Beaches in Watamu

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Kenya's best snorkelling, and a turtle nesting coast

Watamu sits on a protected marine national park, which is why the snorkelling is the best on the Kenyan coast and why the turtle nesting here is closely managed.

Here is the list of 10 Beaches in Watamu

1. Jacaranda Watamu Bay

Between Watamu and Malindi is Jacaranda Watamu Bay, a popular 10-kilometre beach enjoyed by locals and Italians. During low tide, natural pools, atolls, and sandbars called Sardinas emerge, providing swimming opportunities. Dotted with beach bars, including the renowned Jacaranda Beach Resort, it's a delightful coastal spot.

2. Watamu Public Beach

Situated 30km from Malindi, this public beach is a gathering place for locals and tourists. Watamu Beach is a top-rated spot for relaxing walks and sunbathing. Its coral gardens are home to over 250 fish species, offering a colourful underwater experience.

3. Garoda Beach

Garoda Beach, in the Marine National Park, is Watamu's cleanest and calmest. Known for white sandy atolls during low tide, it's a base for boat trips to excellent snorkelling spots. Committed to turtle conservation, it's a place to witness these creatures. It includes the Garoda Resort, but beach amenities are limited.

4. Mapango Beach

Mapango Beach, north of Mombasa, spans about a kilometre and is ideal for families with its calm, shallow waters. The beach's unique rock formations and cliffs make it a spot, attracting photography enthusiasts.

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Coastal Charm: A 5-Day Malindi and Watamu Getaway

Malindi(4N)

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5. Turtle Bay Beach

Turtle Bay Beach is renowned for beauty and turtle conservation. Witness turtles laying eggs and hatchlings heading to the sea. Enjoy water activities, and Turtle Dive Watamu offers diving classes and boat trips to Watamu Marine National Park. Close to top hotels like Medina Palms and Hemingways, it's an ideal choice for Watamu holidays and honeymoons.

6. Blue Lagoon

Located south of Watamu Village, Blue Lagoon is a circular haven known for its clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Its azure waters and surroundings live up to its name. The lagoon is a hotspot for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding, making it a versatile and beautiful destination along the Kenyan coast.

7. Papa Remo Beach

Known as Love Bay, Papa Remo Beach, north of Watamu, boasts beautiful views of seven islets. Named after the famous Papa Remo restaurant, a popular spot for panoramic dining, couples favour it for intimate settings and romantic sunset dinners. Don't miss the lively Papa Remo Beach Party every Saturday night, starting from 11 pm until late.

8. Short Beach

Situated at Watamu's southern end, Short Beach is a small and clean quieter option. Known for its simplicity and calm charm, visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls, collecting seashells away from crowds. During low tide, a leisurely walk from Short Beach to Garoda Beach reveals a beautiful scenery of waves, sandbars, and rocky cliffs, offering a tranquil retreat by the sea.

9. Love Islands

The Love Islands, a charming cluster off the Watamu coast, are a group of small islets known for their romantic allure. Accessible by boat, these islands are popular for snorkeling and picnics. The Love Islands provide an intimate setting, making them a favored destination for couples and those seeking a romantic getaway.

10. Watamubaia Dell'amore

Translating to "Love Bay" in Italian, Watamubaia dell'Amore is a bay that lives up to its romantic name. This secluded spot offers tranquillity and views, making it an ideal location for couples and those seeking a romantic escape. The clear waters and serene atmosphere make Watamubaia dell'Amore a quieter option within the Watamu coastline.

Watamu is the quieter alternative to the Mombasa strip. Beaches in Malindi is fifteen minutes north, and beaches in Mombasa an hour and a half south.

This post was published by Varsha Alva

Top Hotels In Watamu

FAQs on Beaches in Watamu

Why is Watamu good for snorkelling?

Because it sits inside Watamu Marine National Park, one of the oldest marine reserves in Africa. The coral gardens are close to shore and reachable by glass-bottom boat in twenty minutes, and fish numbers are high.

When is the water clearest?

October to March, and particularly the calm months around February. The long rains from April to June bring runoff that reduces visibility, and the sea gets choppier.

What about the turtles?

Watamu is a major nesting site and Local Ocean Conservation runs a rehabilitation centre here. Nesting runs roughly February to July. Do not disturb nests, and visit the centre rather than seeking turtles out.

Is Watamu better than Diani?

Different. Diani has the wider beach and more resorts; Watamu has the marine park, better snorkelling and far fewer people. Watamu suits anyone who cares more about the water than the nightlife.

How do I get there?

Fly to Malindi and drive twenty-five minutes, or fly to Mombasa and drive around ninety. The road from Mombasa is reasonable and shared shuttles run it daily.