Hemingways Watamu Hotel Room photoHemingways Watamu Hotel Exterior photo The photo shows a bright and airy hotel room with a stunning ocean view. The room features two four-poster beds draped with white mosquito netting, each with blue and white patterned bedding and pillows. 

A wooden nightstand sits between the beds, aHemingways Watamu Hotel Exterior photo The photo shows a bright and spacious living area of a modern home, likely in a warm climate given the large sliding glass doors leading to a balcony or patio. The room features a combination of light-colored flooring, including light beige tiles and
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From345US$ /night
Check-in
04May2026Select date
Check-out
05May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Watamu Marine National Park, B8, Watamu, Kenya
-
Steps from Turtle Bay Beach
Great
8.8
/10
4.6
4.5
/5

Location

Hemingways Watamu is situated along the pristine shores of the Watamu Marine National Park, providing direct access to an uninterrupted white sand beach and clear turquoise waters. This coastal oasis is located approximately 120 km north of Mombasa and 20 km south of Malindi, making it easily accessible for travelers. Guests can explore vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, renowned for attracting diverse marine life including sea turtles and whale sharks.

Rooms

The hotel offers various room types, all designed with ocean views. Ocean view rooms range from 40m² to 150m², featuring en-suite bathrooms, private balconies, and high-quality furnishings. The expansive 4 Bedroom Ocean View penthouse-style duplex apartments include exclusive terraces and multiple lounging areas for groups or families.

Dining

Dining at Hemingways Watamu includes a selection of choices that cater to diverse tastes. The Gede Café serves casual meals with options like homemade pastas and grilled seafood, while the Hemingways Bar offers a tropical cocktail experience with stunning ocean views. For a more memorable dining experience, guests can enjoy fresh seafood prepared by chefs utilizing local ingredients in a picturesque candlelit atmosphere.

Wellness

The Spa at Hemingways Watamu offers a variety of treatments inspired by traditional African ingredients, promoting rejuvenation and relaxation. Located by the botanical pool, it provides a serene escape for guests looking to unwind after a day of activities. Wellness services include customized therapies designed to restore balance and enhance overall wellbeing.

Activities

The hotel offers an array of activities including deep-sea fishing, kite surfing, and sunset dhow cruises on Mida Creek. Those interested in nature can engage in whale watching during the migration season or explore the rich biodiversity of nearby Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Families can also enjoy guided excursions to discover local culture and wildlife.

Highlights

Location: Watamu Marine National Park

Rooms: Ocean view apartments up to 305m²

Dining: Gede Café & Hemingways Bar

Wellness: Spa with African-inspired treatments

Activities: Deep-sea fishing & whale watching

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Watamu Marine National Park for incredible snorkeling.
  • Savor fresh seafood at Come Back Restaurant on the beach.
  • Explore the Gede Ruins for a glimpse of ancient Swahili culture.
  • Don't miss the vibrant Watamu market for local crafts and spices.
  • Take a sunset dhow cruise for a magical evening on the water.
View all

Select your room type

Hemingways Watamu Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Ocean View Double Room
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Ocean view
Shower
Bathtub
Twin Room Sea View
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Sea view
Shower
Bathtub
Ocean View Double Room
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Ocean view
Shower
Bathtub
Two-Bedroom Ocean View Suite
2 persons
2155 sq. feet 
2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed
Ocean view
Shower
Bathtub
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
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Facilities

Hemingways Watamu Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Private beach
  • Lift
  • Currency exchange
  • Barber shop
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Wind surfing
  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Mini golf
  • Squash
  • Sports trainer
  • Aerobics
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen
  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Baby pushchair
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Children's play area

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen
  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite

At Hemingways Watamu, dining becomes a cherished experience with stunning views and exquisite flavors. Delight in an array of seafood and grilled delicacies that reflect the vibrant local culture, all within a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Hemingways Watamu Hotel Restaurant photo The photo shows a spacious and elegant dining area, likely in a resort or upscale restaurant, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space has a high, vaulted ceiling constructed from light-colored bamboo or wood, supported by exposed wooden beams.

Restaurant #1

Seafood and Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
Family-friendly, modern, and romantic setting with stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the picturesque Watamu Beach
Key Offerings
Signature seafood dishes and expertly grilled options, perfect for any meal of the day, accented by the serene whispers of the ocean and the charm of local migratory birds nearby.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; hours may vary.

Hemingways Watamu Hotel Location

Watamu Marine National Park, B8, Watamu, Kenya
Map view
Watamu Marine National Park, B8, Watamu, Kenya
Nearby
Turtle Bay Road
Prawn Lake
1800 ft
Michael Savana Safari
1000 ft
Restaurants
The Ocean Sports Restaurant
2200 ft
1 Mida Creek Road Ocean Sports Resort
Happy Days Bar & Restaurant
4000 ft
Turtle Bay Road
NON SOLO GELATO by anna
1700 ft
Turtle Bay Road
Explore Watamu
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Michael Savana Safari
Michael Savana Safari
5 minutes' walk
Safari experience featuring local wildlife and guided tours. Ideal for families seeking adventure.
Prawn Lake
Prawn Lake
12 minutes' walk
Popular site for birdwatching and relaxing strolls. Scenic views make it a perfect picnic spot.
Watamu Marine National Park
20 minutes' walk
Stunning marine park known for snorkeling and diving. Home to diverse marine life and coral reefs.
Tribe Kitesurfing
Tribe Kitesurfing
30 minutes' drive
Kitesurfing lessons for thrill-seekers with equipment rentals available. Classes suitable for all skill levels.
Sakina Ocean Spa
10 minutes' walk
Relaxing spa offering various treatments including massages and facials. Perfect for unwinding after activities.
The Ocean Sports Restaurant
The Ocean Sports Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Casual dining with a vibrant atmosphere. Known for fresh seafood and local specialties.
Happy Days Bar & Restaurant
Happy Days Bar & Restaurant
15 minutes' walk
Family-friendly spot offering a mix of international and local dishes. Great for unwinding with live music evenings.
Watamu Beach
Watamu Beach
20 minutes' walk
Stunning beach with soft sands, perfect for sunset walks. Offers a lively atmosphere for families and couples.
Comeback
Comeback
5 minutes' drive
Vibrant bar with live music and a friendly vibe. Ideal for a fun night out with friends or a casual date.
Getting around
City Centre
Watamu5 min  ·  1.9 mi
Airports
Malindi (MYD)31 min  ·  12.8 mi
Vipingo Estate (vpg)118 min  ·  48.7 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 13:00-18:30
Check-out
from 04:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Hemingways Watamu serves a full breakfast for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2009
Number of rooms:
55

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Hemingways Watamu Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 206 verified reviews
9.2/10
Perfect
93%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
9.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.4/10
Location
9.2/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Guest reviews
based on 206 reviews
9.2/10
based on 192 reviews
8.8/10
rod from united states
Family with children
deluxe double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 26, 2026
7/10

decent stay

lebanese restaurantquiet poolblanket waiverguest rightunanswered call
i enjoyed the restaurant service. their lebanese restaurant was especially good. the quiet pool provided the best space for relaxation. the spa service was also excellent.
the hotel now requires guests to sign a blanket waiver of all of their rights. i found that some rights cannot be signed away by a hotel guest. calls to the reception often went unanswered.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Hemingways Watamu
Are hot bathtubs available in the guest rooms?
12 November 2024
The Deluxe Rooms feature rain showers instead of hot bathtubs.
Is there a shuttle service from Malindi Airport?
15 January 2025
Private transfers from Malindi Airport are available for Kes 3,000 one way for up to 4 passengers, and return transfers are offered for Kes 6,000.
Can I make a reservation for February 2025?
23 September 2024
Reservations for February 2025 are currently being accepted. Please try booking again on the website.
Is Halal food available for guests?
5 October 2024
Halal food is served, ensuring dietary preferences are respected.
Do the accommodations allow for self-catering?
17 May 2025
Every apartment is equipped with a fully modern kitchen, allowing guests to purchase and prepare their own meals.
Can I visit just for a day to enjoy lunch and access the beach and pool?
3 December 2024
Day visits for enjoying lunch and access to the beach and pool are permitted.
Is half-board service offered to guests?
22 February 2025
Half-board rates are available for those choosing this accommodation option.
What is the ideal time for fishing in the region?
10 August 2024
Fishing activities are best during the windy months of July and August. For fishing rates, inquiries can be made at the Hemingways collection or reservations.
What meals are offered to guests who are not staying at the hotel?
30 November 2024
Non-guests can enjoy a full English breakfast for Kes 2,500 and a continental breakfast for Kes 1,500.
Is it possible to add an extra bed for a child in the room?
14 January 2025
A rollaway bed can be added for a child at an additional cost.

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