Discover the Underwater Paradise of Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
Explore the vibrant marine life and pristine beaches of Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve, a stunning coastal paradise in Kenya.
Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve is a stunning coastal haven in Kenya, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and breathtaking beaches. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
- Watamu, North, KE
- +254729548373
- Visit website
Local tips
- Best visited during the dry season from June to October for optimal snorkeling and diving conditions.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore at your own pace, although rentals are available.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the marine ecosystem and its conservation.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks if you plan to explore the park for an extended period.
- Respect the marine life by not touching the coral and maintaining a safe distance from all creatures.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from central Watamu, head northeast on Marine Park Road. Continue for about 2 km, and you will see signs for Watamu Marine National Park. The entrance is located at the end of the road, where you will need to pay an entrance fee. The current fee is approximately 1000 KES for adults and 500 KES for children. Make sure to carry cash as card payments may not be accepted.
-
Public Transportation (Matatu)
You can take a matatu (shared taxi) from the Watamu town center to the Marine Park area. Look for matatus heading towards Malindi and ask the driver to drop you off near the entrance of Watamu Marine National Park. The fare is usually around 50-100 KES depending on your negotiation skills and the distance. Once you get off, follow the signs to the park entrance, which is about a 10-minute walk.
-
Bicycle Rental
For an eco-friendly option, consider renting a bicycle from one of the local shops in Watamu. Head northeast on Marine Park Road for about 2 km. The ride is quite scenic and enjoyable. You will arrive at the entrance of Watamu Marine National Park, where you will need to pay the entrance fee. Remember to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.
-
Walking
If you are staying close to the park, you can walk there from your accommodation. Head northeast on Marine Park Road, which is a well-marked route. It takes approximately 30-40 minutes to walk to the entrance. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during the hot hours of the day.
Discover more about Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Temple Point
0.2 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Temple Point in Watamu, Kenya - A resort where relaxation meets the beauty of nature and vibrant marine life.
Lichthaus
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets at Lichthaus, the ultimate bar in Watamu, Kenya, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
JC Kite School - Kitesurf Watamu Kenya
0.9 km
Dive into adventure at JC Kite School in Watamu, Kenya, where kitesurfing and breathtaking coastal beauty combine for an unforgettable experience.
Rock and Sea Watamu
1.2 km
Discover culinary delights and serene natural beauty at Rock and Sea Watamu, a hidden gem by Mida Creek.
Watamu Treehouse
1.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Watamu Treehouse, a unique retreat on Kenya's stunning coastline.
Turtle Bay Dive Center
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes at Turtle Bay Dive Center in Watamu, Kenya.
Turtle Bay Beach Resort Watamu
4.2 km
Experience the tropical bliss of Turtle Bay Beach Resort in Watamu, where stunning beaches meet vibrant marine life and unforgettable adventures await.
Medina Palms
4.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Medina Palms, a luxurious beachfront hotel in Watamu, Kenya, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Hemingways Watamu
4.6 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Hemingways Watamu, where stunning ocean views and exceptional service meet the natural beauty of Kenya's coast.
Aqua Ventures
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant underwater world of Watamu with Aqua Ventures, Kenya's top diving center for all skill levels.
Crab Shack Dabaso, Mida Creek
4.8 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Crab Shack Dabaso, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views on Mida Creek.
Watamu Marine Association
5.1 km
Explore marine conservation and sustainable tourism at the Watamu Marine Association, where every visit helps protect Kenya's rich marine biodiversity.
Kenya Dream Safari & tours
6.1 km
Explore Kenya's natural wonders with tailored tours from Kenya Dream Safari & Tours, your expert guide to unforgettable adventures in Watamu.
Shakir Watamu
6.4 km
Explore unique fashion at Shakir Watamu, a premier clothing store in the heart of Kenya's stunning coastal paradise.
In Kenya con Alessandro
6.8 km
Experience the beauty of Kenya with personalized travel services from 'In Kenya con Alessandro', ensuring unforgettable adventures along the stunning coast and beyond.
Unmissable attractions to see
Garoda Beach
0.8 km
Discover the unspoiled beauty of Garoda Beach in Watamu, a nature lover's paradise with stunning sands and vibrant marine life.
Captain Sammy Dhow Boat - Watamu
0.9 km
Explore Watamu's breathtaking coast aboard Captain Sammy Dhow Boat for an unforgettable adventure on the Indian Ocean.
Float trip launch
1.3 km
Experience the beauty of Watamu on a serene float trip, surrounded by nature's wonders and Kenya's stunning coastal scenery.
Mida Creek
1.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Mida Creek, a nature preserve in Watamu, Kenya, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Local Ocean Conservation
1.7 km
Experience the beauty of marine conservation at Local Ocean Conservation in Watamu, where education meets action in protecting our oceans.
Watamu Turtle Watch
1.7 km
Explore the wonders of marine life at Watamu Turtle Watch, a dedicated sanctuary for sea turtle conservation nestled on Kenya's stunning coastline.
Zuri beach
3.2 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Zuri Beach in Watamu, Kenya, where pristine sands and azure waters create a perfect tropical paradise.
Sudi Island Conservation Area
3.8 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Sudi Island Conservation Area, a tranquil escape in Watamu, Kenya.
Watamu Marine National Park
5.2 km
Discover the stunning marine biodiversity and pristine beaches of Watamu Marine National Park, a top destination for nature lovers in Kenya.
Baby shark's beach
5.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at Baby Shark's Beach in Watamu, a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Aquarius beach
5.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Aquarius Beach in Watamu, a tropical paradise with golden sands, vibrant marine life, and warm local hospitality.
Blue bay watamu
5.4 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Blue Bay Watamu, a coastal paradise in Kenya with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.
Watamu Beach
5.9 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Watamu Beach, where pristine sands meet vibrant marine life, creating a tropical paradise for all travelers.
Kamal services watamu
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Watamu at Kamal Services, a top tourist attraction offering authentic Kenyan experiences.
Safari Kenya Con Filippo Bassa Marea
6.3 km
Experience unforgettable whale watching adventures and explore the stunning marine life of Watamu, Kenya, with Safari Kenya Con Filippo Bassa Marea.
Essential places to dine
Tanne's Tavern
2.0 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Tanne's Tavern in Watamu – where fast food meets delightful flavors and warm hospitality.
Pilipan Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience authentic African flavors at Pilipan Restaurant in Watamu - a culinary journey awaits you!
The Blue Turtle Restaurant-Watamu
4.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning views at The Blue Turtle Restaurant in Watamu—where culinary delight meets coastal charm.
Ocean Sports
4.7 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Ocean Sports in Watamu - your gateway to adventure on Kenya's breathtaking coast.
GB Restaurant & Bar Watamu
5.0 km
Savor fresh seafood and Kenyan cuisine at GB Restaurant & Bar while enjoying breathtaking coastal views in Watamu.
Non Solo Gelato - Watamu
5.3 km
Discover Non Solo Gelato in Watamu - your ultimate destination for delicious gelato and authentic Italian cuisine amidst stunning coastal beauty.
Marina Restaurant
5.3 km
Discover the flavors of coastal Kenya at Marina Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views in Watamu.
Mapango Restaurant
5.8 km
Discover Mapango Restaurant in Watamu - where delicious pizza meets Kenyan hospitality on the stunning North coast.
MAMIY'S PIZZA Watamu
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Mamiy's Pizza in Watamu - where every slice tells a story.
Sole Luna
6.0 km
Discover Sole Luna: A Culinary Oasis in Watamu Offering Fresh Local Ingredients and Stunning Ocean Views.
KOKOMO BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT
6.1 km
Experience the best Mediterranean cuisine with stunning ocean views at Kokomo Beach Bar & Restaurant in Watamu.
Swahili Cafe
6.1 km
Savor the essence of Kenyan cuisine at Swahili Cafe in Watamu – where authentic flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Hosteria Romana Watamu
6.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hosteria Romana Watamu—delicious pizzas, fresh pasta & refreshing ice cream by the beautiful Kenyan coast.
Come Back Club
6.2 km
Discover Watamu's premier nightlife hub at Come Back Club - where delicious food meets vibrant entertainment.
Makuti Ristorante Pizzeria
6.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors blended with local Kenyan cuisine at Makuti Ristorante Pizzeria in scenic Watamu.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kunsthaus
0.2 km
Discover a vibrant collection of local art at Kunsthaus in Watamu, a boutique that celebrates creativity and supports local artists.
Veros Pareo e curio Watamu
0.8 km
Explore Veros Pareo e Curio in Watamu for unique gifts, clothing, and authentic African handicrafts that celebrate the local culture.
MABRUK MINI SHOP
5.4 km
Explore Mabruk Mini Shop in Watamu for unique home goods and authentic Kenyan souvenirs, combining style with local craftsmanship.
kj collection watamu
5.6 km
Explore KJ Collection Watamu for unique fashion accessories that reflect the vibrant culture and charm of this coastal paradise.
Uk Bella Collections
5.7 km
Explore Uk Bella Collections in Watamu for the latest in fashion, where local style meets international trends in a vibrant shopping experience.
Coast and Shabby
5.8 km
Explore the coastal charm of Watamu at Coast and Shabby, your go-to home goods store for unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship.
Watamu Supermarket & Boutique
5.9 km
Explore Watamu Supermarket & Boutique for fresh local produce, unique gifts, and an authentic taste of Kenyan culture.
Vintage Fashion
5.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of vintage accessories at Vintage Fashion in Watamu, where every piece has a story to tell.
Shukrani Shop
6.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Kenya at Shukrani Shop, Watamu's premier food store for fresh produce and local delicacies.
Baraka Shop
6.0 km
Discover the flavors of Watamu at Baraka Shop, your go-to destination for fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.
Glory boutique, Watamu
6.0 km
Explore Glory Boutique in Watamu for unique Kenyan crafts, fashion, and souvenirs that reflect the vibrant coastal culture.
SALIMS SHOP B Watamu
6.1 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Salim's Shop in Watamu, where local culture meets convenience in a delightful general store experience.
MAMA AFRICA BOUTIQUE
6.2 km
Explore the vibrant essence of African fashion at Mama Africa Boutique, where unique styles and local craftsmanship converge in Watamu.
Joyce's Shop
6.2 km
Discover authentic Kenyan crafts and souvenirs at Joyce's Shop in Watamu, a vibrant store embodying local culture and craftsmanship.
Cutie - NNA Collection
6.2 km
Explore the vibrant local craftsmanship at Cutie - NNA Collection, a boutique in Watamu offering unique souvenirs and authentic gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
White Rock Club
4.9 km
Discover the lively White Rock Club in Watamu, where vibrant nightlife meets stunning views and welcoming ambiance.
Great dream
5.0 km
Experience the charm of Great Dream Wine Bar in Watamu, where exquisite wines and serene ambiance come together for a memorable evening.
Africano Beach Bar & Restaurant
5.9 km
Explore the vibrant Africano Beach Bar & Restaurant, a coastal haven in Watamu, offering delicious cuisine and stunning ocean views.
King Of Love Bat
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing tropical cocktails at King Of Love Bat in Watamu, the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing.
Palace Bar and Restaurant
5.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and relaxing atmosphere at Palace Bar and Restaurant in Watamu, where delicious cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
PARADISE beach bar and restaurant
6.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views at Paradise Beach Bar and Restaurant in Watamu, a true tropical escape.
Kibali Bar
6.1 km
Discover the serene ambiance and vibrant flavors at Kibali Bar in Watamu, where relaxation meets local culture in a stunning coastal setting.
Mawimbi Watamu Lodge Restaurant Bar Pizzeria
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant Mawimbi Watamu Lodge, a beachfront bar and pizzeria perfect for relaxation and delicious culinary delights in Watamu, Kenya.
torta carota
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant coastal charm of Torta Carota in Watamu, where refreshing drinks and local flavors await in a picturesque beachfront setting.
Mexicano Bar
6.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Watamu at Mexicano Bar, a lively hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
maria's pub
6.6 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Kenya at Maria's Pub, a grill paradise in the heart of Watamu, Malindi, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Migro Bar & Restaurant
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Migro Bar & Restaurant in Watamu, where local cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
Coconut Beach Café
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Coconut Beach Café in Watamu, where stunning ocean views meet delicious food and drinks in a tropical paradise.
MAMA AFRICA PUB
7.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mama Africa Pub in Watamu, where local culture meets refreshing drinks in a lively setting.
Carwash Bar and Restaurant
7.7 km
Experience the taste of Watamu at Carwash Bar and Restaurant, where delicious grilled dishes meet a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
