Snorkelling in Watamu and Malindi marine parks: tides, trips and tips

Watamu and Malindi became marine national parks in 1968, among the first in Africa. Their reefs protect shallow lagoons full of coral and fish, and snorkelling here is easy, even for beginners, as long as you time it with the tide.

Watamu or Malindi?

• Watamu: clear water, coral islets and the popular coral gardens close to the beach. Usually the better choice.
• Malindi: reefs just south of town. The water can be cloudy in the rainy months, when the Sabaki river carries sediment into the sea.

Tides and timing

The tide on this coast rises and falls a long way twice a day. Snorkelling is best around low tide, when the water inside the reef is calm and clear and the coral is close to the surface. Boat operators plan trips around the tide table, so check times the day before.

The best months are from about December to March, when the north-east monsoon brings calm seas and good visibility. From June to September the south-east monsoon makes the sea rougher.

What you will see

• Brain, staghorn and table corals
• Parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, triggerfish and moray eels
• Sea urchins and starfish on the reef flats
• Green turtles grazing in the sea grass, if you are lucky

How to go

Most people join a boat trip from the beach at Watamu or Malindi, with snorkelling gear and a guide. Glass-bottom boats are good for children and non-swimmers. Kenya Wildlife Service charges a marine park fee, paid electronically, so check whether it is included.

Protect the reef

• Never stand on or touch the coral, and do not feed the fish.
• Use reef-friendly sun cream, or wear a rash vest or T-shirt instead.
• Do not buy shells or coral; it is illegal to take them from the marine parks.