Top 12 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Watamu, Kenya - Updated 2024

Juliet
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 5 min read

Step into Watamu, Kenya, and you’ll be greeted by pure, unspoiled white beaches, and eco-friendly hotels. Indeed, this place is touted as a hotspot for eco-tourism, and it is clear to see why. There is the Malindi Marine Reserve Park for snorkeling and Turtle Beach, which is perfect for swimming and tanning. You can also visit the local ethnic shopping stalls, also called Dukas, where you can buy supplies. Another place to visit is Gede Rides, a 12th-century Swahili village, as well as the butterfly park, Kipepep Butterfly Project. If you are looking for an environment far away from urbanization and yet still with the hallmarks of civilization, then this place is a perfect spot to visit. Start by booking one of our selected Airbnb vacation rentals in Watamu, Kenya.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 23, 2024.

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1. Villa with a saltwater pool (from USD 283)

Escape to this gorgeous villa, a luxurious retreat that promises an unforgettable vacation experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as the house is surrounded by lush greenery that provides a sense of tranquility and relaxation. The villa features a private outdoor pool, inviting you to indulge in refreshing swims and soak up the sun in complete privacy. For those who need to attend to work commitments and meetings, a dedicated workspace and Wi-Fi are available.

Moreover, a lovely beach is just steps away from the property, making it a sunseekers’ paradise.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kilifi County, Kenya
268 meters (0.2 ft) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
118 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire villa 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
federica the host was very responsive and friendly
the staff was so nice and accomodating
federica is a thoughtful and gracious host
federica was a lovely host who accommodated our needs and was very easy to reach
the staff is fantastic and federica is very welcoming and responsive
Location:
the location is very good close to the beach
the location is absolutely perfect
just a short walk to a serene and beautiful beach
the place is very beautiful located in a very quite and private estate
great place will definitely come back
Cleanliness:
they have all been beautiful clean and perfect
the house is beautiful super clean and the surroundings are very quiet
the house was spotless and very comfortable
lovely pool and clean comfortable bedrooms
clean calm and safe home
Amenities & Room:
ammenities like wifi and ac worked great
beautiful and paradisiacal place good wifi attentive staff and very clean
the bed is comfortable bathroom and living areas were excellent
nice pool area where family could dine relax and have fun
Read more reviews

2. Blue Bay Cove (from USD 80)

Looking forward to a nice, long soak in a hot tub upon your arrival in Watamu? Then pick this serviced apartment which features a hot tub. It sleeps four guests comfortably, and the beds are draped in mosquitos nets for ultimate insect prevention comfort. There are spacious verandas that provide you with panoramic ocean views. There is a kitchen, air conditioning, TV and access to a shared pool. Free parking is also available, but you can opt for shuttle services, and the staff can help to organise activities such as bird-watching, fishing, golf and snorkelling. Watamu Marine National Park is less than 10 km (6 miles) away. Three airports serve the location, with Malindi Airport just 25 minutes away, Vipingo Airport 1hr 30 minutes away, Mombasa 2hrs 50 minutes away.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kenya
6.4 km (4.0 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
140 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff very helpful
house manager was also very welcoming and helpful
staff were very friendly and available
the whole staff was very kind and friendly
graham is a very efficient host and we will definitely return to blue bay
Location:
the location is perfect
great location and lovely spacious apartment
a very lovely place with close to the beach
graham's place is in a terrific location close to the beaches and restaurants of downtown watamu
spacious and stylish apartment with a beautiful beachfront location
Cleanliness:
quiet clean and safe
the apartment is clean and the beds are comfortable
the apartments are very spacious and clean
great stay at a clean apartment with everything you need for both short or long trips
the place was lovely super clean and everything was in place for our arrival
Amenities & Room:
we arrived to be informed that wifi was available and it worked extremely well
aircon and fans in the bedrooms and the breeze right from the ocean was nice during hotter days
the kids adored the pool and the view of the ocean from the rocks is breathtaking
the beds are large and very comfortable the lounge well appointed in the kitchen had everything one would need
Read more reviews

3. Seaside accommodation in Watamu

If you have a huge group travelling with you, then pick this lovely Airbnb in Watamu near the beaches. It sleeps seven guests in three bedrooms and five beds. This resort has amenities such as a kitchen, Wi-Fi, dryer, air conditioning and free parking on the premises. Guests can access the pool and tennis court as well. The village has supermarkets, souvenir shops, banks and clinics, as well as several restaurants. You’d be pleased to know, many guests have praised the great location of this home.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kilifi County, Kenya
5.86 km (3.7 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
128 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 4 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Host:
excellent service provided by the staff who went out of their way to make us feel comfortable
elena and alex are great hosts
elena was a great host and responded quickly to all requests and itinerary changes
househelpers were efficient and helpful and rennes did a great job cooking as well
also the staff is very helpful i can recommend this place
Location:
excellent location walking distance from the beach
very close to a super market which was convenient
fantastic place to stay close to everything highly recommend
a great place to get away and relax
close to everything and with a lovely beach
Cleanliness:
everything is clean and neat
the place was beautiful- so clean and so well designed
the rooms are specious and clean
clean and nice furniture
the housekeeper also kept everything extremely clean
Amenities & Room:
the foam mattresses are fine and ac in each room helps with coastal heat
the premises are pristine and the rooms comfortable
the third bedroom upstairs gets quite hot and humid and the a/c isn’t sufficient to cool things down
great pools and beach access we'll be back
apartment is in a private estate with 2 beautiful pools
Read more reviews

4. Serene House in Watamu (from USD 98)

Hoping to stay in a cheap accommodation in Watamu? Check out Serene House, a compound of villas, all with an en-suite kitchen. You can choose from a large three-bedroom villa or two one-bedroom villas depending on your group size. The villas are furnished with hairdryer, washer, and of course, access to the shared pool. The compound is within walking distance to the beach.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kilifi County, Kenya
7.77 km (4.9 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
48 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire villa 4 Beds 7 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 7

Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff is friendly
staff on site to help with any requests
maitha and the staff were very helpful
the staff were helpful and friendly
the whole staff were very accommodating and friendly
Location:
great location and facilities
perfect location for a family or friends
serene house is a pretty house in a lovely location
we also enjoyed the beach - 10 min walking distance - a lot
a lovely place to spend a few days relaxing
Cleanliness:
the place is great quiet clean and very beautiful
the house was clean and relaxing perfect vacation environment
Amenities & Room:
the house is well furnished and comfortable with all the necessary amenities
lots of open space and comfortable couches
large kitchen large porch with lots of space to relax
it is big and comfortable with luxury beds and lots of space
the swimming pool was the highlight of our stay
Read more reviews

5. Blue Bay Cove apartment (from USD 79)

This affordable Airbnb in Watamu fits four guests. Many guests have praised it for its cleanliness. A luxurious holiday home, it offers stunning views of the ocean and features Wi-Fi, a kitchen, and air conditioning. Additionally, there is daily housekeeping, and for those with children, a child-minding and laundry service. You also get access to the beach from the house.

The staff can help organise activities such as bird-watching, fishing, golf and snorkelling. Watamu Marine National Park is less than 10 km (6 miles) away. For those who love exploring nature and history, the town of Kilifi is just 64.37 kilometres (40.00 miles) away, offering a platter of things to do outside of Watamu.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kenya
6.05 km (3.8 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
151 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire serviced apartment 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff is very friendly though
florence is very responsive and helpful as were the resort staff
florence was an amazing host she was always available even when we requested to check in earlier than expected
the staff were friendly and always on hand to assist
the staff were equally great and very helpful when we needed them
Location:
the location is amongst the best in watamu
the location is ideal and by the beach and close to amenities
great location for walking on the front
centrally located but tucked away with the peace and quiet you would desire
great place great value great location
Cleanliness:
the apartment is very clean and tastefully furnished
the house was clean and very spacious for four people
the space is very clean and beautiful with easy and close access to the ocean
the pool and house was cleaned daily i would highly recommend the venue
Amenities & Room:
the view was amazing there was wifi and ac in the rooms
the air conditioning and smart tv really came in handy with the kids
the views from the apartment are outstanding
the house is beautiful comfortable and the airco is very nice
wifi is also very stable - which is a very big plus for working professionals
Read more reviews

6. Ajabu Nyumba Villa with pool - 300 meters from the sea

This spacious villa in Watamu fits seven guests. It is near Watamu and just a couple of minutes away from the beach. Shops, restaurants, and markets are within walking distance. If you need to request for a cook, the service is available at no charge. There are amenities like a kitchen, hair dryer, high chair for children, access to a pool, and free parking on the premises.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kilifi County, Kenya
6.42 km (4.0 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
65 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 5 Beds 7 Guests 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 7

Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff were amazing as well
lovely place friendly service and a great pool
friendly hosts and amazing house and swimming pool
great staff (omari and team)
on-site help omar and franklin absolutely professional and friendly with all requests and questions on
Location:
the location is also great
great location and a wonderful house
this place is literally amazing
all in all a fantastic place to spend your holiday
it's a great location stunning home and friendly team looking after you
Cleanliness:
very clean nice and relaxing
the house was sparkling clean and well maintained
the house was kept spotlessly clean throughout our stay
the swimming pool is huge and clean
a fantastic outdoor area with a large and clean pool for kids and adults
Amenities & Room:
great rooms to sleep in and the upstaits is just a supercozy lounch to hang out in
a great place for families amazingly big swimming pool
i loved having breakfast by the patio as i watched my kids swim
great living room space
the house is comfortable walking distance from the beaches (3 different lagoons with the finest sand imaginable
Read more reviews

7. Studio near the beach (from USD 80)

Experience the comfort offered at Watamu Sandbar Beach Studio, a cozy haven offering captivating views. Nestled right on the beachfront, the rental unit provides its guests direct access to the beach along with the soothing sound of the waves.

Enjoy culinary convenience with a fully equipped kitchen and stay connected to the world with Wi-Fi. Enhance your productivity with a dedicated workspace and savor the comfort of free parking on the premises. If you are looking to unwind, the shared outdoor pool provides relaxation at its finest.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kenya
787 meters (0.5 ft) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
129 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
lovely place lovely hosts
the staff were nice too
the staff is very friendly
all the staff are uber kind
the hosts are very gracious and kind
Location:
lovely serene location and a beautiful house
excellent studio and beautiful location
the studio is in a perfect location if you love the beach
damian is always close by and checking in with you whenever you meet to ensure you are okay
fantastic location that’s easy to get to and steps from a beautiful beach
Cleanliness:
the apartment is lovely clean and spacious
the room was sparkling clean the interior design lovely and the kitchenette well equipped
an absolute gem it's gorgeous clean right on the beach and really homely
Amenities & Room:
all amenities like internet and ac worked well and the apartment was immaculately clean
the studio is very spacious and comfortable with a lovely courtyard and pool
there is enough shade around the pool area during the day which makes it perfect to cool off
Read more reviews

8. Dabaso Cottage

This lovely cottage known as Dabaso Cottage has two storeys and a veranda, perfect for climbing up to view the beautiful garden. The area is also surrounded by a lush forest, which you can walk through. It accommodates nine guests, and the cottage is situated beneath a limestone outcrop, which makes it perfectly cool even during summer. It is well furnished with a kitchen, washer, and you’ll have access to the shared pool. The cottage is near the beach and the Marine Park is accessible from the beach.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kilifi, Kenya
2.25 km (1.4 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
58 reviews  
Entire house 6 Beds 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
lucy was so helpful
lovely place and an amazing host
the host responds to messages and david who was there was very helpful
what an amazing house with amazing staff to help you
the caretaker is polite friendly and always willing to help
Location:
we very much enjoyed the stay at such a secluded and peaceful place including the walk to the beach
the cottage is beautiful tucked away in the middle of beautiful greenery where you can take a walk
lovely beaches nearby (possible to walk in 15 minutes)
Cleanliness:
bedding and towels provided and mosquito nets very clean
the house is very nice and comfortable clean in calm location
Amenities & Room:
the roof space was a bonus and cool (no a/c)
the rooftop verandah isn't pictured but was my favorite place to stay besides the pool
Read more reviews

9. Nane at Swimbo Cottage

This cosy nook in a cottage next to a house is great for two guests who want a fuss-free accommodation. It overlooks Turtle Bay Beach and the bathroom is shared. Guests can cook at the kitchen in the house. There is access to a pool and sunbeds for lounging around. The place is equipped with a dryer/washer, maid service for the room, and free parking on the premises.

Stayed at this property?

4.17 km (2.6 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
25 reviews  
Private room 1 Bed 2 Guests

10. Saba at Swimbo Cottage

If you are in Watamu for a short stay, perhaps this double en-suite room in a cottage is suitable for you. The house itself overlooks turtle bay beach. It has stunning sea views, a swimming pool, and many areas to lounge around. There is also access to the beach from the house. Each room fits two guests, comes with its own kitchen, has access to a pool, essentials, and free parking on site.

Stayed at this property?

3.94 km (2.5 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
16 reviews  
Private room 1 Bed 2 Guests

11. Villa deluxe with personal service

This entire villa will fit eight guests comfortably. With a lovely tropical garden surrounding it, your guests will enjoy the peaceful scenery, and it is only one hundred fifty metres away from the sea! As the title states, you can request for help from the host at any time, and you can even ask for a personal cook. There is a kitchen TV, air conditioning, a washer, and a shared pool. An archaeological site, the Rovine di Gede is just five kilometres (3 miles) away.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Distretto di Kilifi, Kenya
8.76 km (5.5 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
68 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire villa 8 Beds 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Host:
staff were friendly and helpful
everyone was very helpful
very kind and responsive staff
caretaker connie was always present to give support when needed
it is a wonderful villa with attentive staff
Location:
location is great right by fortamu with direct access to beach by the coral walk
the house was beautiful and the location was superb
beautiful home in a great location
beach is walking distance and we made a lot of local friends there
the villa is extremely spacious nicely decorated and is close the beach
Cleanliness:
the villa was cleaned daily so the space was always clean
the swimming pool is clean and a big size
the place was beautiful clean spacious and well priced
it was clean and looks just like the pictures
well maintained and pretty clean
Amenities & Room:
the pool is deliciously warm and we were lucky to have complete privacy
some amenities listed as being included in the price like washing machine and toilet rolls are not available
to make your stay as comfortable as possible go for the chef he will serf yummy food
lovely place be aware that the kitchen is very poorly equipped
the two extra single beds are comfortable for children or short people
Read more reviews

12. Watamu Villa with service personnel

Another suite in Watamu Villa, this one has two bedrooms and sleeps four guests. Surrounded by a large tropical garden, you can walk from the garden to the beach. The service personnel are always around to attend to your needs, and you can request for a personal cook. The place is well-furnished with a kitchen, air conditioning, TV, a washer and access to a shared pool. There is a golf course located a few hundred metres away.

Stayed at this property?
Watamu, Kilifi, Kenya
8.53 km (5.3 mi) from Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
43 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire villa 5 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff are fantastic
david was also very helpful and good company hope you enjoyed the chocolate
the staff is very nice discreet and helpful
many thanks to daniele and the friendly staff including the guards working there
franklin and the staff working there were very helpful
Location:
baobab village is a safe location which seems to be a popular spot for kenyan’s to holiday
this was the perfect place to stay for our trip to watamu
the pictures of the accomodation do not even come close to the amazing scenery and beautiful accomodation
we would definitely recommend daniele's place to anyone
great place to stay in watamu even better than in the pictures
Cleanliness:
the place is wonderful: very clean relaxing cozy private and amazing staff
Amenities & Room:
aircondition and fan helped us during the night because it gets quite hot inside the house
the apartment is about 150 meters from the beach which has a very cool breeze and view
everything is as described the house is huge and the pool is perfect as well
the apartment was breath taking with its beautiful decoration
Read more reviews

The sun and the sand, all in Watamu, Kenya

If you are looking for a place to bring your entire family, then Watamu, Kenya, stands out as an excellent choice. From the spacious vacation homes that come with professional help to the myriad of fun water activities, and the variety of local shops, your family and friends will be raving about this holiday for days to come. So start planning the trip by picking one of our top selected Airbnbs in Watamu near the beaches.

Just in case you are planning a longer vacation in Kenya, you can explore more of the local culture by staying in one of the Airbnbs in the nearby town of Malindi.

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb vacation rentals in Watamu, Kenya


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Juliet, an ardent traveler, a real-life educator, and a part-time adult ballerina, embraces her status as a late bloomer, discovering beauty in the world around her and continually seeking out new...Read more

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