"We had an amazing stay, the staff were all so friendly and helpful, the setting is beautiful, food is great, couldn't have asked for a better experience."
"We had an amazing stay, the staff were all so friendly and helpful, the setting is beautiful, food is great, couldn't have asked for a better experience."
"This was a fantastic place to stay. The staff were lovely and the hotel facilities and good were top notch. The Tuk Tuk driver, Kodak, they recommended became a core part of our trip. Recommended."
"This was a fantastic place to stay. The staff were lovely and the hotel facilities and good were top notch. The Tuk Tuk driver, Kodak, they recommended became a core part of our trip. Recommended."
"A lovely beach resort where you can relax and feel safe. Staff were very attentive. The restaurant served delicious Italian seafood dishes. The pools and beach are gorgeous. I would return."
"A lovely beach resort where you can relax and feel safe. Staff were very attentive. The restaurant served delicious Italian seafood dishes. The pools and beach are gorgeous. I would return."
"Lonno Lodge is a wonderful, peaceful small boutique hotel with ocean views, a large pool and delicious food. The staff were always very friendly and helpful. There are nearby restaurants/clubs with sandy beaches."
"Lonno Lodge is a wonderful, peaceful small boutique hotel with ocean views, a large pool and delicious food. The staff were always very friendly and helpful. There are nearby restaurants/clubs with sandy beaches."
"the property is very clean and all the staff are extremely friendly. They made me feel very relaxed and safe. Most days I had the sole use of the pool! Perhaps the chef could do with a few pointers and it would have been great to have a small fridge in my room which was lovely and clean. was well cared for and really enjoyed my stay....5 gold stars!"
"the property is very clean and all the staff are extremely friendly. They made me feel very relaxed and safe. Most days I had the sole use of the pool! Perhaps the chef could do with a few pointers and it would have been great to have a small fridge in my room which was lovely and clean. was well cared for and really enjoyed my stay....5 gold stars!"
"Nydelig område med fantastisk basseng midt mellom husene. Store rom med deilig uteområde (balkong). Tilbereding av frokost som ble servert på balkongen - topp start på dagen. Hyggelige ansatte. "
"Nydelig område med fantastisk basseng midt mellom husene. Store rom med deilig uteområde (balkong). Tilbereding av frokost som ble servert på balkongen - topp start på dagen. Hyggelige ansatte. "
"I had the best stay here. The staffs are really nice, the space looks & feels beautiful😍, the ambience is top notch. I will definitely come back again & again💯💯"
"I had the best stay here. The staffs are really nice, the space looks & feels beautiful😍, the ambience is top notch. I will definitely come back again & again💯💯"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Snorkel among vibrant coral gardens in Watamu Marine National Park, where sea turtles glide through crystal-clear waters. Explore ancient Gede Ruins nearby in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, then relax on pristine white sand beaches with local seafood.
This must rate as one of the best hotels i have ever stayed in.
The food is fabulous. An outdoor restaurant. Great seafood.
The room was great. Clean and beautiful. I really liked it.
The facilities are great. A beach and lovely swimming pools.
I will go back for sure.
This must rate as one of the best hotels i have ever stayed in.
The food is fabulous. An outdoor restaurant. Great seafood.
The room was great. Clean and beautiful. I really liked it.
The facilities are great. A beach and lovely swimming pools.
I will go back for sure.
Excellent hotel with friendly staff that go beyond call of duty to make sure everything about your stay is perfect. Victor, the food and beverages manager, was amazing and I would recommend the hotel above any in Watamu
Excellent hotel with friendly staff that go beyond call of duty to make sure everything about your stay is perfect. Victor, the food and beverages manager, was amazing and I would recommend the hotel above any in Watamu
The private pool is not something I have come across before and it turned out to be a pretty special feature. The only minor letdown was the room itself. It was very dark almost dungeon like and why they put a bed that you need a ladder to get into is just beyond me. I even feel its unsafe especially for older patrons and children. Overall I would rate it at 7.5 out of 10.
The private pool is not something I have come across before and it turned out to be a pretty special feature. The only minor letdown was the room itself. It was very dark almost dungeon like and why they put a bed that you need a ladder to get into is just beyond me. I even feel its unsafe especially for older patrons and children. Overall I would rate it at 7.5 out of 10.
This is a great place to relax, but there is not a lot to do at the hotel or within walking distance. The plunge pools with villa are fantastic! Due to the tides in the area, you can only swim in the ocean at high tide, and the water has a lot of seaweed.
The restaurant is amazing, we really enjoyed all of our meals and the staff were always friendly and helpful.
This is a great place to relax, but there is not a lot to do at the hotel or within walking distance. The plunge pools with villa are fantastic! Due to the tides in the area, you can only swim in the ocean at high tide, and the water has a lot of seaweed.
The restaurant is amazing, we really enjoyed all of our meals and the staff were always friendly and helpful.
Stunning Beaches: Watamu boasts beautiful beaches like Watamu Bay and Watamu Beach, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
Marine Adventures: Explore the vibrant marine life at Watamu Marine National Park, ideal for snorkelling and diving.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoy various outdoor pursuits including golf, safaris, and eco-friendly tours.
Cultural Experiences: Visit nearby Lamu Island for a taste of rich culture and friendly local interactions.
Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxury hotels, guesthouses, and resorts tailored to all preferences.
Find great hotels in Watamu
Discover a range of accommodation options in Watamu, Kilifi County, perfect for your Kenyan getaway. Whether you're seeking a luxury hotel, a charming guesthouse, or an inclusive resort, Watamu offers something for everyone. Enjoy family-friendly and pet-friendly options, all set against the stunning backdrop of the beach. Make your stay memorable with the best services and facilities tailored to your holiday needs.
Turtle Bay Beach Club: Embrace the tranquil charm of Turtle Bay Beach Club, a 3-star resort offering an idyllic beach vacation experience in Watamu. Rated 8.4 out of 10 by guests, this property boasts direct access to the stunning shoreline, allowing you to unwind by the ocean. With a casual and friendly atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for travellers seeking a laid-back seaside retreat, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying water activities.
Lily Palm Resort: Experience the vibrant family-friendly atmosphere at Lily Palm Resort, a 4-star hotel that caters to beach lovers and families alike. Located in the heart of Watamu, this property provides direct beach access and thoughtful amenities for children, including babysitting services and a dedicated children's pool. With its comfortable accommodations and family-oriented facilities, it's a welcoming haven for those looking to create lasting memories with loved ones.
Sun Palm Beach Resort: Discover luxury and family fun at Sun Palm Beach Resort, a 4.5-star accommodation that provides an upscale beach experience in Watamu. Ideal for families, this resort features direct beach access and an array of children's amenities, including supervised childcare, a playground, and engaging games. The elegant atmosphere combined with thoughtful services ensures a memorable stay, perfect for those wishing to relax while enjoying quality time with their family.
Where to stay in and around Watamu
Watamu, a stunning coastal gem in Kilifi County, offers sublime beaches perfect for a relaxing getaway. With easy beach access, you can bask in the sun or indulge in thrilling water sports. Nearby, Lamu Island invites adventure and romance with its rich culture and friendly locals. Whether you seek recreation or a tranquil retreat, Watamu's vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking scenery will leave you enchanted and rejuvenated.
Malindi: Situated approximately 17.7km from Watamu, Malindi is a vibrant coastal city that attracts visitors year-round, with peaks in September and December to January. Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, travellers can indulge in golfing and explore captivating landscapes. The area boasts local landmarks such as beautiful beaches and tranquil lakes, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures. Experience the lively culture and savour local cuisine as you immerse yourself in this picturesque coastal gem.
Watamu Marine National Park: Nestled around the Watamu area, this marine park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With moderate seasonal visitor numbers peaking in August and December to January, Watamu Marine National Park offers pristine beaches and rich marine life. Engage in thrilling activities like snorkelling and swimming, or take guided tours to explore the fascinating local history. Notable attractions include ancient ruins and stunning coastal views, making it an ideal destination for a unique cultural experience.
Kijiwetanga: Located about 11.3km from Watamu, Kijiwetanga is a charming village that provides a serene escape for outdoor lovers and adventurers. With a moderately seasonal influx of visitors peaking in August and December to January, Kijiwetanga is celebrated for its scenic beauty and proximity to national parks. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to exploring the nearby beaches, as you connect with nature. This tranquil village offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect addition to your travel itinerary.
Things to do in Watamu
Shopping
In Watamu, you can explore local markets like the Watamu Market for handcrafted souvenirs and beachwear. If you're up for a drive, visit the City Mall in Mombasa for a wider variety of shops and dining options, about 48.3km away.
Recreation
Watamu's Yoga and Wellness Retreat offers a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, featuring daily yoga sessions by the beach and holistic treatments. Explore the vibrant marine life at Watamu Marine National Park, where snorkelling and diving unveil stunning coral reefs and diverse aquatic species.
Adventure
Explore the underwater world at Watamu Marine National Park, where you can snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. For a thrilling adventure, try kitesurfing at the pristine beaches, enjoying the wind and waves while soaking up the warm sun.
Nightlife
In Watamu, the lively atmosphere comes alive at the local beach bars, where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and live music by the ocean. The nearby clubs offer vibrant dance floors, while quieter lounges provide a relaxed vibe to unwind after a day of exploring.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Watamu
To save money on your trip to Watamu, consider visiting during the cheaper months of April to May and November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Use Expedia for last-minute deals and remember that Tuesday is the least expensive day to stay. You can also save by combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package. For local transport, look for affordable public options, and explore the stunning beaches and nature reserves for free activities to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Watamu are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Watamu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Watamu is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Watamu is Sunday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Take advantage of Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Watamu hotel reservation with flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Watamu
Watamu is a stunning destination for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of attractions such as Watamu Marine National Park, Watamu Bay Beach, and the picturesque Watamu Beach. Ideal for eco-friendly travellers, this coastal gem provides opportunities to soak in the beautiful scenery and explore its natural wonders. Don't miss the chance to experience the vibrant marine life and tranquil waters of Watamu Marine Park during your visit.
Watamu Beach: Known for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters, Watamu Beach offers a tranquil escape where you can sunbathe, swim, or enjoy various water sports. The beach's relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for soaking up the sun and enjoying the picturesque coastal views.
Mida Creek: This serene water feature is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching. With its lush mangroves and calm waters, Mida Creek provides a romantic and peaceful setting, perfect for leisurely exploration and relaxation amidst stunning scenery.
Ruins of Gedi: Step back in time at the Ruins of Gedi, an ancient Swahili town that showcases fascinating architecture and rich history. Surrounded by lush forest, the site offers a glimpse into the culture of the region, making it a captivating spot for history enthusiasts.
Best time to go to Watamu
The best time to visit Watamu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
81.0°F (27.2°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
February
81.0°F (27.2°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
March
82.6°F (28.1°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
April
82.4°F (28.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
May
80.4°F (26.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
June
79.0°F (26.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
July
77.5°F (25.3°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
August
77.4°F (25.2°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
September
77.9°F (25.5°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
October
79.2°F (26.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
November
80.8°F (27.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
December
81.5°F (27.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Watamu
Flying to Watamu, Kilifi County is convenient with several nearby airports. Mombasa Moi International Airport (MBA) is 90.1km away, with hotels like PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa and Cocoa Boutique Hotel offering various transportation services. Malindi Airport (MYD) is a mere 14.5km from Watamu, and top options include Ocean Beach Resort & Spa and Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa, both providing airport shuttles. Ukunda Airport (UKA) is located 117.5km away, with luxurious stays at Leopard Beach Resort & Spa and Swahili Beach Resort, offering shuttle services as well. Each airport presents accessible options for a smooth arrival to your vacation destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Watamu?
The best area to stay in Watamu is along the main beaches, particularly around Watamu Beach and Turtle Bay.
Watamu Beach is very popular, known for its clear waters and white sands. It's a great spot for those who enjoy being right by the ocean, with many hotels and resorts dotted along the coastline. You'll find a good selection of places to eat and shops nearby, making it convenient for a relaxed holiday.
Turtle Bay is another excellent choice, especially for couples and families. This area is part of the Watamu Marine National Park, so the waters are protected and ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Many resorts here offer direct beach access and activities like boat trips to see the marine life.
What are the best hotels in Watamu that travellers recommend?
Two of the best hotels in Watamu that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are Medina Palms and Hemingways Watamu.
The Medina Palms, with an exceptional 9.8 rating, is a superb choice for those seeking luxury. It is located just 0.4 km from Watamu Beach and offers amenities such as private plunge pools, air conditioning, and the option of a private chef. Guests frequently highlight the friendly staff.
Another highly recommended option is the Hemingways Watamu, which has a 9.2 rating. This hotel is 1.5 km from Watamu Beach and provides premium bedding, air conditioning, 24-hour room service, and a 24-hour airport shuttle, making it very convenient. Many guests praise the amazing food and first-class staff.
Both hotels offer excellent experiences for travellers visiting Watamu.
The Medina Palms, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, is a superb choice for families. It provides on-site babysitting and childcare services, complimentary cots, and highchairs for children. There is also a children's club and a pool for guests to enjoy. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff, and Watamu Beach is conveniently just 0.4 km away.
Another highly-rated option is the Hemingways Watamu, which boasts a 9.2 rating. This hotel offers on-site babysitting and childcare, a dedicated children's pool, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests consistently praise the amazing food and the first-class staff. Watamu Beach is located 1.5 km from the hotel.
The Sun Palm Beach Resort, rated 7.4, is also a great choice for families. It features on-site babysitting and childcare, complimentary cots and rollaway extra beds, and games for children. There is a children's pool, free supervised childcare, and a playground for younger guests. Watamu Beach is 3.7 km away. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Watamu
This luxurious lodge, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating, offers a truly premium experience. Guests can enjoy designer toiletries and premium bedding in their premium suites, many of which feature stunning sea views. The lodge also provides a private beach, a delightful poolside bar, and a poolside restaurant for convenient dining. It is located approximately 6.6 km from Watamu Beach. Find more luxury hotels in Watamu
The Turtle Bay Beach Club, with an 8.4 rating, is a popular choice and offers a convenient 24-hour airport shuttle service, an outdoor pool with sun loungers, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests frequently comment on the good food and clean rooms. It is also located just 1.2 km from Watamu Beach.
The AHG Lion Beach Resort, rated 7.4, provides an extensive all-inclusive experience with an on-site spa offering various treatments such as body treatments, massages, manicures, pedicures, and facials. Guests often praise the good food, beautiful location, nice pool, and great rooms. It is situated 3.0 km from Watamu Beach.
Another great option is the Barracuda Inn Resort, which offers a private beach area and an outdoor pool with sun loungers. This resort also provides a scheduled 24-hour airport shuttle service and is 3.0 km from Watamu Beach. See more all-inclusive resorts in Watamu
The Medina Palms, with an outstanding rating of 9.8, offers a full-service spa with a wide array of treatments including body scrubs, sports massages, deep tissue massages, and hot stone massages. Couples treatment rooms are also available. Guests frequently mention the friendly staff. The hotel is conveniently located just 0.4 km from Watamu Beach.
Another superb option is the Hemingways Watamu, which has a 9.2 rating. Its full-service spa provides body wraps, manicures, pedicures, and various facial treatments. Guests consistently praise the amazing food and first-class staff. This hotel is situated 1.5 km from Watamu Beach. See all spa hotels in Watamu
The Turtle Bay Beach Club, with an 8.4 rating, offers lovely ocean views and is located just 1.2 km from Watamu Beach. Guests appreciate the convenience of an airport shuttle that operates 24 hours a day, an outdoor pool with sun loungers, and complimentary self-parking and WiFi. Many guests have also commented positively on the good food and clean rooms.
Another excellent choice is the Aquarius Club International Resort, rated 7.8. This resort provides complimentary self-parking, free buffet breakfast, and allows pets to stay without charge. It also offers a 24-hour airport shuttle service for added convenience. See more stays near the beach in Watamu
The Kobe Suite Resort, with an impressive 9.6 rating, provides a free buffet breakfast. It is conveniently located just 2.5 km from Watamu Beach.
Another excellent option is the Charming Lonno Lodge, also rated 9.6. This hotel offers a free cooked breakfast and features a 24-hour airport shuttle service and complimentary self-parking.
The Blue Bay Village, rated 9.4, also includes a free buffet breakfast. This hotel is close to both Prawn Lake (2.1 km) and Watamu Beach (2.0 km), and offers an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and sun loungers.
The Aquarius Club International Resort, with a 7.8 rating, is a great option for those travelling with pets, as pets stay free and food and water bowls are provided. This resort also offers a complimentary buffet breakfast and a 24-hour airport shuttle service, adding to the convenience. It is located just 2.8 km from Watamu Beach, making it easy to enjoy the local surroundings.
Another excellent choice is the Eco Villas Watamu, which boasts an impressive 9.0 rating. This hotel is very welcoming to pets, providing food and water bowls, and even offers pet sitting services. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool and sun loungers, making for a relaxing stay for both pets and their owners.
The Turtle Bay Beach Club, rated 8.4, offers complimentary self-parking and a 24-hour airport shuttle, providing convenient transport options. Guests have praised the quality of the food and the cleanliness of the rooms. This hotel is also conveniently located just 1.2 km from both Prawn Lake and Watamu Beach.
Another excellent choice is the Eco Villas Watamu, which has a 9.0 rating. This hotel provides free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, complete with sun loungers and umbrellas, great for relaxation.
What are the most romantic hotels in Watamu for couples?
The Medina Palms, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, is particularly well-suited for couples. It offers couples dining experiences and a full-service spa with various treatments, including couples' treatment rooms, body scrubs, sports massage, and deep tissue massage. It is also conveniently located just 0.4 km from Watamu Beach.
Another great option is the Sun Palm Beach Resort, rated 7.4. This resort also provides couples dining and a range of spa treatments in couples' treatment rooms, such as massage, manicures, pedicures, and hot stone massage. Many rooms offer lovely ocean or sea views from a balcony.
The AHG Lion Beach Resort, with a 7.4 rating, features couples' treatment rooms as part of its on-site spa, offering body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and sports massage. Guests frequently comment on the beautiful location and great rooms.
What are the best hotels in Watamu near Watamu Beach?
The Medina Palms, with an exceptional rating of 9.8, is an excellent choice as it is located just 0.4 km from Watamu Beach. This hotel is family-friendly, offering amenities such as babysitting services, complimentary cribs, highchairs for children, and a swimming pool. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff.
Another great option is the Hemingways Watamu, rated 9.2, which is 1.5 km from the beach. This hotel also provides babysitting services, a children's pool, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests particularly highlight the amazing food and first-class staff.
The Turtle Bay Beach Club, with a rating of 8.4, is located 1.2 km from Watamu Beach. It offers a playground for children, supervised childcare, a children's pool, babysitting services, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests often mention the good food and clean rooms.
When is the best time to go to Watamu?
The best time to go to Watamu is during the dry seasons, which run from July to October and from December to March.
These periods offer consistently warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the marine parks. The sea is typically calm and clear, great for snorkelling, diving, and boat trips. It's also an excellent time for wildlife viewing at nearby reserves.
Couples looking for a romantic escape will find these months particularly appealing. The pleasant weather allows for beautiful sunset strolls along the pristine beaches, intimate dinners by the sea, and undisturbed days relaxing by the water. Many resorts offer special experiences during these peak times.
Families travelling with children will also appreciate the dry season. The stable weather ensures that planned activities like swimming, building sandcastles, and exploring the local area aren't disrupted by rain.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Watamu.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Watamu with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Watamu hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Watamu?
Prices for hotels in Watamu often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$54 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.