Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve, run by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), protects the coral reefs and seagrass beds off the village, south of Malindi. It is one of the best snorkelling sites in Kenya: reef fish, green turtles, hard corals and, depending on the season, large schools of fish. Trips go by glass-bottom boat, with a stop on a sandbank that appears at low tide. The details below were noted in October 2026; check them before booking.
Highlights
The reef and snorkelling
The fringing reef is a few hundred metres from the shore, so you can snorkel over shallow coral gardens. The water is clearest at high tide and in calm seas; the boat is included in most offers.
The sea turtles
The bay is home to green turtles, and the nearby Local Ocean Trust (Watamu Turtle Watch) treats turtles that are injured or caught in nets before releasing them. A visit to the centre is an easy complement to the boat trip.
The sandbank at low tide
On the way back from the reef, boats often stop on a long white sandbank uncovered by the tide, where you can walk, swim and look for starfish and shells. It disappears at high tide, so pick your departure time according to the tide.
Practical info
Tips
- The KWS entry fee for non-residents was USD 25 per adult and USD 15 per child per 24 hours under the schedule published in October 2025, or KES 675 for a resident adult; it is paid through the eCitizen platform or, according to some sources, at the gate. The boat price comes on top, often per person or per boat: agree it before boarding and check whether it includes the entry fee. Avoid any operator who encourages touching coral or feeding fish. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a UV shirt and water. For the village, see Watamu.
How to get there
Boats leave from Watamu's beaches, notably Watamu Beach, Blue Lagoon or Turtle Bay, and reach the park in 10 to 20 minutes. The village is about 30 minutes by road from Malindi airport and 2 to 2.5 hours from Mombasa. Book through your accommodation or an approved local operator.
Opening hours
Nearby
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