Watamu Marine National Park, Marine national park in Kilifi County, Kenya.
Watamu Marine National Park is a protected marine area along Kenya's coast featuring coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and sandy shores. The park encompasses shallow coastal waters that harbor diverse marine ecosystems within a defined boundary.
The marine sanctuary was established in 1968, marking Kenya's early effort to protect ocean ecosystems. This foundation led to broader conservation initiatives along the country's coastal regions.
Local fishing communities work alongside conservation organizations to protect the waters and reefs that have sustained them for generations. Traditional ways of harvesting resources remain visible in daily life along the coast.
The best time to visit is during the dry season when waters are calmer and underwater visibility improves. Plan to spend time on guided boat tours, as these are the primary way to explore the protected areas.
The park hosts an remarkable variety of marine animals, with hundreds of fish species and numerous types of coral living in its waters. It also serves as a nesting ground where several sea turtle species return to lay their eggs.
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