Watamu, Kenya· Kenya Coast
Nearest park
Watamu Marine National Park
Rating
4.6 (712)
From
$400/ night
Hemingways Watamu occupies a privileged stretch of pristine white sand beach on Kenya's south coast, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and the protected coral reefs of Watamu Marine National Park. This elegant resort, part of the Hemingways Collection, has earned a reputation as one of East Africa's finest beach destinations, seamlessly combining coastal luxury with the warmth and character of Swahili hospitality. The resort's 74 rooms and suites are arranged in low-rise blocks cascading toward the ocean, each designed in a contemporary coastal style with whitewashed walls, Lamu-inspired carved wooden details, handwoven sisal rugs, and private balconies or terraces with ocean or garden views. Premium suites feature outdoor rain showers, plunge pools, and direct beach access. The Hemingways aesthetic is understated elegance — nothing flashy, everything considered. The resort's dining scene revolves around the ocean. The Seafood Restaurant showcases the day's catch from local fishermen, prepared simply to highlight the freshness of the ingredients — grilled lobster, Swahili octopus curry, and ceviche of reef fish. The Palm Terrace offers all-day dining with an international menu, while the Pool Bar serves cocktails and light bites against the soundtrack of gently breaking waves. Beyond the beach, Hemingways is a gateway to some of Kenya's finest marine adventures. Watamu Marine National Park is a snorkeling and diving paradise, with coral gardens, sea turtles, whale sharks (seasonal), and over 600 species of reef fish. The resort operates its own PADI dive centre and deep-sea fishing fleet — Hemingways is, after all, named in honor of the sport-fishing legend. Day trips to the atmospheric ruins of Gede, a 13th-century Swahili town, and the mangrove-lined creeks of Mida Creek add cultural depth to a beach stay.
Pristine Watamu beach frontage
Watamu Marine National Park access
PADI dive centre on-site
Deep-sea sport fishing
Whale shark encounters (seasonal)
Swahili-inspired architecture
Gede ruins excursions
Mida Creek mangrove trips
WiFi
Swimming pool
Spa
Three restaurants
Two bars
PADI dive centre
Fitness center
Laundry service
Airport transfers
Kids club
Water sports centre
Gift shop
The Seafood Restaurant features freshly caught fish and Swahili-inspired dishes with ocean views. Palm Terrace serves international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Pool Bar offers cocktails, fresh juices, and light snacks. Private beach dinners and romantic setups can be arranged.
Activities include snorkeling and scuba diving in the marine park, deep-sea sport fishing, glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking through Mida Creek mangroves, visits to Gede ruins, Arabuko-Sokoke Forest nature walks, kite surfing, paddleboarding, sunset dhow cruises, and spa treatments.
Watamu Marine National Park protects vibrant coral reefs with over 600 fish species, sea turtles (green, hawksbill, and olive ridley), dolphins, and seasonal whale sharks. The nearby Arabuko-Sokoke Forest is home to rare endemic species including the Sokoke scops owl, golden-rumbed elephant shrew, and Aders' duiker.
The best beach weather is from October to March, with warm temperatures and calm seas. Whale shark season runs from October to February. August to October offers excellent deep-sea fishing. The long rains in April and May bring lower rates and a lush coastal landscape.
