Turtle Bay – Kenya’s Tropical Marine Paradise in Watamu

Along the pristine shoreline of Watamu on Kenya’s north coast lies one of the most breathtaking beaches and marine sanctuaries in East Africa — Turtle Bay. With its bright turquoise waters, white powdery sand, swaying coconut palms, and a protected marine ecosystem teeming with life, Turtle Bay is a dream destination for swimmers, snorkelers, divers, birdwatchers, and beach lovers.

Located within the famous Watamu Marine National Park, Turtle Bay stands out as one of the most unspoiled coastal treasures in Kenya. It offers a perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, conservation, and natural beauty — all in one magnificent stretch of coastline.

Snorkeler with blue flippers swims beside a sea turtle over colorful coral and fish in clear, sunlit ocean water.

Where Is Turtle Bay Located?

Turtle Bay sits in Watamu, Kilifi County, along Kenya’s northern coast. It is found inside the Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve, which is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

Distances:

• 25 km south of Malindi

• 110 km north of Mombasa

• 20 minutes from Malindi Airport

This makes Turtle Bay easily accessible while still feeling quiet, calm, and naturally preserved.

A Beach Straight Out of a Tropical Postcard

Turtle Bay is famous for its fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise ocean that remain beautifully clean due to the protected marine park zone. Palm trees line the shore, gentle waves roll in, and the light sea breeze keeps the temperature comfortable throughout the day.

What makes the shoreline unique:

• Sand that feels soft like flour

• Calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming

• Clear visibility for snorkeling

• Beautiful shades of blue and green

• Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere

It is one of the most picturesque beaches in Kenya.

Why Is It Called Turtle Bay?

Turtle Bay gets its name from the sea turtles that live, feed, and nest in this part of the Indian Ocean. The Marine Park is home to several species:

• Hawksbill turtle

• Green turtle

• Olive ridley turtle

Conservation organizations in the area, including Local Ocean Conservation (LOC), protect nesting sites, rescue injured turtles, and run educational programs.

Visitors may even witness:

• Turtle hatchlings making their way to the sea

• Turtles grazing on sea grass beds

• Turtles gliding through coral reefs during snorkeling trips

Inside Watamu Marine National Park – A Living Coral Paradise

Turtle Bay lies inside one of Africa’s oldest marine parks, declared in 1968.

The protected area hosts:

• 150+ species of hard and soft coral

• 600+ species of tropical fish

• Dolphins (spinner & bottlenose)

• Octopus

• Rays

• Reef sharks (harmless)

• Colorful reef ecosystems

The water visibility is high (up to 30 meters on good days), making Turtle Bay a world-class marine viewing location.

Dolphins swimming in clear blue ocean above colorful coral reef, illuminated by sunlight filtering through the water. Calm and vibrant scene.

Top Activities at Turtle Bay

1. Snorkeling

This is the most popular activity. Snorkeling in Turtle Bay reveals:

• Bright coral gardens

• Butterflyfish, lionfish, parrotfish

• Clownfish and anemones

• Grazing turtles

Whether from the shore or a glass-bottom boat, the experience is stunning.

2. Scuba Diving

For divers, Watamu Marine Park has some of the best dive sites in Kenya.

Expect underwater adventures with:

• Coral walls

• Lava ledges

• Massive schools of fish

• Rare macro creatures

Dive centers in Watamu offer lessons, equipment, and guided diving trips.

3. Dolphin Watching

Boat excursions often lead visitors to pods of spinner dolphins, known for their acrobatic spins, and bottlenose dolphins gliding through blue waters.

The best seasons range from November to April.

4. Deep-Sea Fishing

Watamu is part of the “Billfish Capital of the World.”

Fishing lovers can catch:

• Marlin

• Sailfish

• Tuna

• Dorado

• Wahoo

Fishing is strictly sport-based and “catch-and-release.”

5. Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

The lagoon area offers calm water perfect for paddling activities while enjoying views of:

• Coral reefs

• Mangrove channels

• Marine life swimming below

6. Beach Relaxation & Walks

Turtle Bay’s quiet coastline offers:

• Peaceful sunrise strolls

• Shaded palm areas

• Hammocks with ocean views

• Perfect swimming conditions

This is ideal for travelers seeking peaceful downtime.

7. Visits to Mida Creek

Just behind Turtle Bay lies Mida Creek, one of Kenya’s most important mangrove ecosystems and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Here, visitors can enjoy:

• Mangrove boardwalks

• Birdwatching (flamingos, kingfishers, herons)

• Sunset dhow cruises

• Paddleboarding through mangrove channels

Where to Stay

The area around Turtle Bay has a range of accommodations:

Beachfront Resorts

• Turtle Bay Beach Club (family-friendly, all-inclusive)

• Hemingways Watamu (luxury boutique)

• Ocean Sports Resort (relaxed, oceanfront)

Eco-Lodges

• Temple Point Resort

• Mida Creek Eco Camp

• Watamu Treehouse

Budget Options

• Hostels

• Cottages

• Guesthouses

Most are within walking distance of the beach and marine activities.

Where to Eat

Watamu offers excellent dining experiences inspired by Swahili, Italian, and coastal flavors.

Top recommendations:

• Hemingways Restaurant – fresh seafood, fine dining

• Turtle Bay Beach Club Restaurants – beachfront buffets

• Papa Remo Beach Restaurant – pizza & ocean views

• Sunset Restaurant at Mida Creek – magical sunset scenes

Best Time to Visit Turtle Bay

Turtle Bay is warm and sunny all year, but the best seasons are:

December → March

• Hot, clear, perfect for snorkeling

• Dolphin sightings increase

July → October

• Cooler, calm seas

• Excellent water visibility

Avoid the long rains (April–May) if you want ideal beach weather.

How to Get There

By Air

• Fly to Malindi Airport (20–25 minutes to Watamu)

• Or fly to Mombasa’s Moi International Airport and drive 2 hours north

By Road

• A scenic coastal drive from Mombasa to Watamu

• Good tarmac roads throughout

Transport within Watamu is easy via tuk-tuks, taxis, or hotel transfers.

Why Visit Turtle Bay?

Turtle Bay is a magical blend of:

• Unspoiled beaches

• Protected marine life

• Thrilling water activities

• Warm tropical atmosphere

• Conservation experiences

• Beautiful sunrise and sunset views

Whether you want to discover marine life, relax under palm trees, swim in warm turquoise water, or experience Kenya’s coastal wonders, Turtle Bay is one of the most rewarding destinations you can visit.

Perfect for couples, families, backpackers, photographers, divers, and anyone looking for a peaceful slice of paradise.