Hemingways Watamu


Hemingways Watamu is a stylish and tranquil beachfront retreat set on the pristine shores of Kenya’s Indian Ocean, renowned for its relaxed luxury and natural beauty. Overlooking powder-white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, the resort offers elegant accommodation, exceptional dining, and warm, attentive service in a peaceful coastal setting. With its prime location near Watamu Marine National Park, guests can enjoy superb snorkelling and diving, while the serene pool, ocean-facing rooms, and unspoilt surroundings make Hemingways Watamu the perfect place to unwind and conclude a Kenyan safari in effortless style.

Our Review

★★★★★

Hemingways Watamu is a refined beachfront retreat that perfectly captures the relaxed elegance of Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast. Set directly on a pristine stretch of white-sand beach, the hotel feels peaceful and exclusive, with uninterrupted views of turquoise waters and gentle ocean breezes creating an immediate sense of calm. From arrival, the atmosphere is welcoming yet understated, making it an ideal place to slow down and unwind after a safari adventure.

Service at Hemingways Watamu is warm, attentive, and polished, ensuring guests feel well looked after without ever feeling rushed. The food is of an excellent standard, with fresh seafood and locally inspired dishes featuring prominently on the menu, all served in a relaxed yet elegant dining environment. Whether enjoying breakfast with ocean views or dinner as the sun sets, dining here is consistently a highlight of the stay.

The accommodation is spacious, comfortable, and beautifully designed, with ocean-facing rooms that maximise the stunning coastal setting. Interiors are light and airy, reflecting the surrounding landscape, and private balconies or terraces provide the perfect place to relax and listen to the sound of the waves. The pool area is equally impressive, offering a serene space to lounge while overlooking the beach and ocean beyond.

For guests seeking activities, Hemingways Watamu offers a wide range of experiences both on land and at sea. Calm waters make paddleboarding and kayaking particularly enjoyable, while dhow cruises provide a more traditional and leisurely way to explore the coastline. The nearby Watamu Marine National Park is a major draw, offering excellent snorkelling and diving with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and seasonal marine life including turtles and dolphins.

Beyond the water, guests can choose to explore the surrounding area or simply embrace the slower pace of coastal life. Nature walks, cultural excursions, and fishing trips can all be arranged, while those keen to continue their safari experience can opt for a day or overnight excursion to Tsavo National Park. Whether filled with adventure or spent in complete relaxation, a stay at Hemingways Watamu delivers an effortlessly luxurious coastal escape that perfectly complements a Kenyan safari journey.

Tours that include this Accommodation