Watamu lies south of Malindi and is best known for its marine park - a spectacular coral reef alive with tropical fish - usually visited by glass bottomed boat from which snorkeling is possible. The beach is a series of wide sandy bays separated by rocky outcrops. The area is distinctive with its craggy rock islands dotting the bays. Watamu has only a few tourist hotels and many private beachfront properties.

Mida Creek nearby is a broad stretch of water lined by tidal mud flats and mangroves and is home to a multitude of birds. Daily dhow trips into the creek are available. The ancient ruins of Gede - a lost city whose population inexplicably vanished in the 14th century leaving no clues as to their fate - is one of Kenya's outstanding national monuments.