Watamu, a coastal town in Kilifi County, Kenya, is a paradise for beach lovers. With its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Watamu is the perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The town is also home to natural parks and gardens, offering a relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Tembo Village in Watamu is a popular choice for accommodations, with its beautiful resorts and convenient location. Whether you're looking for a beach holiday or a chance to explore the natural beauty of Kenya, Watamu is the ideal destination for your next holiday.

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Our top choices for Watamu hotels




1. Hemingways Watamu
Hemingways Watamu



2. Medina Palms
Medina Palms



3. Visiwa Beach Resort
Visiwa Beach Resort



4. Blue Bay Village
Blue Bay Village



5. Watamu Adventist Resort
Watamu Adventist Resort



6. Kobe Suite Resort
Kobe Suite Resort



8. Watamu Ascot Hotel
Watamu Ascot Hotel



9. AHG Lion Beach Resort
AHG Lion Beach Resort



10. The Charming Lonno Lodge
The Charming Lonno Lodge



11. Sun Palm Beach Resort
Sun Palm Beach Resort



12. GK Palm Resort Watamu
GK Palm Resort Watamu



13. The One Watamu Bay
The One Watamu Bay



14. Rafiki Tamu Residential Resort
Rafiki Tamu Residential Resort



15. Rock and Sea Resort
Rock and Sea Resort



16. Marijani Holiday Resort Watamu
Marijani Holiday Resort Watamu



18. Thami House Watamu
Thami House Watamu



19. Twiga Beach & Spa
Twiga Beach & Spa



20. Mvuvi Lodge Watamu
Mvuvi Lodge WatamuWhere to stay in Watamu
Watamu Village
While Watamu Village isn't home to many top sights, Watamu Beach and Ruins of Gedi are some notable places to visit nearby.
Turtle Bay Area
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Turtle Bay Area and surrounding area, you can visit Watamu Beach and Ruins of Gedi.
Stay near popular Watamu attractions

Watamu Beach

Mida Creek
Ruins of Gedi
Prawn Lake
Learn more about Watamu
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.
See all hotels in Watamu
Top Watamu Hotel Reviews
Turtle Bay Beach Club
"Had a fantastic stay at Turtle Beach. The room was clean, but very hard beds. The food was varied with multiple options for every meal. The staff was friendly and helpful, but it was frustrating the number that asked about jobs in Canada and offering private tours. I would definitely stay again and recommend to others"
Hemingways Watamu
"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."
Visiwa Beach Resort
"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."
AHG Lion Beach Resort
"Worth the money. Food and drinks are pretty good too."
Medina Palms
"Good hotel!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
The ONE
"Nice quiet breezy location - 3 pools , though the games items are pretty worn. More of a local cuisine and customer service."
Watamu Ascot Hotel
"Clean room, friendly staff, nice pool"
Rock and Sea Resort
"Wonderful place, for people looking to seek a different type of experience, we stayed in the lagoon bubble lodge, lovely view of the lagoon. Monkeys jumping on top in the morning which we were lucky to see as we slept. One of the best pools to swim and relax. Staff and owners very welcoming and helpfull. Lovely facility of boat ride to take you to otherside which by road takes 50 mins. Would definitely recommend to people seeking a luxury outdoor experience."
Mvuvi Lodge Watamu
"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!"
More cheap stays in Watamu

Travellers Inn Resort Malindi

Paradise Lagoon B&B

GK Palm Resort Watamu

The One Watamu Bay
Hotels in Watamu with star rating

3 Star Hotels
Find out more about Watamu
Tropical paradise with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life
Top reasons to visit Watamu
- Stunning Beaches: Watamu boasts breathtaking beaches like Watamu Beach and Watamu Bay Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Watamu Marine National Park: Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in this protected area, ideal for snorkelling and diving.
- Safari Adventures: Embark on thrilling safaris in nearby parks, experiencing Kenya's incredible wildlife.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit Lamu Island for a unique glimpse into the local heritage and traditions.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming guesthouses to luxurious resorts, catering to all traveller preferences.
Find your hotel in Watamu
When it comes to accommodation in Watamu, you'll be spoilt for choice. This beautiful coastal town in Kilifi County, Kenya offers a wide range of hotels and resorts to suit all budgets and preferences.
- Turtle Bay Beach Club - A 3.0-star rating resort located in Watamu. It offers a variety of facilities including safari trips, all-inclusive packages, snorkeling, library, wedding services, childcare, boating, hot tub, airport transportation, and transportation services.
- Sun Palm Beach Resort - A 4.5-star rating resort situated in Watamu. It features all-inclusive packages, a casino, luxury amenities, beach access, library, diving opportunities, childcare services, concierge, fitness center, and transportation services.
- Hemingways Watamu - A 4.5-star rating hotel in Watamu known for its stunning sea views. It offers snorkeling, swimming, access to natural parks, recreational activities, beautiful gardens, beachfront location, romantic atmosphere, and organized tours.
Staying in Watamu is a great choice for your holiday. With its stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and range of activities, you'll have an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the coral reefs, or indulge in water sports, Watamu has it all. The hotels in Watamu offer excellent amenities, convenient locations, and a range of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Book your hotel in Watamu now and get ready for a memorable holiday on the Kenyan coast.
Where to stay in and around Watamu
Watamu, a stunning coastal gem in Kilifi County, Kenya, is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its sublime beaches and vibrant atmosphere, visitors can indulge in recreation, relaxation, and romantic escapades. Nearby attractions like Lamu Island offer a unique cultural experience, making it the ultimate getaway for adventure seekers. Whether you prefer unwinding by the sea or exploring the local charm, Watamu promises an unforgettable holiday.
- Malindi: Located approximately 18km from Watamu, Malindi is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors often flock here for its scenic beauty, especially during peak seasons in September and from December to January. The area is well-suited for golf enthusiasts, boasting several excellent courses. Local landmarks include beautiful beaches and picturesque lakes, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
- Watamu Marine National Park: Nestled around Watamu, this marine park is a natural gem renowned for its diverse marine life and cultural experiences. The park sees a moderate influx of tourists, particularly during August and the festive period from December to January. Visitors are drawn to activities such as snorkelling and swimming, with the surrounding area featuring stunning beaches and intriguing historical ruins. A visit here promises a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
- Kijiwetanga: A quaint village located about 11km from Watamu, Kijiwetanga offers a more laid-back atmosphere for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The village experiences moderate tourist arrivals, with peak times in August and from December to January. Visitors can explore nearby national parks and beautiful beaches, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Watamu
Watamu is a beach town located in Kilifi County, Kenya, known for its beautiful sea, snorkeling, swimming, natural parks, recreation areas, gardens, and romantic and relaxing atmosphere. It offers a wide range of tours and activities, making it an ideal destination for a cheap holiday.
- Watamu Beach: Experience the stunning white sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life through snorkeling and swimming activities.
- Ruins of Gedi: Explore the historic ruins of an ancient Swahili town, surrounded by lush gardens and captivating archaeological wonders.
- Watamu Marine National Park: Dive into the marine park's protected coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish and other marine species, offering unforgettable snorkeling and diving experiences.
- Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of the proximity to other attractions such as Mida Creek, Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, and the Gede Museum, which offer opportunities for bird watching, nature walks, and cultural exploration.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Watamu
- Expedia offers amazing deals on hotels in Watamu, Kilifi County, Kenya.
- Take advantage of the search filters on Expedia to find cheaper hotels in Watamu that suit your budget.
- Consider booking your travel during off-peak times, such as avoiding peak tourist seasons, to save on hotel rates in Watamu.
- Look for hotels that offer special packages or discounts for activities like snorkeling, swimming, and tours in Watamu.
- Check for hotel deals that include access to natural parks, recreation facilities, gardens, and romantic beachfront locations in Watamu.
- Compare prices and amenities offered by different hotels in Watamu to find the best value for your money.
- Keep an eye out for limited-time promotions and flash sales on Expedia for even more affordable hotel options in Watamu.
- Consider staying in guesthouses or bed and breakfast accommodations in Watamu for a more budget-friendly experience.
- Don't forget to read reviews and ratings of hotels in Watamu on Expedia to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Discover the flavours of Watamu
When it comes to local cuisine, Watamu offers a delightful dining experience that showcases the vibrant flavours of the region. From traditional Swahili dishes to fresh seafood, there is something to satisfy every palate. One popular restaurant in Watamu is Swahili Dishes, where you can indulge in authentic African cuisine and explore the rich culinary heritage of the area. Another must-visit is Willy Beach Restaurant, known for its delectable seafood dishes that are made with the freshest catch of the day. For a true taste of local flavours, head to Bar Radio Maria, where you can savour African dishes in a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Whether you're seeking a cultural food adventure or simply looking to enjoy a delicious meal, Watamu's restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary styles. From the aromatic spices of Swahili cuisine to the succulent seafood delicacies, each restaurant in the neighbourhood has its own unique flair. Indulge in the vibrant flavours of Africa at Swahili Dishes, treat yourself to the finest seafood at Willy Beach Restaurant, or immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bar Radio Maria while enjoying authentic African dishes. Whatever your preference, Watamu's dining scene is sure to leave you craving for more.
Best time to go to Watamu
Watamu boasts a year-around average temperature of 26.2ยฐC, peaking at 27.7ยฐC in March, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 24.4ยฐC in July, August, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 79.6mm annually, with May seeing the heaviest showers and February being the driest month.
Month![]() | Temperature (Celcius)![]() | Rainfall (mm)![]() |
| January | 27.0 | 78.2 |
| February | 27.2 | 22.1 |
| March | 27.7 | 46.2 |
| April | 27.4 | 97.0 |
| May | 26.1 | 124.5 |
| June | 25.2 | 92.7 |
| July | 24.4 | 84.1 |
| August | 24.4 | 53.3 |
| September | 25.1 | 52.6 |
| October | 26.1 | 98.3 |
| November | 26.7 | 114.6 |
| December | 26.9 | 91.9 |
The nearest major airports for your trip to Watamu
Visiting Watamu, Kenya, can be conveniently done via its major airports. Mombasa (MBA-Moi Intl.) is located 90km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa and the 4.5-star Cocoa Boutique Hotel, both offering 24-hour airport shuttles. Malindi (MYD) is only 14km from Watamu, featuring luxury options such as Ocean Beach Resort & Spa and Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa, with convenient shuttle services. Lastly, Ukunda (UKA), 117km away, has elegant accommodations like Leopard Beach Resort & Spa, providing transportation for guests. Each airport presents viable options for a seamless travel experience to Watamu.
The Watamu info point: What you need to know
Category | Details |
|---|---|
| What is Watamu known for? | Beach, Marine Life, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving |
| Most popular month? | December to March |
| Length of Stay | 3-7 days |
| Weather | Warm and tropical year-round |
| Don't miss | Watamu Marine National Park, Mida Creek, Gede Ruins, Arabuko Sokoke Forest |
| Cuisine | Fresh seafood, Swahili cuisine |
| Where to go | Watamu Beach, Watamu Village, Bio-Ken Snake Farm |
Frequently asked questions
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