Watamu Town Kenya

Watamu Town is a beach resort on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya. Watamu Kenya lies on a small headland, between the Blue Lagoon and Watamu Bay. Watamu’s main industries are tourism and fishing. The nearest big town is Malindi to which it is connected by frequent matatu.

Watamu Town Climate and Geography

Watamu’s climate is classified as tropical. The winters are rainier than the summers in Watamu. The Köppen-Geiger climate classification is As. The average annual temperature is 26.0 °C in Watamu. About 1083 mm of precipitation falls annually. Watamu lies on a small headland, between the Blue Lagoon and Watamu Bay. Watamu has a population of around 1900 and it is part of Kilifi County.

Watamu Town History

Haunted cities, forgotten mosques and magical culture Watamu’s history is long and venerable. The vast city of Gedi, now a national monument, was first settled by Arab traders around the 12th century and not abandoned until the 16th century when, as legend has it, everyone left virtually overnight, scattering their treasures as they ran.
But Gedi is not the only remainder of a forgotten civilization – on Temple Point, ringed by ancient baobabs, stands a ruined mosque. And there are more ruins on the utterly unspoilt and rarely visited island of Kirepwe, which lies on the far side of Mida Creek.

Watamu Town

Watamu Town is a small town 20 kilometres or so south of Malindi. The name translates into ‘sweet people’. It lies between Watamu Bay to the north and Blue Lagoon to the south. The stunning Turtle Bay extends south from Blue Lagoon where it meets Mida Creek.
Watamu town itself has grown from a small coastal village into a small ramshackle settlement of huts and buildings. The town has an accelarating growth rate due to the popularity of the area as a great holdiday destination with a growing economy and population.

Watamu Village Life

In the village, there’s a cheery line-up of stalls displaying brilliantly colored fashions, local carvings and vibrant art. Elsewhere there are Italian coffee shops, gelato bars, wine shops, delicatessens and bakeries.
Fishermen sell fish fresh from the sea. The restaurants range from gourmet to simple roadside snack bar. The clientele is cosmopolitan fusion. There are Italian and British residents; there are multi-cultural tourists; and there’s the welcoming mélange of the locals. And the happy-go-lucky air of the place is epitomized by the fact that most people get around either by walking along the beach or taking a gailypainted tuk tuk (motorcycle taxi).

Watamu Town Activities

Watamu’s main industries are tourism and fishing. it has banks, petrol stations, post office, lodges, nightclubs playing latest western and local music, restaurant serving local and exotic dishes, supermarkets, dry cleaners and lively markets places.

The name “Watamu” means “sweet people” in Swahili. The name came from the fact that Arab slave traders used to distribute sweets to entice the local population before taking them as slaves.

People of Watamu Kenya

Watamu is home to the Bajuni people; who trace their descend to the intermarriages between the local Giriama People and the Arab traders. As of now, various tribes from inland Kenya such as the Luo, Kisii, Kikuyu, Kamba, Kalenjin, and Luhyas have all immigrated to the area to work in the Hotel industry. this movement has led to an increase in the population of the Watamu as earlier stated.

Getting to Watamu Kenya

Fly from Nairobi to the coastal city of Mombasa. From Mombasa International Airport you can drive around 90 minutes to Watamu, which is a scenic journey along the coast passing through sisal plantations and crossing beautiful Kilifi creek.

A taxi from there will cost around 6,000 – 8,000 Kenya Shillings. You can also take 45-minute flight from Nairaobi to Malindi airport on coast. Watamu is just 30 minutes from the airport and a taxi from Malindi to Watamu will cost between 2,000 – 3,000 Kenya Shillings .

The Wonders of Watamu Kenya

Escapist, enchanting, and with an indefinable air of having time-warped itself back to gentler days, Watamu beguiles. Standing atop a miniature peninsular, sheltered by the nurturing curve of Mida Creek, it abounds in rocky coves backed only by baobab trees; and shimmering lagoons fronted by three great sweeps of silver sand.

Protected by Kenya’s barrier reef, the water is sapphire-clear and bathwater-warm all year round. Backed by the cool green vaults of the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest and the dreaming ruins of Gedi, Kenya’s most enigmatic 13th century Swahili city, Watamu has it all. There’s action if you want it and the Robinson-Crusoe-life if you don’t.

Watamu Beach

The beaches of Watamu are a favourite nesting site for green, hawksbill, olive ridley and leatherback turtles, and there’s a vibrant Turtle Watch initiative in place – not only to shepherd the baby turtles down to the beach, but also to rescue large turtles caught in the fishermen’s nets. Best time for turtle hatching is: March-October.

Dolphins in Watamu Kenya

Watamu is renowned for its dolphins (Indo-Pacific bottlenose, Indo-Pacific humpback and spinner). Returning year after year to the sanctuary of Watamu, mothers arrive with their calves and males arrive to mate. What’s more, the regulars have been carefully catalogued according to their very personalized fin markings, giving dolphin spotting tours an added dimension. You can also enjoy the rare treat of standup paddle boarding with dolphins.

Whales  in Watamu Kenya

Given that they’re the size of a double-decker bus, a whale-sighting is a perspective-changing experience. And in Watamu, such sightings are commonplace, not least because the whalespotting teams liaise to circulate information as to where the whales are at any given time.
Migratory pods of humpback whales pass by from Southern Africa typically July-September, while the prime whale shark season is usually September-December, but whales are often seen at other times of the year too. Nor do you have to go out on a boat to see these gentle giants – they often ‘breach’ right off the headland – so you can see them from your bar stool.

Dive Experience in Watamu Kenya

It’s a tribute to the brilliance of the Watamu dive experience that people come back year after year to experience it. One visitor admitted to having done 750 dives off Watamu with Turtle Bay Dive Centre. When asked what made him such an unshakeable devotee of Watamu diving, he said it was a mix of friendly dive guides, year-round clear, warm water, and a great selection of 20 world-class dive profiles ranging from cliffs, drop-offs, night dives and wreck dives.

Also good to know is that, whether you’re a learner or a pro, Watamu abounds with exceptionally professional dive-schools. So… dive in.

Watamu Water World

An inspirational water world, Watamu National Marine Park and Reserve showcases the entire water-sports spectrum to perfection: kitesurfing, paddle-boarding, boogie-boarding, snorkelling, sailing – the lot. It also boasts a glorious coral reef with 150 species of coral, 1000 species of reef fish, sea turtle feeding and breeding sites and the additional lure of sightings of manta rays, grouper and barracuda in the deeper waters.

The Midas Touch Watamu Kenya

According to Greek mythology, everything that ancient King Midas touched turned to gold. On the calm stretch of tidal water known as Mida Creek it’s the water that turns liquid gold as one of Kenya’s most stunning sunsets illuminates this secret domain of mangrove swamps and palm trees. For optimum immersion in the gold-painted early evening, take a spin on the creek in a traditional dugout canoe.

Pole-propelled, it can nose its way into the mysterious forest of mangrove roots where ghost crabs flash briefly in the shallows, white egrets roost and grey herons stand as motionless as statues. You’ll meet local fishermen – wading in the creek and crab-hunting with bows and arrows. You may even encounter the Mida rush-hour – a flurry of two or three little white boats packed with laughing local ladies and the odd surfboard with a stool strapped to it – the paddler, more often than not, with his cell phone crammed to his ear.

And as gold gives way to indigo, you can head into the community-run Crab Shack for cold beers and golden-fried crab samosas. The crabs are farmed in the mangrove swamps so they don’t come any fresher; and by sampling the Mida experience you’re supporting the local community. It’s gold-chip eco-tourism.

Bio-Ken Snake Farm Watamu Kenya

Fancy holding a four-foot cobra, and milking it for its venom? Then head for Bio-Ken Snake Farm, just five minutes from the centre of Watamu village. Housing the largest collection of snakes in East Africa, the farm is also a vital source of snake-bite serum. It also makes a great family outing boasting both scare-value and education alike.

EcoWorld – Watamu Kenya

On the sandy track that leads from Watamu to Mida Creek is a miracle. It’s called EcoWorld. And it’s deliciously, inspirationally whacky. On one side of the road is an enormous pile of plastic refuse, on the other a stockade made of plastic flip-flop sandals. Venture inside and you enter the utterly surreal world of Watamu’s revolutionary recycling industry.

Fuelled by the refuse washed up on the beaches and by the vast amount of plastic and glass bottles generated by the local hotels, the EcoWorld team created everything from construction blocks (plastic bottles filled with sand), bottle-bottom bricks, art made from washed-up toothbrushes – to toys made from recycled flip-flops, charcoal made from crushed coconut shells and cooking gas made from rotting vegetables.

But the miracle doesn’t stop there – the EcoWorld ‘blue team’ keep the beaches clean, the local hotels cook on the methane gas generated by their own kitchen waste, and the compost left over from the biogas generators grows luxuriant bunches of basil which fuel the local pizzas.

An award-winning, benchmarksetting, and superbly-symbiotic relationship between the local community and tourism industry, the EcoWorld model is so successful that it’s being mirrored all over Kenya and the world. Visitors are welcome and the gift shop (itself constructed entirely from bottles) is a treasure trove of ecologically-sound gifts.

Things to do and Places to Visit in Watamu Town

Watamu Marine National Park

Tourists Attractions in Watamu Kenya

The best reason for getting out of the boat, your clothes and yourself are the coral reefs and abundant fish, which characterise the marine life of Watamu. Hire a glass-bottomed boat (at least for the sake of the person on board – who wants to simply peer at the wonder of the ocean, without moving a muscle). But abandoning the safe ship of paradise, generates the most reward.

Watch the sunset from the dhow or catch a glimpse of East African birds. Photo: Mail Today
Snorkelling in these waters, I’m just kissing distance away from a litany of brain, fan and sponge coral, which provide the required nutrition and shelter for a plethora of fish life. In the distance, pods of dolphin frolic. Close at hand, a stingray glances at me, as I admire the variety of fish – parrotfish and starfish, angelfish and moray eels – dancing around me in playful abandon.

Gede Ruins And Museum

Tourists Attractions in Watamu Kenya

Mysterious and beguiling are adjectives frequently bandied about, when describing this ancient site of medieval Swahili-Arab settlement. Not least because, many of the stories of this vast complex of crumbling coral-brick houses, palaces and mosques – are still unknown.
The guide points out the differences in living conditions between the elite and the lower echelons – in terms of the material used in building construction (stone versus mud), for starters.

Gede was clearly an advanced city – evidenced in the layout of the streets, and the facilities of running water and drainage. Archeological finds of Chinese vases and Venetian glass and even an Indian lamp, throw light on its robust trade relations. The surrounding National Park houses a museum – which has a permanent display of Swahili Culture.

While the artifacts on display inside are illuminating, it’s the call of the hornbill and the desire to spot the golden rump elephant shrew that makes me want to linger.

Gede Snake Park

Tourists Attractions in Watamu Kenya

There is distinct pleasure in sharing an experience of wildlife, with people who know a great deal more about it than you do. And Mr Shadrack who manages the Snake Park within the precinct of the Gede ruins clearly inhabits that spirit. Shadrack says he doesn’t use gloves while handling the snakes, because he wants to be as gentle with them as possible.

Under his watchful gaze he let’s me handle one of the non-poisonous. In this controlled environment, it’s easy to want more time with these sinuous creatures, understand how their milk is used to make anti-venom for local communities, and the importance of preservation of snake-habitats.

Kipepeo Butterfly Project

Tourists Attractions in Watamu Kenya

In Watamu, where it’s common to find an institution dedicated to the care of turtles, or a man passionate about snakes, it comes as no surprise that just a few paces from the snake farm, is the Kipepeo Butterfly Project. Here as elsewhere, are signs on the wall – signaling the need to establish a link between conservation and livelihood.

With the zeal of an evangelist, the guide talks us through a series of carefully curated exhibits (with butterflies fluttering overhead) on how forests can provide local communities with unexpected sources of income. This local community for instance produces nature-based products of silk cloth and honey. The Orange Dog Butterflies locked in passionate embrace in the garden, seem to be acknowledging this sentiment.

Dhow Cruise On Mida Creek

Tourists Attractions in Watamu Kenya

Mida Creek has earned its stripes as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This 32-sq km tidal estuary, lined with mangroves and beaches, is as pretty as an ornamental placemat. A good way to experience the mangroves – is to travel down Mida Creek on a traditional Arab Dhow.
Medina Palms, a good stay option while you’re in Watamu, not just for its plush accommodation that includes sea-facing villas, but also for the activities it helps organize – everything from golf to turtle-sanctuary visits – organizes a Sunset dhow cruise.

The cocktails are so abundant that chances are you’ll end up skipping dinner. If you’re not peering through the binoculars on board, marveling at the not-sohard-to-see brigade of colourful East African birds or admiring the sky fade into sunset colours, you’re simply reclining on deck, cocktail in hand, letting the serene beauty seep in.

Watamu Beach

The shoreline in the area features white sand beaches and offshore coral formations arranged in different bays and beach: Garoda Beach, Turtle Bay, Blue Lagoon Bay, Watamu Bay, Ocean breaze, and Kanani reaf and Jacaranda beach.
They are protected as part of the Watamu Marine National Park. The Marine Park is considered one of the best snorkelling and diving areas on the coast of East Africa. It is also rated the third best beaches in Africa, for it crystal clear water and silver sand beaches.
In order to assist the managing authorities namely Kenyan Wildlife Service, in protecting the Park, local community groups, the tourist sector and environmental groups have formed a unique organisation,Watamu Marine Association Members of this group are Turtle Bay,Hemingways,Ocean Sports , Arocha Kenya,Lonno Lodge Mida Community Conservation group, Watamu Boat Operator, Safari Sellers and women’s group

Hotels in Watamu Kenya

And when it comes to accommodation, Watamu Kenya has it all: 5 star resorts, family resorts, eco resorts, apartments, simple guest houses and safe and secure camping. Here are some of the hotels in Watamu Kenya

Places to stay in Watamu 

Temple Point Resort

Category: Hotels in Watamu Kenya

Temple point resort is situated in the middle of the Watamu Marine National Park. They offer the most comprehensive collection of sports and leisure activities in all of Kenya. They have a restaurant that offers international cuisine.
For further information please visit: Temple point resort

Watamu Adventist Beach Resort and Campsite

Category: Hotels in Watamu Kenya

Managed by the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Watamu Adventist Beach Resort and Campsite offers conferences, seminars and retreats. The resort is located on Watamu Beach and many of its rooms have sea views. The resort is an alcohol and smoking tree zone
For further information please visit: Watamu Adventist Beach Resort and Campsite

Sun Palm Hotel

Category: Hotels in Watamu Kenya

Sun Palm Hotel is a small resort with a selection of facilities and activities on the main road in Watamu.Activities include horse riding and water sports. There is also a beach volleyball court and a pool table. Kamele Tours and Safaris has an office at reception, and can book tours, excursions and safaris to destinations in Kenya‘ Local sites of interest include Arabuko Sokoke Forest, Gede Ruins Mida Creek, Kipepeo Butterfly Project and the Snake Farm.
For further information please visit: Sun Palm Hotel

Watamu Villas

Category: Hotels in Watamu Kenya

Watamu Villas  is a collection of self-catering villas available for rent on a long or short~term basis. The villas are whitewashed, with red tiled roofs. Flower-lined paths weave between the villas.In the centre of the garden is a swimming pool, surrounded by sunbathing terrace.  Local sites of interest include Watamu Beach, the Gede Ruins, Kipepeo Butterfly Project and the Snake Farm.
For further information please visit: villas Watamu

Savannah Restaurant and Bar

Category: Hotels in Watamu Kenya

Savannah is a lush garden with an attractive restaurant and bar, and self-catering bandas.The open sided restaurant is surrounded by flowers, succulents and driftwood art. Murals of trees stand out from whitewashed walls. The terrace is furnished with tables and chairs and shaded by umbrellas.
For further information please visit: Savannah Restaurant and Bar

Turtle Bay Watamu

Located in Watamu in the region of Coast, 13 miles from Malindi, Turtle Bay Beach Club features a playground and sun terrace.Turtle Bay was chosen as a Best All Inclusive Hotel in Africa by TripAdvisor® in its 2012 Travelers’ Choice® awards. Now in its tenth year, the annual TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards honor the world’s best hotels, earning their distinction from those who know them best – real travelers.

Watamu Cottages

Relaxing romantic well equipped beach cottages situated right on the beautiful beach of Watamu.

• We offer three well appointed, air-conditioned, self catering holiday cottages situated and a luxury Banda on a lovely beachfront property.
• Each cottage has two bedrooms, both with bathrooms ensuite; a fully equipped kitchen and a lovely patio to lounge away lazy afternoons.
• We will organise a personal cook to prepare all your meals – a real holiday treat!
• The three cottages all face onto a sparkling blue pool – perfect to cool off after a hot day down on the beach.
  
• This is an ideal destination for beach lovers looking for a family vacation or a romantic getaway.
  
• There are various activities to keep you occupied – Fishing, Kite surfing and Dhow cruises; a good choice of bars and restaurants to explore. All in close proximity to our property.

Ocean Sports Watamu

The Ocean Sports Resort is a laid-back, easy-going accommodation for your non-frill beach vacation in Kenya, and if you are planning a family holiday on Watamu Beach with AfricanMecca, the location of this hotel or the nearby Turtle Bay Beach Club is an ideal spot to build a lifetime of bonded memories without having a mass of tourists on the beach when compared to the seashores of Mombasa.

Couples visiting on their modest honeymoon or cushy solo travelers will love the natural beauty of the powder white sands, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and resplendent tropical greenery. This seaside hotel offers you good value for money with basic amenities and friendly, attentive service. The hotel is a sprawling property laid over an area of six hectares of carefully landscaped gardens with blooming flowers that turn it into a riot of color all year around.

Other Hotels in Watamu Kenya

• Kobe Suit Resort
• Mawimbi Lodge Hotel
• Mawe Resort Watamu Boutique Hotel
• Medina Palm
• Seven Islands Resort
• Jumbo Watamu
• Watamu Tropical Resort
• Ocean Sports Resort
• Temple Point Resort
• Jacaranda Beach
• Barracuda Inn Resort
• Gecko Resort

Night Clubs and Nightlife in Watamu Town

• Turtle Bay Beach Club
• Villas Watamu Resort
• African Sun Resort
• Come Back Club Watamu
• The Charming Lonno Lodge
• Sun Palm Beach Resort
• Watamu Palm Beach
• Aquarius Club International Resort

Watamu is in which County?

Watamu is a town in Kilifi County. It’s approximately 105 km north of Mombasa and 14–17 km south of Malindi.

Where is Watamu located?

Watamu Beach is located in Watamu, a small town on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya.

Is Watamu safe?

Watamu Beach is completely safe for visitors. Most travel advice for Kenya will indicate that you stay away from the Somalian border and nearby coast, but Watamu is a notable distance away from this area