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An Exclusive Swahili-Inspired Retreat in Watamu
An exclusive gateway to Watamu Marine Park, Medina Palms is a luxury beachfront resort, set in a paradisiacal blend of Kenyan, Moroccan and Mediterranean influences.
Medina Palms is an all-suite beachfront retreat on Watamu's celebrated Turtle Bay, weaving Swahili, Moroccan and Mediterranean influences into arched walkways, sculpted pools and palm-shaded courtyards. The four-star property trades hotel-room convention for spacious apartment-style living directly on one of Kenya's finest beaches.
The resort lies off Turtle Bay Road in Watamu on Kenya's north coast, around 30 minutes by road from Malindi Airport, itself an hour's flight from Nairobi. On the doorstep, Watamu Marine National Park protects coral gardens, turtles and reef fish, making snorkelling, diving, kayaking and boat safaris the daily rhythm; Mida Creek's birdlife and the Gede ruins area add culture and nature excursions beyond the sand.
The 50 suites and villas run from one-bedroom suites with kitchenettes to two-bedroom suites, three-bedroom penthouses and private villas with pools, all featuring contemporary interiors and generous terraces. A full-service spa, kids club, rooftop terraces and multiple pools support long, unhurried stays. Cooking classes, yoga sessions and sunset dhow cruises pace out the week, while babysitting services, an airport shuttle and around-the-clock room service give parents and long-stay guests genuine flexibility.
Island-hop across the border to Zanzibar, or combine wildlife and coast on the 9-day Kenya and Zanzibar itinerary.
Luxurious top-floor suite with expansive living areas, private terrace, and stunning ocean or garden views.
Exclusive villa with multiple bedrooms, private pool, full kitchen, and spacious indoor/outdoor living areas for ultimate privacy.
Larger suite with two bedrooms, shared living space, and outdoor seating, perfect for families or small groups.
Spacious suite with king bed, living area, kitchenette, and private balcony or terrace, ideal for couples.
Medina Palms, Off Turtle Bay Road, Watamu
Location
Off Turtle Bay Road, Watamu
Watamu region
Property Type
Hotel
4-star rated property
Destination
Watamu
Kenya
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Get directions & explore the area
Located on the stunning shores of Watamu Beach along Kenya's North Coast, Medina Palms is a luxurious beachfront resort offering easy access by air, road, and rail. The resort is situated on Turtle Bay Road in Watamu, approximately 20 km south of Malindi.
By Air: The fastest and most convenient option is to fly from Nairobi's Wilson Airport or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Malindi Airport (MYD), a flight of approximately 1 hour. From Malindi Airport, the resort is about 30 minutes by road. Guests may also fly into Vipingo Airstrip, followed by a road transfer to Watamu.
By Road: Guests can drive from Nairobi to Watamu via the Nairobi–Mombasa Highway and Malindi Road. The journey covers approximately 550 km and takes around 7–8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Train (SGR): Travelers can take the Madaraka Express (SGR) from Nairobi to Mombasa Terminus, followed by a road transfer of approximately 2.5–3 hours to Watamu. This is a comfortable alternative for guests wishing to enjoy Kenya's coastal scenery.
Private Transfers & Holiday Packages: Private airport transfers, chauffeur-driven services, and tailor-made beach holiday packages can be arranged, providing seamless connections from Nairobi, Mombasa, Malindi, and other destinations within Kenya.
Nearest Airport: Malindi Airport (MYD) is the closest gateway to the resort, located approximately 21 km away, offering convenient daily connections from Nairobi and other destinations.
Located on the stunning Turtle Bay Beach in Watamu, Medina Palms is one of Kenya's most luxurious beach resorts, offering direct access to the Watamu Marine National Park, white-sand beaches, world-class snorkeling, diving, and a tranquil coastal atmosphere.
This is widely considered the best time to visit Medina Palms. The weather is warm, sunny, and dry, with calm ocean conditions perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving, dhow cruises, and relaxing on the beach. Marine life is abundant, and visibility for underwater activities is excellent.
These months offer cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and excellent conditions for beach walks, water sports, and exploring Watamu. It is also one of the best periods for combining a beach holiday with a Kenya safari.
The short rains usually arrive during this period, but showers are often brief. The gardens become lush, visitor numbers are lower, and the resort maintains a peaceful atmosphere. Birdwatching and photography are particularly rewarding.
These are typically the wettest months on the Kenyan coast. While rainfall is more frequent, guests benefit from lower rates, fewer visitors, and a very relaxed atmosphere. The resort remains open and tranquil throughout this period.
Located directly on Watamu's famous Turtle Bay Beach.
Easy access to Watamu Marine National Park, one of East Africa's finest marine reserves.
Spacious luxury suites, penthouses, and beachfront villas surrounded by tropical gardens and pools.
Excellent snorkeling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing, and sunset cruises.
Perfect for honeymooners, couples, families, and safari-and-beach combinations.
5 questions about Medina Palms
Everything you need to plan an unforgettable African adventure.
Property details reviewed by Imara Africa Safaris’ Nairobi-based safari specialists, who inspect and book Medina Palms for guests throughout the year. Rates, room configurations and seasonal access are confirmed with the property before travel. .