Watamu Beach is Situated on the North Coast of Kenya, approximately 100km North of Mombasa and 20km South of Malindi, this stunning little escape boasts powder-white beaches bordering the crystal clear coral waters of the protected Watamu Marine Park a spectacular coral reef alive with tropical fish and only a short boat ride, or energetic swim at low tide.
Watamu (means “home of the sweet people” in Swahili) is a small village that enjoys a friendly community feeling; it is a small although rapidly growing area where most people know and recognize each other, located on the Kenyan coast.
Watamu has developed an international reputation for its pristine white-sand beaches and reef-protected lagoons, which line the Watamu National Marine Park and Reserves, which are the oldest in East Africa and cover over 229 kilo meters squired. The marine protected areas are also recognized internationally as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This means that the area is designated as a site of natural excellence, and should demonstrate how local people and the environment can co –exist through careful stewardship of our natural marine resources and human assets.
The Marine Park and Reserve is renowned worldwide for its natural beauty and boasts a rich marine life from the visiting Whale Sharks and Manta Rays to three species of Sea Turtle. The Park and its coral gardens are one of the main justifications for visiting Watamu. There is an exceptional shoreline with Watamu voted one of the top ten beaches in the world; steeped in natural fauna and flora and with three stunning bays, Watamu, Blue Lagoon and Turtle Bay.
Water sports abound, including Kite-Surfing, Wind-Surfing, Kayaking and Snorkeling (Goggling). Beyond the marine park the Deep Sea Fishing is world renowned, with the majority of boats supporting the 'Tag and Release' programme.
The smooth white beach of Watamu, which slides gently into shallow, turquoise water, forms part of the Malindi Marine Reserve Park, a marine protected area. The snorkeling and diving around the offshore coral formations is said to be the best in East Africa.
It’s good to know and point out that Watamu is an important breeding ground for green and hawksbill turtles.
The Mida Creek is a wonderful place for a quiet day trip as the mud flats and mangroves are home to a multitude of birds. You may like to wander in to Watamu village for a spot of shopping or take a trip to the Gedi Ruins, a mysteriously abandoned Swahili city.
Watamu has a handful of luxury high end world class hotels as well as a number of private beach front homes. The beach is a shimmering stretch of white sand - perfect for relaxation.
Watamu is perfect for an Indian Ocean tropical beach holiday and close to Tsavo National Park for wildlife safaris.
Why Visit Watamu Beach, Kenya's Coastline.
- Visit one of the top beaches in the world voted by fellow travelers from around the world Watamu Beach.
- Explore Watamu Marine National Park a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve off the Watamu Beach coast.
- Enjoy the water sports including Kite-Surfing, Wind-Surfing, Kayaking and Snorkeling at Watamu Beach.
- Go Deep Sea Fishing beyond the marine park in the Indian Ocean from Watamu Beach.
- The warm hospitality of the people of Watamu.
- The laid back feeling of Watamu makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
- The superior high class word class accommodations available along the Watamu Beach shores.
- The ability to combine a beach holiday with a safari especially to the Tsavo National Park and other parks, reserves and conservancies in the East African interior bush.
Featured Watamu Beach, Safari Holiday Vacation Trips
Kenya Family Safari & Beach Holiday Vacation - 13 Days
Kenya Family Safari & Beach Holiday Vacation - 13 Days. Adventure is ‘key’ in this family safari to the Masai Mara with a magical stay on the beaches of Kenya. A safari like this will allow all...