Things to Do in Watamu
From world-class deep-sea fishing to pristine coral reefs, mangrove creeks, and incredible food — Watamu has it all.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Watamu is East Africa's premier sport fishing destination and one of the world's top billfish hotspots. The deep waters of the Watamu Bank, just a few nautical miles from shore, are home to black marlin, striped marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and dorado. The main season runs from August to March, with December and January being the peak months for marlin. Half-day and full-day charters depart from Watamu Creek and Ocean Sports. Watamu is a tag-and-release fishery — the vast majority of billfish are released alive.
Watersports
Watamu's consistent trade winds make it one of Kenya's best spots for kite surfing, particularly from June to September and December to March. The wide, shallow lagoon at low tide provides ideal learning conditions. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is popular year-round in the calm morning waters, while kayaking through the mangrove channels of Mida Creek offers a unique perspective. Jet skis, windsurfing, and wakeboarding are also available at several beach operators.
Marine Park & Snorkelling
The Watamu Marine National Park, established in 1968, is one of Kenya's oldest marine protected areas. It covers an area of coral reef, seagrass beds, and rocky outcrops teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, octopus, and moray eels. Glass-bottom boat trips and guided snorkelling excursions run daily from Watamu beach and Turtle Bay. The best visibility is between October and March. Dolphins are frequently spotted, and whale sharks visit between October and February.
Turtle Watch & Conservation
Local Ocean Conservation (formerly Watamu Turtle Watch) runs one of Kenya's most successful marine conservation programmes. Visit their centre next to Ocean Sports to learn about sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and release. You can observe recovering turtles in their pools and even sponsor a turtle's release back to the ocean. The organisation also runs a by-catch net release programme with local fishermen, which has freed thousands of trapped sea turtles. A must-visit for families.
Mida Creek
Mida Creek is a stunning tidal inlet bordered by ancient mangrove forests and home to an extraordinary diversity of birdlife, including flamingos, kingfishers, herons, and ospreys. Take a traditional dhow sailing trip through the creek at sunset — one of the most magical experiences in Watamu. Walk the elevated Mida Creek boardwalk through the mangroves, visit the local community project, or combine creek exploration with a crab safari. At low tide, the exposed sandbanks attract hundreds of wading birds.
Places to Eat
Watamu punches well above its weight for food. Ocean Sports is the social hub — enjoy wood-fired pizza, fresh fish, and cold beers right on the beach. Pilipan is an upscale Italian-owned restaurant in the village with outstanding pasta and seafood. For the best ice cream on the Kenyan coast, visit Andrea's — a Watamu institution serving homemade Italian gelato with flavours like passion fruit and coconut. Other gems include Ascot Residence for Swahili cooking, Papa Remo for beachside grills, and Crab Shack for a rustic seafood feast on the sand.
KWS Marine Park Entry Fees
Entry to Watamu Marine National Park requires a KWS fee. Non-resident adults KES 1,770 (~$13), residents KES 300. Pay online to skip the queue.
Ready to Experience Watamu?
Book your accommodation and fishing charter to make the most of everything Watamu has to offer.