Where to stay in Watamu Marine National Park
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Overview
Watamu Marine National Park covers about 10 km² of sea and reef off Watamu, south of Malindi on Kenya’s north coast. It was gazetted in 1968 and is a no-fishing zone.
In 1979, Watamu and nearby Malindi were named a UNESCO biosphere reserve together.
The park protects coral gardens, a lagoon and beaches where sea turtles nest. Visitors come for glass-bottom boat trips, snorkelling and diving.
Wildlife & Biodiversity
Turtles
Green turtles nest on the beaches, with occasional hawksbill and olive ridley nests.
Marine life
The coral gardens support many reef fish, rays and octopus.
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: October to March, when the sea is calmest and clearest.
| Months | Season | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Oct – Mar | Calm season | Clear, calm water. The best snorkelling and diving. |
| Apr – Jun | Long rains | Rain and rougher seas. Visibility drops. |
| Jul – Sep | South-east monsoon | Windy, with choppier water. |
Snorkel at low tide, when the coral gardens are shallowest. Go with a licensed boat operator.
Getting There
By air
| Airport | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Malindi (MYD) | Domestic flights | About 30 minutes by road. |
| Moi International (MBA), Mombasa | Coastal arrivals | About 2 hours by road. |
By road
Boats leave from the beaches and the park office in Watamu.
Entrance & Fees
Kenya Wildlife Service charges a daily conservation fee per person, paid electronically through eCitizen. Watamu is one of KWS's marine protected areas.
| Visitor | Adult | Child / student |
|---|---|---|
| Non-resident | US$25 | US$15 |
| African citizen | US$15 | US$10 |
| Kenyan resident | KSh 675 | KSh 350 |
| East African citizen | KSh 500 | KSh 250 |
Boat hire is extra. Confirm the current rates on the KWS website before you go.
Fees last checked October 2026 against the KWS conservation fees schedule (October 2025).