Watamu Beach is the ideal location to unwind following a wildlife safari trip from Maasai mara or Amboseli national park because of its coconut palm trees, soft white sand, and comforting warm water. Watamu, a small town with a population of about 30,000, is found on Kenya’s coast. Mombasa, the oldest city in Kenya, is about 105 kilometers north of Watamu, which is 15 kilometers south of Malindi. In addition to being a great place for diving and snorkeling due to its crystal-clear waters, Watamu Beach is also home to a wide variety of species.
Around 1 km off the coast of Watamu Beach, the Watamu Marine National Park is home to 600 different species of fish, 110 different kinds of stony coral, and innumerable invertebrates, crabs, and molluscs. Italian immigrants, who are well-represented in Watamu, have made their imprint on the regional food by importing real Italian pizza and ice cream. The cosmopolitan town of Watamu combines Italian, Kenyan, and Arab influences.
Climate at Watamu Beach
There are two rainy seasons in Watamu. The long season begins in April and runs through June, while the short season occurs in November and December. Additionally, there are two dry seasons in the area. The brief one is from January through February and the beginning of March. From July to October, there is a protracted dry season.
The Ideal Season to Visit
The entire year is the best time to visit Watamu. Although (July to October) this is the longest dry season and the time of year when the skies are clear and sunny and the seashore is cool, it is best to visit.
Tourist Attractions and Activities: Things to see and Do at Watamu
White sand beaches and offshore coral formations can be found along the region’s coastline. These features are protected because they are a part of the Watamu Marine National Park, which is located in bays and beaches like Garoda Beach, Turtle Bay, Blue Lagoon Bay, Watamu Bay, Ocean Breeze, and Jacaranda Beach.
Midas Creek and Watamu Marine Park: Midas Creek and Watamu Marine Park are located at the southern end of Watamu Beach. It is a peaceful area home to weaverbirds, crayfish, and black kites, and village life hasn’t altered much from this century to the present. The coral reefs that make up the marine park’s 90-mile ocean sweep serve as its structural support.
1000 different fish species, including whale sharks, manta rays, dugongs, and olive, rindy, and Hawksbill turtles, can be found in the park. It is recognized as the third greatest beach in Africa and one of the top parks for snorkeling and diving along the East African coast. The park boasts beaches with silver sand and crystal-clear water.
Turtle Watch at Watamu: Approximately 50 green turtles that lay their eggs on Watamu Beach are protected by this organization. The center informs the neighborhood about how vulnerable sea turtles are. The trip is worthwhile. Visitors can observe turtles receiving medical attention for wounds or illnesses while also learning about these stunning animals.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm and Laboratory: It is one of the most well-known research facilities for snakes in the world. For anyone who has been bitten by a snake in the area, Bio-ken provides emergency assistance. There are guided tours offered at the center. You will be introduced to venomous beauties like the puff adder, horned viper, black mamba, black spitting cobra, and more.
Snorkeling: It is a well-liked activity off the coast of Watamu, but a permit is required. A permit may be purchased at the Kenya Wildlife Service Hut, which is close to Turtle Bay Beach Resort. A boat operator will charge you about KSH 2,500 for the short, 1-kilometer trip to Watamu Marine National Park, which is an excellent place for snorkeling. Expect to see moray eels, damselfish, and lionfish.
Diving: The warm, clear waters of Watamu range in temperature from 25 to 30°C all year, with visibility ranging from 5 to 25 meters. Twenty excellent dive sites are available at Watamu, all of which are situated on the fringing reefs that encircle the Kenyan coastline. Each site is a part of the Watamu Marine National Park and is about a half-hour boat ride from the town. While diving is a year-round pastime, the neighboring lagoon may be your only option during the wet season.
Getting there: How to reach Watamu Beach
Malindi and Mombasa are close to Watamu Beach, and flights from Nairobi can take you there. The trip to Watamu from Malindi Airport takes 30 minutes and can cost up to KSH 3,000 in a taxi. The majority of hotels provide an airport transportation service.
The drive from Mombasa is a little bit longer and will take about 90 minutes. Up to KSH 8,000 will be required for the cab ride. Although it is possible to drive from Nairobi, the long road trip takes around 8 hours. To cut down on travel time, we advise flying to Malindi or Mombasa.
