Watamu packs a surprising range of experiences into a small stretch of coast: coral reefs, a UNESCO-linked ruined city, an ancient forest with elephants, and a heart-shaped tidal island. Here is a working list of things to do in Watamu, organised by type, so you can build a few days around what you actually enjoy.

On the water

Snorkelling and diving in Watamu Marine National Park

Established in 1968, Watamu Marine National Park is one of Africa’s oldest marine reserves, protecting coral gardens where you can see turtles, reef fish and, further out, occasional dolphins. Diving centres in town run reef dives and PADI courses for beginners through to advanced divers. A Kenya Wildlife Service permit is required to snorkel or dive within the park.

Crossing to Love Island

At low tide, you can walk across the exposed coral reef to Love Island, the largest of Watamu’s Seven Islands, known for its heart-like shape. At higher tide, boat tours cover the same short distance, often timed for sunset.

Read the full Love Island Watamu guide →

Mida Creek by kayak, paddleboard or dhow

Mida Creek’s mangrove-lined channels can be explored by kayak, paddleboard, or a traditional Swahili dhow, often timed for sunset. It is also one of the best spots on this coast for birdwatching, with a raised boardwalk through the mangroves.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing

Garoda Beach, north of the town centre, is Watamu’s main kitesurfing spot, with wide, seaweed-free sandbanks and consistent wind that has earned this stretch a reputation among Kenya’s watersports crowd.

Deep sea fishing

Watamu is also a base for big game fishing, with charters targeting tuna, marlin and sailfish in the deeper water beyond the reef.

Culture and history

Gede Ruins

A few kilometres inland, the Gede Ruins are the remains of a Swahili trading town dating back to the 12th century, set within a patch of surviving coastal forest. It is a recognised national monument and one of the best-preserved Swahili historical sites on the Kenyan coast.

Arabuko Sokoke Forest

The largest remaining stretch of coastal indigenous forest in East Africa sits just inland from Watamu, home to forest elephants, rare birds and primates. Guided walks and game drives run from the forest’s edge, particularly toward sunset.

Swahili cooking class

A hands-on way to understand the coast’s food culture, from a market visit to preparing a traditional Swahili meal alongside local cooks.

Wildlife

Bio-Ken Snake Farm

A reptile research and education centre near Watamu, offering guided tours through its collection and background on snakebite treatment research carried out on site.

Watamu Turtle Watch

A local marine conservation project focused on protecting sea turtle nesting sites along this stretch of coast. Seasonal opportunities allow visitors to learn about the work and, at certain times of year, watch rescued turtles released back into the ocean.

Day safaris from Watamu

Tsavo East, one of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, is reachable as a one or two-day trip from Watamu, known for its red-dust elephants and open savannah. Shimba Hills, a forested reserve with waterfalls and sable antelope, works well as a single-day option closer to the coast.

Off the beaten path

Hell’s Kitchen, Marafa

A dramatic sandstone canyon carved by erosion, with layered red and orange rock formations that glow at sunset, giving it the local nickname “Kenya’s Grand Canyon.” It works well as a half-day or afternoon excursion from Watamu.

Sandbank picnics

Several tour operators run boat trips to exposed sandbanks off the coast for a seafood barbecue or a simple sundowner, a low-key way to spend an afternoon on the water.

Where to sleep in between it all

Most of these experiences can be arranged directly from a beachfront hotel. Visiwa Beach Resort, on Watamu Beach Road facing Love Island, arranges Mida Creek trips, snorkelling, the Love Island sunset tour, safaris and visits to Gede Ruins and Bio-Ken Snake Farm directly from the property.

See all experiences at Visiwa →

Continue planning your trip

Best Time to Visit Watamu: weather and seasons
Best Beaches in Watamu
Where to Stay in Watamu: a guide to the best areas
Best Hotel in Watamu: comparing your options

FAQs

What is Watamu best known for?

Watamu is best known for its marine national park and coral reefs, the Gede Ruins, and Love Island, a heart-shaped tidal island just offshore.

Is Watamu good for non-beach activities?

Yes. Between the Gede Ruins, Arabuko Sokoke Forest, Bio-Ken Snake Farm and day safaris to Tsavo East, there is enough inland to fill several days beyond the beach.

Do I need a tour operator, or can I do these independently?

Some, like a walk on the main beaches or a visit to Gede Ruins, are easy independently. Others, particularly Love Island, Mida Creek boat trips and safaris, are safer and easier with a local guide who knows the tides and routes.

Plan your experiences from a beachfront base

See rooms and availability at Visiwa Beach Resort, and let the team arrange your excursions directly from the property.

Explore our rooms →

Things to Do in Watamu: Places and Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss