Why You Should Visit Watamu in the Low Season

Seven Islands Beach, Watamu, Kenya

When people think of the Kenyan coast, they often picture peak-season crowds, packed beaches, and high prices. But if you're looking for a more relaxed, authentic, and adventure-filled experience, Watamu in the low season is your hidden gem.

Why the Low Season?

The low season, typically running from May to early July, is Watamu’s best-kept secret. You’ll enjoy cooler weather, fewer tourists, and significantly lower prices on both accommodation and domestic flights. But the biggest surprise? Most of the best activities are still running, and sometimes even better without the crowds.

Here’s what you can do in Watamu during the low season:

1. E-Foiling on Mida Creek

If you haven’t tried e-foiling yet, Watamu is the perfect place to start. Glide silently above the water on a remote-controlled electric surfboard — it’s thrilling, surprisingly easy to learn, and a totally unique way to experience the beauty of Mida Creek.

2. Transparent Kayaking and other Watersports

Mida Creek’s calm, clear waters are ideal for transparent kayaking, where you can spot fish and marine life right beneath your boat. You can also paddleboard or kitesurf, the winds and conditions are often ideal this time of year.

3. Free Outdoor Movie Nights at Temple Point Hotel

Nothing beats watching a great film under the stars. Every week, Temple Point Hotel hosts free outdoor movie nights open to guests and non-guests alike. Bring a some cash, grab a cocktail or something to eat at the bar/ restaurant, and enjoy a laid-back cinema night by the pool.

4. Quad Biking (at the sand dunes or local tours)

Adventure awaits inland too! Explore the dunes just outside Malindi town on a guided quad biking tour. Ride through scenic trails, open sandy stretches, and even local villages for an off-road experience that’s as cultural as it is adrenaline-filled.

5. Sailing Through Mida Creek at Sunset

Hop aboard a traditional dhow or catamaran and sail through the tranquil waters of Mida Creek as the sun sets over the mangroves. It’s pure magic, and the low season skies can be especially dramatic.

6. Snorkelling at the Watamu Reef

The marine park is a protected area, and even in the low season, the reef is teeming with colourful fish, corals, and sometimes even turtles. Go out with a guide for the best experience and enjoy the fact that you might have the reef almost to yourself.

7. BBQ Seafood Lunch on Catapilla Island

After a morning on the water, head to Catapilla Island, a sandy island in Mida Creek that appears with the tides. Enjoy a fresh seafood BBQ lunch served right on the sand, lobster, prawns, fish, and more, all grilled to perfection.

8. Play Padel Tennis or Practice Putting

For a bit of sport, you can book a game of padel tennis or get some short-game practice in at the mini golf putting green in Watamu. These are fun, relaxed ways to stay active in between your beach days.

9. Tour the Gede Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Step back in time at the mysterious Gede Ruins, an ancient Swahili town hidden in the forest. The site dates back to the 13th century and is full of stories, from Arab trade routes to local legends all surrounded by nature and monkeys.

Bonus Tip: Enjoy Watamu Like a Local

With fewer tourists around, the town feels more relaxed and intimate. It’s the perfect time to connect with locals, visit small artisan shops, try Swahili cuisine at local eateries, or take a bike ride through the village streets.

Watamu in the low season is a peaceful paradise filled with unique experiences, adventure, and warm hospitality, all at a fraction of the peak season cost. Whether you’re into water sports, history, nature, or just relaxing by the sea, this is the perfect time to discover why Watamu is one of Kenya’s best coastal destinations.

Pack your bags, book that off-season flight, and come see it for yourself.