adventures, Watamu blends it all with an easygoing atmosphere that captures the best of coastal Kenya.
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Best time to go to Watamu
The best time to visit Watamu is from December to March and July to October, when the weather is warm, sunny, and dry. These months are ideal for enjoying the white sand beaches, swimming, and snorkelling in the clear waters of the Watamu Marine National Park. Kite surfers will find the most reliable winds between December and April. November and June bring short rains that refresh the landscape without significantly disrupting travel, while April and May experience the long rains, when heavy downpours can limit outdoor activities but also result in fewer visitors. For couples planning a romantic honeymoon or families seeking a relaxed coastal escape, the dry seasons remain the most reliable. Watamu also pairs beautifully with a safari, making it a favourite destination for a blend of bush and beach experiences.
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Where to stay in Watamu
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What our travellers are saying
Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified Traveller
With super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified Traveller
What can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified Traveller
Our Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified Traveller
We had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified Traveller
Our South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified Traveller
I spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified Traveller
We booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified Traveller
We had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified Traveller
I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller