What to Do in Watamu, Kenya: Your Ultimate Vacation Guide

Tucked along Kenya’s stunning coastline, Watamu is a charming tropical paradise that offers an unforgettable escape. Known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, this laid-back beach town is the perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a beach lover, history buff, or wildlife enthusiast, Watamu has something for everyone.

Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Watamu to make the most of your vacation.
1. Explore the Watamu Marine National Park
One of Watamu’s biggest attractions is its Marine National Park, renowned for its diverse marine life and crystal-clear waters. This protected area is perfect for:
- Snorkeling: Swim alongside colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and even sea turtles. The warm, shallow waters make it an ideal snorkeling spot for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
- Scuba Diving: Watamu is home to some of the best dive sites in East Africa. Dive into the deeper waters to explore shipwrecks, vibrant corals, and spot marine life like dolphins, moray eels, and even whale sharks.
- Glass-bottom boat tours: If you prefer to stay dry but still want to experience the magic of the underwater world, hop on a glass-bottom boat and marvel at the vibrant sea life from above.
2. Relax on Watamu Beach
Of course, no trip to Watamu is complete without spending some time on its stunning beaches. With soft, white sand and calm turquoise waters, Watamu Beach is the perfect spot to kick back and soak in the tropical beauty.
- Watamu Beach: The main stretch of sand is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and taking long walks at sunrise or sunset.
- Turtle Bay Beach: Located near Watamu Marine Park, Turtle Bay is a great spot for water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Private beach picnics: For a more secluded experience, consider booking a private beach picnic to enjoy a romantic meal by the water’s edge.
3. Visit the Ruins of Gedi
History enthusiasts will love exploring the Ruins of Gedi, an ancient Swahili town that dates back to the 13th century. This abandoned city, now surrounded by lush forest, offers a glimpse into Kenya’s rich past.
Wander through the ruins of mosques, palaces, and houses, and imagine life in this once-thriving town. The Gedi Museum on site provides further insights into the history of the Swahili people and their trade connections with the Middle East and India.

- Tip: The ruins are located about 10 minutes from Watamu town, making it an easy day trip. You can also hire a local guide for a more in-depth experience.
4. Take a Trip to Mida Creek
Mida Creek, a tidal inlet just outside Watamu, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Surrounded by mangroves, this unique ecosystem is a haven for birdwatching, kayaking, and sunset cruises.- Birdwatching: Mida Creek is home to a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos, kingfishers, and African fish eagles. Bring binoculars for a chance to spot these beautiful birds in their natural habitat.
- Kayaking & Canoeing: Glide through the tranquil waters of the creek, explore hidden channels, and enjoy the serene environment. Kayaks are available for rent, and guided tours are also an option.
- Sunset dhow cruises: For a relaxing evening, take a traditional dhow cruise along the creek as the sun sets over the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange.
5. Explore Arabuko Sokoke Forest
Just a short drive from Watamu, the Arabuko Sokoke Forest is the largest coastal forest in East Africa and is home to rare bird species, butterflies, and small mammals like the elephant shrew.
- Birdwatching: Arabuko Sokoke is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 230 bird species, including the endangered Sokoke Scops Owl and Clarke’s Weaver.
- Nature walks: Embark on a guided nature walk through the forest, where you’ll learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this ecosystem. The forest is also home to forest elephants, so keep your eyes peeled!
- Cycling tours: For those seeking adventure, cycling tours are available, offering a fun way to explore the forest’s winding trails.
6. Go Deep Sea Fishing
Watamu is world-famous for its deep-sea fishing opportunities, particularly for those looking to catch big game fish. The warm Indian Ocean waters attract species like marlin, sailfish, and tuna, making Watamu a hotspot for anglers from around the world.
- Deep-sea fishing charters: Book a half-day or full-day fishing trip with experienced guides who will take you to the best fishing spots. Even if you’re not an avid angler, the excitement of catching (and releasing) a marlin or sailfish is an unforgettable experience.
- Conservation-focused: Watamu has a strong focus on sustainable fishing practices, with many operators encouraging catch-and-release fishing to preserve the ocean's delicate ecosystem.
7. Visit the Watamu Turtle Watch
For those passionate about conservation, the Watamu Turtle Watch is an inspiring project dedicated to the protection of endangered sea turtles. Visitors can learn about the efforts being made to conserve turtles and their nesting sites along the Kenyan coast.
- Turtle nesting season: If you visit Watamu between October and April, you may have the chance to witness a turtle nesting or a baby turtle hatchling release into the ocean—an experience you’ll never forget.
- Volunteering opportunities: For a more hands-on experience, consider volunteering with Watamu Turtle Watch to help with beach patrols, data collection, and turtle rescues.
8. Discover Bio-Ken Snake Farm
Curious about Kenya’s reptiles? The Bio-Ken Snake Farm in Watamu offers an educational experience where visitors can learn about East Africa’s snakes and other reptiles. The farm is home to over 200 snakes, including cobras, pythons, and vipers.
- Guided tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the different snake species, their behavior, and their role in the ecosystem. The farm also focuses on snake conservation and research.
- Snakebite treatment: The farm is a leading research center for anti-venom production and offers training on first aid for snake bites.9. Take a Day Trip to Malindi
If you have extra time during your stay, take a day trip to Malindi, located just 30 minutes north of Watamu. Malindi is a historic town with a mix of Swahili, Portuguese, and Italian influences.
- Malindi Marine Park: Similar to Watamu, Malindi has excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities in its marine park.
- Portuguese Chapel and Vasco da Gama Pillar: These historical landmarks offer a glimpse into Malindi’s colonial past and its significance as a port during the age of exploration.
- Shopping and dining: Explore Malindi’s vibrant markets and enjoy a delicious meal at one of its many restaurants, where you can savor Swahili cuisine with an Italian twist.
Final Thoughts: Why Watamu Should Be on Your Travel List
With its mix of beautiful beaches, wildlife encounters, and rich history, Watamu offers a little bit of everything for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, thrilling marine adventures, or an immersive cultural experience, this tropical haven on the Kenyan coast won’t disappoint.
Ready to plan your next vacation? Watamu awaits with its untouched beauty, friendly locals, and endless opportunities for adventures