Watamu, on Kenya's south coast, is a beach town known for its white sands, coral reefs, and the Watamu Marine National Park. The beach hotels here range from all-inclusive resorts like Turtle Bay Beach Club to boutique lodges like The Charming Lonno Lodge Watamu, each offering direct beach access, swimming pools, and amenities such as airport shuttles and private beach areas. Budgets vary: you can find guesthouses like Watamu Beach Cottages with rates around $50 per night, while luxury properties like Hemingways Watamu and Medina Palms may exceed $200 per night. For a central location close to restaurants and shops, stay near Watamu Beach Town; for more seclusion, choose properties along the northern stretch of the beach.
Top-rated hotels in Watamu include Ocean Sports Resort (superb, 91) with two pools and family rooms, and Watamu Beach Cottages (superb, 91) offering a saltwater pool and yoga classes. Hemingways Watamu (fabulous, 88) features three swimming pools, a spa, and views of the ocean. Temple Point Resort (very good, 84) overlooks a coral reef and has a private beach. For diving enthusiasts, Lily Palm Resort offers a certified diving center with trips to the reef. When booking, check whether the hotel provides free parking or airport shuttle service (many charge a surcharge from Malindi or Mombasa airports). Also note that some resorts, like Crystal Bay Resort, are not directly on the beach but offer free WiFi and family rooms. Book now to secure the best rates, especially during the high season from December to March.