About Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve

Renowned internationally for its white sandy beaches and reef-protected lagoons, Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve is a scenic coastal sanctuary offering immersive marine excursions and rejuvenating ocean experiences. The park showcases spellbinding coral gardens and abundant fish life, making it one of the country’s finest examples of a pristine marine protected area.

Home to Kenya’s celebrated Marine Big Five — sea turtles, whale sharks, dolphins, whales, and billfish — Watamu delivers unforgettable encounters both above and below the surface. Visitors can enjoy adventure and wellness experiences through snorkeling, diving, swimming, and guided boat excursions in crystal-clear waters, while vibrant reefs provide exceptional settings for visual underwater storytelling and filmmaking.

The reserve also hosts the seasonal humpback whale migration, forming the marine half of Kenya’s remarkable Twin Migration phenomenon, which coincides with the annual wildebeest migration on land. Watamu’s turquoise lagoons, thriving marine life, and cinematic underwater landscapes offer a truly immersive marine experience.

  • Marine Big Five Encounters
  • Mida Creek & Whale Island
  • Gede Ruins – historic Swahili settlement
  • Hump back Whale Migration

Privately Owned Hotels & Lodges

  • Hemingway’s Watamu
  • Turtle Bay Resort
  • Personal effect
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • First aid kit
  • Sunglasses
  • Clean drinking water
  • Appropriate beach wear
  • Camping gear

1. You are in the wildlife’s home. Please respect their privacy and right of way.

2. National parks are plastic-free. Single-use plastic is prohibited.

3. General road rules apply. Car hooting or driving under the influence of alcohol are strictly prohibited.

4. Adhere to park entry and exit times. Gates open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM, unless you are spending overnight.

5. Move slowly and quietly. Animals can react dangerously if startled.

6. Noise distracts wildlife. Use mobile phones and sound devices sparingly and only in designated areas.

7. Remain in your vehicle unless in designated areas. Keep doors closed at all times.

8. Observe the maximum speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph). Speeding attracts penalties.

9. Stay on established roads and trails. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited.

10. View wildlife from a minimum distance of 20 meters.

11. Feeding wildlife is prohibited, as it disrupts their diet and leads to human dependency.

12. Carry out all trash to help keep the park clean.

13. Do not leave campfires unattended while camping.

14. Visitors enter the park at their own risk and Terms and conditions apply.

Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve Rates

East Africa Citizen Adult

KES. 500

East Africa Citizen Child

KES. 250

Kenya Resident Adult

KES. 675

Kenya Resident Child

KES. 350

Non Resident Adult

USD 25

Non Resident Child

USD 15

Africa Citizen Adult

USD 15

Africa Citizen Child

USD 10

Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve Gallery

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