If you’re looking for a stunning coastal destination to relax, explore, and enjoy the beauty of nature, then Watamu Marine National Park is the right place for you. With its clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, this gem on Kenya’s coastline promises an unforgettable marine experience.
Watamu Marine National Park, established in 1968 and one of Kenya's first marine park protected area. The park spans 10 square kilometers and has since become a top beach destination for eco-tourism and marine conservationists. Watamu Marine National Park is known worldwide for its natural beauty and famous for its inherent of Manta Rays, Lionfish, diverse colorful and fascinating marine animals like; Sea Turtles, Dolphins and Whale sharks. The park is part of the larger Watamu Marine National Reserve, where efforts to protect its coral reefs and marine life are ongoing. The rich biodiversity here includes everything from sea turtles to colorful fish, and the area plays a significant role in marine research and conservation.
Watamu Marine National Park Location
Watamu Marine National Park is located in Watamu, a small, charming town along the Kenyan coast in Kilifi County. It’s 120 kilometers from Mombasa and 28 kilometers from Malindi town. It’s a great destination for both local and international travelers who want to experience Kenya’s pristine coast. If you are coming from Nairobi, Malindi marine National Park is 562 kilometers by road.
How to access Watamu Marine National Park
There are several easy ways to get to Watamu, depending on where you’re coming from:
By Road: If you are visitin Watamu Marine Park from Nairobi, it will take you 9 hours by car depending on traffic. You’ll cover a distance of 562 kilometers. You’ll pass through pristine attractions such as Tsavo national park and scenic countryside, including towns like Mombasa and Kilifi. From Mombasa, it’s a 2-hour drive to Watamu.
By Air: For a quicker journey, you can fly to Malindi Airport (MYD) from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport or JKIA. The flight takes only 45-60 minutes, and then a short transfer (28km) to Watamu.
By Train: take the SGR train from Nairobi to Mombasa (6hr Journey) and then hire a taxi or board a bus to Watamu, which will take about 2 hours’ drive.
Visiting Watamu Marine National Park
Why visit Watamu Marine National Park? Well, for starters, it’s one of Kenya’s first marine parks and it is home to one of the most beautiful and well-preserved coral reef systems in Kenya. The underwater world here is teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. But it’s not just about the water, you can also explore the surrounding forests, go birdwatching, and discover the local culture. Another fascinating factor why Watamu Marine park is a must visit destination is its close proximity to some of the best beaches and luxury resorts.
Best Season to Visit Watamu Marine National Park
The best time to visit Watamu is during the dry season, which runs from late November to March. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for participating in all beach activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. While the rains come in April to June, and shorter rains in November, Watamu still has something to offer all year-round, and it’s always a great spot for nature lovers.
Attractions at Watamu Marine National Park
When you visit Watamu Marine National Park, there’s no shortage of things to see. From unique wildlife of Watamu marine national park to weekend excursions getaway near Watamu, Here are some highlights:
1. The Coral Reefs: Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant coral reefs that are home to hundreds of marine species.
2. Turtle Watching: Watamu is an important nesting site for sea turtles and the best place for sea turtle watching. You can participate in turtle conservation efforts and even witness a nesting ceremony.
3. Mida Creek: A beautiful mangrove forest and creek where you can enjoy birdwatching and nature walks.
4. Sandy Beaches: Relax on Watamu's pristine, white sandy beaches – perfect for unwinding.
5. Watamu Village: Explore the local Swahili culture, markets, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this charming town.
6. Marine Life: The waters around the park are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, rays, and tropical fish.
7. Gede Ruins: Explore the ancient Swahili ruins of Gede, which are just a short distance from Watamu.
8. Sand Bank: A unique sandbank that appears at low tide – perfect for a peaceful walk surrounded by water.
Activities and Things to do in Watamu Marine National Park
There’s no shortage of exciting activities in and around Watamu Marine National Park. Here are just a few you can enjoy:
1. Snorkeling: With the incredible coral reefs, you’ll be amazed by the underwater world just waiting for you to explore.
2. Scuba Diving: For those who want to go deeper, Watamu offers world-class scuba diving, where you can see everything from fish to rays and turtles.
3. Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: If you’d prefer to stay dry, take a glass-bottom boat ride to view the coral reefs and marine life.
4. Turtle Watching: Be part of the conservation efforts and witness the endangered sea turtles in their natural habitat.
5. Birdwatching: With its diverse ecosystems, Watamu is a great place for birdwatchers, especially around Mida Creek and the forest areas.
6. Kite Surfing: The winds around Watamu are perfect for kite surfing, and if you’re into this sport, it’s an ideal place to catch the waves.
7. Deep-Sea Fishing: For a thrilling experience, try your luck with deep-sea fishing in the Indian Ocean.
8. Nature Walks: Enjoy a walk through the surrounding forests and mangrove areas, where you can spot different species of wildlife and birds.
9. Swimming: The warm, calm waters are perfect for a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean.
10. Cultural Tours: Discover the Swahili culture and traditions in the nearby Watamu village, where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with locals.
Accommodations at Watamu Marine National Park
Watamu offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs, from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly options. Offering from affordable family vacations to romantic getaway in Watamu. Some of the most popular beach hotels near Watamu Marine include;
Watamu Marine National Park Entry Fee
| Citizen | Resident | Non-resident | |||
| Adults | Child | Adults | Child | Adults | Child |
| ksh.130 | ksh.125 | ksh.130 | ksh.125 | $17 | $13 |
How to pay for Watamu Marine National Park Fees: Payment for Watamu Marine National Park is done through: e-Citizen, Via MPesa, Visa card, and Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT)
The park is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM
For a seamless and unforgettable experience, remember to carry; swim gears, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera.
Get a taste of nature
