Fauneya

North of Mombasa on Kenya's Coral Coast, Watamu Marine National Park combines fringing reef snorkel and dive sites with green turtle nesting beaches monitored by Local Ocean Conservation. Shallow coral gardens inside the park deliver reliable hawksbill and green turtle encounters year-round, while regulated night walks on nearby beaches follow nesting females between March and July. The village sits about 120 km north of Mombasa and pairs easily with Malindi airport connections.

Sea Turtle in Watamu Marine National Park (Kenya)

day tripMediumSnorkelingDivingWatching

About This Spot

North of Mombasa on Kenya's Coral Coast, Watamu Marine National Park combines fringing reef snorkel and dive sites with green turtle nesting beaches monitored by Local Ocean Conservation. Shallow coral gardens inside the park deliver reliable hawksbill and green turtle encounters year-round, while regulated night walks on nearby beaches follow nesting females between March and July. The village sits about 120 km north of Mombasa and pairs easily with Malindi airport connections.

Best Months to Visit

Up to 93% sighting chance in Watamu Marine National Park (Kenya). Best months: April, May, June.

  • April: 93%
  • May: 93%
  • June: 93%
  • March: 88%
  • July: 88%
  • August: 78%
  • January: 72%
  • February: 72%
  • September: 72%
  • October: 68%
  • December: 68%
  • November: 65%

Practical Information

  • Location: Watamu Marine National Park (Kenya)
  • Coordinates: -3.3500, 40.0200
  • Effort: day trip
  • Accessibility: Medium
  • Observation mode: Snorkeling, Diving, Watching

Frequently Asked Questions

When is green turtle nesting season at Watamu?

March through July is the main nesting window, with reef snorkel and dive turtle sightings strong year-round and up to 93% probability in peak summer months.

Can I join turtle nesting walks at Watamu?

Yes through Local Ocean Conservation and licensed operators on regulated night walks. Independent beach access at night is restricted during nesting season.

How much do Watamu snorkel and dive trips cost?

Two-tank reef dives inside the marine park typically run 8,000 to 14,000 KES per person (2026 prices). Snorkel boat trips cost roughly 4,500 to 8,000 KES including park fees.

How do I reach Watamu from Mombasa?

Watamu lies about 120 km north of Mombasa via the B8 coastal highway, roughly two hours by car. Malindi Airport sits 25 km north with domestic connections from Nairobi.

Which turtle species appear at Watamu?

Green turtles dominate both reef encounters and nesting beaches. Hawksbills are common on coral gardens, and olive ridleys occasionally nest on nearby beaches.

Other Spots for Sea Turtle