The dream kitesurfing destination - Watamu, Kenya
Table of contents
An Introduction to The Spot
Watamu is a growing but still very authentic tourist town that offers an unparalleled kitesurfing experience against the backdrop of a beautiful nature reserve.
Because it’s a nature reserve, the beach doesn’t have the big resort hotels that you see elsewhere on the coast, meaning there are over 6 kilometres of kite-able white sand beaches. You’re guaranteed crystal clear turquoise water, you’ll often spot turtles, rays, and even dolphins during your sessions.
The town and surrounding area boasts an array of amazing restaurants and stunning houses that are all available for rent.
The Best Time to Kite In Watamu
There are two prime seasons in Watamu where the annual trade winds blow super predictably and super strong.
The Kaskazi season from January to March brings trade winds from the northeast, ideal for downwinders from Che Shale, Malindi or Jacaranda that end up in Watamu itself. We’ve been lucky enough to go on a bunch of these trips and they’re truly epic
Kuzi season in July and August offers winds from the south east, providing another excellent window for the sport. It’s said that Kuzi pumps harder than Kaskazi, but with the European season in full swing, it tends to be quieter and less well attended.
Kitesurfing Conditions in Watamu
Watamu is pretty much on the equator, so enjoys warm temperatures year-round, with the water almost being like a bath. So you’ll need just swimsuits or board shorts and a rash vest for your session.
The sun is incredibly hot - so please pack strong protection for your face and head.
The bright turquoise waters, while stunning, can be tough on the eyes, so bringing suitable eyewear is a must.
Tides are never too rough but the ideal time to kite in Watamu is a low tide in the late afternoon when the wind is at its strongest and the sun is setting - it’s quite literally paradise and I couldn’t recommend it more.
Kite Schools in Watamu
There are three main kite schools in Watamu, each of which we have been fortunate to work with and each of them offer services you might need.
Tribe WaterSports - has the best infrastructure in Watamu, a dedicated rescue boat, offers kite, foil and wing lessons and also beach assistance and kite storage.
JC’s Kite School - run by a former Italian champ, JCs is located down at the beach where the music and vibes are always good. They’re kitted out with the latest Duotone gear so are an excellent option for rentals.
Watamu Local Kiters - this school was set up a couple of years ago by Jomba and his crew. They may be new on the scene but they’re passionate and operate out of a great little spot between Tribe and JCs.
If you need any tips on which school to go for - you can contact us here.
Best Kitesurfing Accommodation
While there are multiple high-end hotels in Watamu, staying in a beach house offers an unparalleled experience.
These houses can be expensive, but when you get up to 10 or 12 people, they actually get very affordable, and will almost certainly come fully staffed, including a chef.
For those of us who don’t have 10 or 12 friends who all want to go kiting, Kite Legends can help you out with our group packages, meaning you get to stay in a luxurious house with other likeminded kiters, at a fraction of the cost.
Prices in Watamu
Although prices fluctuate a little depending on the time of year, they’re generally lower than in Europe, offering incredible value, particularly for those lucky enough to travel in groups.
Hotels can be expensive, but a house of 10 or 12 can become much more affordable, for incredible luxury.
A great meal at one of the best spots will cost you around €10 / £8, and a beer or glass of wine will be €2 / £1.80.
Kite lessons are pretty standard prices - with a course of 3 lessons running you in the region of $400US.
If you’ve got a good relationship with one of the schools, they’ll do you a deal on beach assistance and kite pumping.
Places to Eat
Watamu has an amazing restaurant scene, inspired in no small part by the surprisingly large .
Lichthaus is a famous spot for sundowners, with its decking and hanging nets over looking the creek and open grill it’s a firm favourite.
Kokomo is new and offers fresh Lebanese fare right on the beach, as well as a carefully curated DJ line up on the weekends.
Kobe offers a perfect lunch spot with a glass of rosé. It’s right by the main kite spot which is why we love lunch there so much.
Ocean Sports combines excellent food with a vibrant atmosphere in the setting of a large hotel. It’s great for watching sports and has a bit more of a sports bar on the beach vibe to it
Sunset sells authentic Italian pizza (they absolutely refuse to do any pineapple) and it’s often touted as the best in East Africa
Pilipan is lakeside and has mean passionfruit mojitos and exceptional curries and local foods, mostly dealing in the freshest caught fish.
Getting to Watamu
International visitors can fly to Mombasa via major cities in Europe, typically connecting through Dubai, Istanbul, or Addis Ababa.
Alternatively, flying to Nairobi and catching one of the four daily flights to Malindi is an option, followed by a short taxi ride to Watamu.
In our view, getting to Watamu to go kiting is actually a lot easier than you might think, and it’s well, well worth it.
Other things to do
On low wind days (if indeed there are any) we promise you won’t be bored - there is a huge amount on offer.
Diving - there is a centre at Temple Point Resort that offers dives to the local reefs starting ar around $50
Safaris in Tsavo East - just a four hour drive away is some of Africa’s very best wildlife. You’re recommended to go and stay a night and doing so will ensure you get to go on multiple drives
Waterskiing on the creek - butter flat water and a huge area to play on make it an incredible morning or sunset activity.
Day trips to Malindi - the bustling town is full of great restaurants and has an incredible beach for chilling on
Deep-sea fishing - you can go up to 20 miles out to sea to catch some massive fish - personally we advocate working with locals who fish super sustainably!
Turtle Sanctuary - the turtle sanctuary does some amazing work looking after young, endangered turtles, and you can support them by taking a look around.