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Top reasons to visit Watamu

• 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.

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.