For my 30th birthday, we went on a trip to Zanzibar and Kenya. After spending one week in Zanzibar, we flew from Stone Town to Mombasa and transferred to Watamu. In this article, we will talk about our trip to Kenya and the best things to do in Watamu.
Our African Safari
Our Kenya trip’s highlight was undoubtedly the safari tour in Tsavo East and Amboseli National Parks—two of Africa’s most visited. Tsavo East, Kenya’s oldest and largest park, mesmerized us with its vast red-dust landscapes. Amboseli, on the other hand, showcased diverse habitats like savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. Exploring these iconic parks was one of the best things to do in Watamu and an unforgettable adventure.
Where is Watamu Located
Watamu, a peaceful coastal town 100 kilometers north of Mombasa, boasts a stunning 7-kilometer white sandy beach lined with coconut palms. As one of Kenya’s most popular destinations, it draws tourists from around the world, creating numerous job opportunities for locals and attracting new residents. The heart of Watamu is its bustling main street—a hub of activity and tourism. Here, street artists showcase vibrant paintings and handcrafted souvenirs, while food stalls serve up the best local street fare. Adding to the charm is the lively buzz of tuk-tuks zipping through town.
Where to Stay in Watamu
Though small, Watamu offers plenty to explore and enjoy. Beyond day tours, you can unwind on its free, pristine beaches or indulge in delicious seafood at local restaurants. With accommodations for every budget, most hotels provide all the comforts you could want. We stayed at Eco Villas Watamu, conveniently located on the main street, and loved it. This charming spot features cozy rooms and bungalows set in beautifully landscaped plantation-style surroundings. Their restaurant is a local favorite, known for its tasty dishes and vibrant evening crowd.
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The Best Things to Do in Watamu, Kenya
Love Island
Just off Watamu Beach lie several small islands, with the most stunning and popular being Love Island—a heart-shaped strip of bright white sand that emerges at low tide. This magical spot offers close encounters with marine life, including puffers, starfish, crabs, corals, octopuses, and oysters. At low tide, you can walk to Love Island; during high tide, local fishermen are happy to give you a lift for a small fee.
Note: local peddlers will try and sell you Love Island as a day or half-day tour. There is no need to pay for an organized tour. As we said, the island is close to the beach, and with low tides, you can simply enjoy a small walk by yourself.
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Mida Creek
Mida Creek, a stunning reserve of mangroves and palms, is a tidal ecosystem teeming with birds and marine life. A typical Mida Creek tour includes a walk along the suspended boardwalk, offering breathtaking views of the creek. The Mida Creek Conservation Community manages a crab farm and the beloved Crab Shack Restaurant, where you’ll be warmly welcomed. Take your time to relax, soak in the scenery, and savor the famous crab samosas as the sun sets—one of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve ever experienced. For a different perspective, you can also explore Mida Creek by boat.
Watamu Marine National Park
Among the best things to do in Watamu, a visit to the Marine National Park is a must. This protected biosphere reserve teems with vibrant corals, a variety of fish, and sea turtles.
The park has an entry fee, often included in tour packages. We opted for the Sea Safari to Watamu Marine Park and couldn’t have been happier. Our adventure began with a morning glass-bottom boat ride in Mayungu’s crystal-clear waters, revealing stunning corals and schools of fish gliding over white sandy stretches, thanks to the low tide.
Next, we snorkeled in the marine park, surrounded by countless colorful fish. Our final stop was Jacaranda Bay, nicknamed “Sardegna 2” for its striking resemblance to Sardinia’s azure waters. Here, the shallow sea barely reached our knees. We enjoyed a seafood BBQ feast of lobster, shrimp, barracuda, and swordfish, followed by a leisurely afternoon of sunbathing and snorkeling. The water was incredibly clear, with sea urchins, fish, and starfish scattered everywhere. It was a perfect day, and we highly recommend this tour.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm
The Bio-Ken Snake Farm, the largest in East Africa, serves as both a snake zoo and a research center focused on reptiles, particularly snakes and snakebites. It plays a vital role in producing life-saving anti-venom and educating the community about reptiles and their importance.
Arabuko Sokoke National Park
Arabuko Sokoke, a protected coastal forest spanning Watamu and Malindi, is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic mammals, birds, and plants, some of which face extinction. Many tours combine guided visits to this national park and the adjacent Mida Creek, offering a rich experience of the area’s natural beauty. Though we didn’t have time to explore the park, it’s undoubtedly a unique destination that deserves a visit.
Gede Ruins
The ruins of Gede, located just a 10-minute drive from Watamu in the Kilifi district, are a fascinating archaeological site. Once a thriving 12th-century Swahili trading settlement, the ruins are remarkably well-preserved and surrounded by a lush forest of baobab and tamarind trees. While we didn’t get the chance to visit, we’ve heard they’re well worth exploring.
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