Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve

Known as one of Kenya’s best-kept secrets, Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that offers a breathtaking blend of white-sand beaches, coral gardens, and turquoise lagoons. Established in 1968 as one of Africa’s first marine parks, it remains a sanctuary for some of the most diverse marine life in the Indian Ocean.

How to Get There

By Road: Watamu is located 120 km north of Mombasa and 28 km south of Malindi. From Gede, on the main Mombasa-Malindi Road, turn toward the Indian Ocean; Watamu is 11 km from this junction.
By Air: Arrive at Malindi Airport.

Park Activities

  • Diving
  • Glass Bottom Boat Rides
  • Snorkeling
  • Sunbathing
  • Water Skiing
  • Windsurfing

Attractions

  • Green turtle haven
  • Unique coral gardens
  • Mida Creek
  • Kipepeo Project
  • Gede Ruins

Accommodation

No accommodation available.

What to Bring

  • Footwear (e.g., sandals or flip-flops to protect feet from the reef)
  • T-shirts (for sunburn protection)
  • Snorkel, mask, and fins (available for hire)
  • Camera, hat, Sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Plenty of drinking water
  • A friend or group

Highlights

The “Marine Big Five”: Experience the thrill of spotting Kenya’s aquatic giants—sea turtles, whale sharks (seasonally), dolphins, humpback whales, and billfish.

Vibrant Coral Gardens: Located just 300 meters offshore, the park’s reef is home to over 600 species of fish and 150 types of hard and soft corals, making it a world-class destination for snorkeling and diving.

Turtle Sanctuary: Watamu is a vital nesting ground for endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts at local rehabilitation centers or witness the magical “Twin Migration” of whales and wildebeests.

Mida Creek & Mangroves: Beyond the reef, explore the serene Mida Creek, a tidal inlet surrounded by lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife, crabs, and juvenile marine species.