Snorkel Tours In Watamu Beach
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Discover Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling at Watamu
Float above coral gardens teeming with dazzling tropical marine life, ideal low-tide conditions, coral reef ecosystem, and great for all levels. Experience a guided snorkel excursion at Watamu using a glass-bottomed boat on a trip to the Coral Gardens. You will be given an introductory lecture about the Marine Park and what you are likely to see before being taken to the Gardens. The guide will point out fish and coral of interest and will answer any questions on what is being seen. The cost of the excursion includes Park entry ticket and guide fees; all equipment is supplied.
The beauty about snorkeling in Watamu include;
Its Easy Access: Perfect for all levels of beginners and seasoned ocean explorers alike.
Reef Encounters: Spot hundreds of colorful reef fish just beneath the surface.
Unique Species: Keep an eye out for turtles, grouper, or guitarfish.
The National Marine Park is managed and patrolled by Kenya Wildlife Service who ensure that all marine life within it’s boundaries is protected. This does come with a price to pay for this heritage for people who are going snorkelling and goggling. Keep in mind – the coral is quite sharp and it is easy to injure yourself. We recommend when windsurfing, sailing or walking in the sea that you protect yourself by wearing closed toe and closed heel shoes.
Best Snorkeling Spots In Watamu Beach
Watamu Marine Park: Watamu Marine National Park in Kenya is home to over 600 species of fish, including clownfish, lionfish, parrotfish, sea turtles and even whale sharks between November to February. Thanks to the area’s crystal-clear, turquoise waters, rich marine life, and gorgeous coral reefs, the coastal community of Watamu, Kenya, is perhaps one of the best places for snorkelling and diving on the African coast.
Watamu’s variety of snorkelling and diving activities are accessible to divers of all ability levels. Beginners can enjoy Watumu’s sprawling coral reefs and the marine life that call them home, while more experienced divers can explore deep wall dives and uncover shipwrecks scattered across the seafloor. Remember, you’ll need a permit to snorkel or dive in Watamu’s National Marine Park from the Kenya Wildlife Service Hut, located a stone’s throw from the Turtle Bay Beach Resort.
Other Popular Snorkeling Areas In Watamu
Turtle Reef: A shallow coral reef full of colorful fish, making it perfect for beginners and families.
Coral Gardens: Located within the marine park, these gardens showcase vibrant coral formations and diverse fish species.
The Larder: A deeper area often visited on guided snorkel tours, known for its variety of fish and occasional turtle sightings.
Mida Creek (for mangrove snorkeling): While not a coral reef environment, Mida Creek offers unique mangrove channels where snorkelers can spot juvenile fish and other fascinating marine organisms.
Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling In Watamu
This popular dolphin and snorkeling tour at Watamu. We shall cruise to the open waters in search for Dolphins. Later proceed to the Watamu Marine Park, a protected area with beautiful marine life where you can snorkel and swim with the fish under the clear waters. After snorkeling we sail through the Mida creek towards Waka Waka Island. Hot Seafood lunch will be served at the Island, followed by some entertainment by the local community, and then back to your hotel.
What Kind of Experience? Experience dolphins swimming in their natural habitat up close on a traditional dhow, swim with the fishes through the marine protected corals and paddle through the mangrove of Mida Creek.
When? Dolphins are in the area between October and March. However, you can experience turtles and whales during other times of the year and epic sunsets every single day!
How? Depending on the type of trip you want, embark the dhow early in the morning to experience the dolphins / whales etc. Or later in the afternoon for a sunset cruise.
 What’s Included Â
Transfers, guide service, lunch, snorkeling equipment, boat trip. We advise that you keep in mind the following; The minimum age for snorkeling at Kenya beaches is 2 Years Old.
*Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee that you will be able to snorkel with dolphins. These are highly intelligent and sensitive animals. You can only snorkel with dolphins if the conditions are right and the dolphins relaxed and approachable. It’s up to the dolphins if they want to approach us while we snorkel, not the other way around.
Snorkeling Tour Attractions at Watamu
Marine life you can expect to see in Watamu;
Colorful Fish
Parrotfish, Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Clownfish, Surgeonfish, Wrasses, Groupers, & Snapper Schools.
Sea Turtles
Watamu is home to three major species of marine turtles: Green Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles & Loggerhead Turtles.
Many snorkelers spot turtles gliding gracefully through the water or resting near seagrass beds.
Corals
The coral reefs of Watamu include: Brain Corals, Staghorn Corals, Mushroom Corals, and Plate Corals.
These structures support incredible biodiversity and create breathtaking underwater scenery.
Other Marine Species at Watamu Beach include: Dolphins (Often Seen During Boat Rides), Starfish, Sea Urchins, Octopuses, Moray Eels, Rays, and Reef Crabs.
When Is The Best Time To Snorkel In Watamu Beach
Snorkeling is generally not so good during the period May to September due to strong winds and seaweeds on the beach and inside the reef. Snorkel at low tide, especially during spring low tides.
Best Snorkel Seasons: December to March – Characterised by Calm Seas, Excellent Visibility, Sunny Weather & Warm Water.
Dolphin Safari & Snorkeling In Watamu Beach, Itinerary
Sail-Off On a Traditional Dhow
You will meet a crew member by the KWS offices where you’ll purchase your marine park ticket. You’ll then walk over to the dhow, dependent on tides a small boat will pick you up to take you to the dhow. Take a moment to be mesmerized with the elegant dhow then make yourself comfortable for a fantastic day trip. First up is a dolphin safari, as you sail the blue waters of Watamu. (With a bit of luck) spot the dolpins and spend some time with them, watching them gracefully swim through the waters in pods.
Snorkelling Time
Once you’ve enjoyed the dolphins you can ask the crew to take you for some snorkelling time. You’ll head over to the marine park and dock the dhow, here you’ll be given some snacks while you’re free to jump into the clear waters and be surrounded by an array of fish. Take some time to bask under the sun on the comfortable cushions at the front of the dhow. If the tide is right, we’ll visit a sand bank – a section of sand in the middle of the ocean!
Lunch
Feeling peckish? Let the crew know. You’ll then head towards the quiet waters of Mida Creek, taking in a whole new landscape of greenery, calm waters and birds. You can choose whether to have the freshly cooked lunch on the dhow or at a nearby island. The food is cooked fresh by the Chef and is honestly some of the most delicious food you’ll ever have tasted!
Watamu Snorkel Safety Tips
Despite the fact that Watamu is generally safe, following simple guidelines ensures a smooth experience:
-Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
-Avoid touching corals—they are delicate and can be damaged easily.
-Keep a safe distance from marine animals.
-Wear water shoes during low tide to avoid stepping on sharp coral or sea urchins.
-Follow your guide’s instructions and respect designated zones.
-Stay hydrated and avoid snorkeling alone.
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