Map of Watamu, Kenya

🏖️ What to do in Watamu

Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Watamu with a range of exciting activities that cater to every budget. From water sports to wildlife encounters, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this coastal paradise.

• Best Budget Activity in Watamu:

  Snorkeling at Malindi Marine Park: Explore the colorful marine life and coral reefs on a budget-friendly snorkeling adventure at the Malindi Marine Park.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Watamu:

  Mida Creek Canoeing: Paddle through the tranquil waters of Mida Creek and witness mangrove forests, birdlife, and stunning scenery on a mid-range canoeing excursion.

• Best Luxury Activity in Watamu:

  Deep-Sea Fishing Charter: Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Indian Ocean aboard a luxury fishing charter, targeting marlin, sailfish, and other big game fish.

🍽️ Where to eat in Watamu

Indulge in the culinary delights of Watamu, known for its fresh seafood, Swahili flavors, and vibrant street food scene. Don't miss out on feasting on mouthwatering dishes like grilled lobster, mahamri, and pilau.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Watamu:

  Pilipan Restaurant•$ - $$:

  Cuisine specialty: Local Kenyan dishes and seafood

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Watamu:

  Ocean Sports Resort•$$ - $$$:

  Cuisine specialty: International cuisine with a focus on seafood

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Watamu:

  Lonno Lodge•$$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining featuring a fusion of Italian and Swahili flavors

• Best Budget Bar in Watamu:

  Pilipan Bar•$:

  Fresh fruit cocktails

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Watamu:

  Morjana Bar & Restaurant•$$ - $$$:

  Swahili spiced cocktails

• Best Luxury Bar in Watamu:

  Hemingways Watamu•$$$$:

  Premium selection of wines and champagnes

🏝️ What to see in Watamu

Discover the enchanting landmarks and natural wonders that make Watamu a must-visit destination, boasting pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and historical sites that capture the essence of this coastal town.

• Watamu Marine National Park

  Explore the underwater world of the marine park, home to colorful coral reefs, dolphins, turtles, and a variety of tropical fish species.

• Gede Ruins

  Step back in time at the Gede Ruins, an archaeological site showcasing the remains of a Swahili town dating back to the 12th century.

• Bio-Ken Snake Farm

  Learn about Kenya's snake species and reptiles at the Bio-Ken Snake Farm, where you can witness venom extraction and educational demonstrations.

• Arabuko Sokoke Forest

  Embark on a nature walk through the Arabuko Sokoke Forest, a biodiversity hotspot home to rare bird species, butterflies, and indigenous trees.

• Watamu Beach

  Relax on the white sandy shores of Watamu Beach, a picture-perfect stretch of coastline ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports activities.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Watamu

Indulge in a shopping spree in Watamu, where you can find a variety of unique souvenirs, local crafts, and beachwear to take home as mementos of your coastal getaway.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Watamu:

  Watamu Artisan Market: Explore handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs at affordable prices at the Watamu Artisan Market.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Watamu:

  Blue Marmalade Boutique: Discover trendy beachwear, accessories, and resort wear at the Blue Marmalade Boutique, offering a stylish selection for mid-range shoppers.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Watamu:

  Hemingways Watamu Boutique: Shop for high-end fashion, jewelry, and designer goods at the Hemingways Watamu Boutique, known for its luxury offerings and exclusive items.

🚌 Getting Around Watamu

• Public Transport

  In Watamu, the primary mode of public transport is through matatus, which are minibus vans operating on set routes. These colorful vans are affordable and frequent, making them a convenient option for getting around the area. The price for a matatu ride typically ranges from 50-100 Kenyan Shillings, depending on the distance traveled. The schedules can vary, but generally, they run from early morning until late evening.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  For those looking to access Watamu by air, Malindi Airport is the nearest airport to Watamu, located approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, travelers can easily access Watamu via taxi or private transfer services. While there are no train stations in Watamu, the Malindi Railway Station serves as the closest operational station, connecting to various parts of Kenya.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Visitors can opt for car rentals in Watamu from reputable providers such as Avis, Hertz, or local agencies like Zoom Rent a Car. Prices can start from 3000 Kenyan Shillings per day for a basic car. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly way to explore Watamu, bicycle rentals are available from shops like Watamu Bike Rentals or Eco Cycles. Prices can range from 500 Kenyan Shillings per day for a standard bicycle.