Watamu Marine National Park

Established in 1968, Watamu Marine National Park is one of the oldest marine protected areas in Africa and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Spanning 10 km² of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and crystalline waters, this is the jewel that makes Watamu more than just a beach town. Whether you snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat, the underwater world here rivals destinations ten times more famous.

What You'll See

Over 600 species of fish, 110 species of coral, and some of the healthiest reef systems in the Western Indian Ocean. Green and hawksbill sea turtles are common — you're almost guaranteed to swim alongside one. Dolphins are frequently spotted, especially in the morning. Giant groupers, moray eels, octopus, lionfish, and clouds of butterfly fish fill the coral gardens. Between September and March, whale sharks occasionally pass through the deeper waters.

How to Visit

Glass-bottom boat tours depart from Watamu Beach and offer a dry-feet option for non-swimmers — the coral is close enough to the surface to see clearly through the glass. Snorkeling trips include equipment and a guide who knows where the turtles hang out. Scuba diving through operators like Aqua Ventures gives you deeper access to walls, caves, and the outer reef. Most tours are half-day (3–4 hours).

Practical Info

KWS entry fees: KES 1,700 for non-residents ($13), KES 300 for residents, KES 100 for Kenyan children. Fees are per day and usually included in boat/dive operator prices — confirm before booking. The park is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM. Best snorkeling is at low tide when corals are closest to the surface. Best diving visibility: January–March and July–October. Bring reef-safe sunscreen — chemical sunscreens damage coral.