Watamu Beach Live Webcam, Kenya
This live webcam shows Watamu Beach in Kenya, with the image updated every 20 seconds.
Watamu is a small coastal village on the Indian Ocean in Kenya’s Coastal Province, located approximately 120 km (75 miles) north of Mombasa and 15 km (9 miles) south of Malindi, nestled between lush coastal forests and the turquoise waters of the ocean. It is one of the most picturesque and popular tourist destinations in East Africa. Watamu’s coastline is famous for its pristine beaches, including Watamu Beach and Turtle Bay, which serve as nesting grounds for green, hawksbill, and olive ridley sea turtles.
The Watamu National Marine Park and Reserve, situated near the village, is part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is considered one of the region’s largest centers of marine biodiversity. The park is renowned for its extensive coral reefs, over 1,000 species of fish, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and kitesurfing. Visitors may encounter marine life such as manta rays, dolphins, and occasionally whale sharks, particularly from September to December. Watamu is also regarded as the unofficial sport-fishing capital of East Africa, attracting anglers seeking marlin, wahoo, and sailfish.
Nearby lies the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, the largest coastal forest in East Africa, home to rare bird and mammal species. Just 7 km (4 miles) from the village are the Gede Ruins, an archaeological complex of a 12th-century Swahili town, featuring palaces, mosques, and marketplaces that offer insight into the region’s medieval history. Between July and September, humpback whales migrate past Watamu, providing an incredible opportunity to observe them from the shore or by boat.
Watamu is popular for a wide range of water sports, from paddleboarding to scuba diving. Thanks to its warm climate and clean waters, active outdoor recreation is possible year-round. The climate is tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F–86°F). The best time to visit is during the dry season from July to October, or the short dry period from January to February. Access is available via Malindi Airport with direct flights from Nairobi or by road from Mombasa.
