Watamu on the Kenyan coast is known for its powdery white beaches and crystal clear water, but there is so much more to see and do beyond the shoreline. After living in Watamu for 4 years as a family of 3, we’ve gathered our favourite activities, local tips and family friendly suggestions to help you build the perfect itinerary.

And if you want the full insider breakdown of where to go, where to eat, what to do and the lesser known experiences you won’t find on Google, you can grab our Watamu Guide here. It has all the info from taxi contacts, best time to visit, seasons, places to stay, places to eat, family friendly activities, things to do and all of our secret favourites.

Let’s get into it shall we?

1. Explore the Mida Creek

Mida Creek is one of the most special ecosystems on the Kenyan coast. The mangroves, tidal flows and calm waters create the perfect environment for adventure.

Options include:
• dhow cruises at sunset
• snorkeling and dolphin watching
• kayaking through mangroves
• stand up paddle boarding
• wakeboarding
• bird watching

Whether you want a peaceful moment or something active and exciting, Mida Creek is a must.

2. Find the Best Sunset Spots in Watamu

Sunsets in Watamu are a postcard moment every evening. The sky turns warm shades of orange, peach and gold as the sun drops over the horizon.

Free sunset options:
• a simple beach walk
• grabbing takeaway pizza from Non Solo and enjoying it on the beach for sunset
• enjoying the view from any of the shoreline

Food and drink sunset spots we recommend:
• LichtHaus (must pre book here if you do their sunset sessions as they sell out)
• Kokomo
• Sunset Lab - great for pizzas and drinks
• Sunset Restaurant by Temple Point

Each place brings a different vibe, but they all deliver that magical coastal golden hour.

3. Add Some Culture and History to Your Itinerary

Watamu is relaxed and easygoing, but rich in culture and history.

Suggestions include:
• Gede Ruins, an ancient Swahili settlement
• a guided cycling tour around Watamu
• a guided village walk
• conversations with locals to learn the true Watamu way of life

Inside our Watamu Guide, we’ve included cultural activities and local knowledge that aren’t commonly found online.

4. Eat Locally and Support the Community

Food is a huge part of travel and the Swahili cuisine in Watamu is full of flavour.

One of our favourite spots is Swahili Cafe. The food is simple, delicious and affordable and by eating there you support a locally run business.

When visiting, we encourage you to:
• eat at local restaurants
• shop at small businesses
• buy handmade products and artisan goods

Supporting local businesses keeps Watamu authentic and thriving.

5. Watamu with Kids: Family Friendly Activities

If you’re travelling with children, Watamu is extremely family friendly.

Some favourites:
• ice cream at Non Solo
• pizza and sunset at Sunset Lab + it’s right by the beach for kids to play
• playground at Ocean Sports and also by the beach
• plenty of beach and swimming pool time (make sure you choose the right accommodation)

movies every Saturday at Temple Point - see full itinerary on their Instagram Page

When choosing a family friendly accommodation, look for places with a swimming pool as well as easy access to the sea. The kids will never run out of things to do here. You can find all of our family friendly accommodations linked in our guide.

Watamu Guide - best things to do in Watamu, Best places to stay in Watamu, insider tips.

Get Our Full Watamu Guide

Our Watamu Guide is filled with recommendations, hidden gems, practical information and carefully curated favourites from our 4 years of living here. It includes places to stay, things to do, restaurants, maps, seasonal advice, best time to avoid business closures, sea weed seasons and insider ideas you won’t find on Google. Enjoy 25 % off until the end of December.