Watamu Marine Park

National Parks & Reserves in Kilifi

Watamu Marine National Park: Aqua-Leisure

Started in 1968, the 10 km2 Watamu Marine National Park, part of the 120 km2 Malindi National Marine Park and Reserve, is a charming underwater world of incredible colours, unveiling the best of the Western Indian Ocean. It covers the areas of Blue Lagoon, Turtle Bay and the birding haven of Mida. Further offshore, stretching northerly, Malindi Marine Park and Reserve is famed for scuba diving.

Watamu Marine National Park is not only a sanctuary for marine life but also an important economic and cultural asset for the surrounding communities. Eco-tourism activities contribute to the preservation of Kenya’s coastal biodiversity and the sustainable development of the region. The park collaborates closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism practices and conservation.

Popular activities at Watamu Marine National Park include snorkeling, skiing, glass-bottomed boats rides, kitesurfing, exploring Sudi Island and Mida Creek. Owing to the choopy, deep waters and winds, diving is preferred to snorkeling, although during low tide the latter is commendable. Dolphins sighting is always awesome. Watamu and its surrounding areas has plenty of decent rentals and resorts, like Watamu Beach Hotel, Turtle Bay Resort and Ocean Sports Watamu.

Snorkeling and diving in the neaby reef offer visitors the opportunity to observe colorful coral formations and diverse marine life, including reef fish, turtles, and occasionally dolphins. Entry fees in Kes: Citizen Adult 100, Child 100; Resident Adult 100, Child 100; Non-Resident Adult 1500, Child 1000. Watamu Marine National Park is 115 km north of Mombasa, nearby the entrance into Mida Creek.


Kenya certainly has enormous touring resources. There are no less than sixty national narks, reserves and game sanctuaries, covering approximately 11% of the land surface. Each of these diverse and stunning national parks and reserves offers unique wildlife experiences and unique, breathtaking landscapes.


Touring Kilifi County offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty, lovely beaches, cultural richness, natural wonders, and fascinating ancient ruins. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, historical sites, or vibrant cultural experiences – or a combination, Kilifi promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.

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What’s The Air Like In Kilifi?

For the greater part of the year, the climate along the coastal plain is pleasurable, though humid. Temperature ranges between 21C and 30C along the coast, and between 30C and 34C further inland.

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