Hemingways Watamu, Watamu
About the Hotel
Hemingways Watamu is situated in Watamu, an iconic tropical paradise known for its breathtaking marine biodiversity and picturesque shoreline along the Indian Ocean. The hotel has been a hallmark of Kenyan coastal luxury for nearly 30 years, offering exceptional personal service. Watamu's meaning, 'home of the sweet people' in Swahili, reflects its welcoming charm, enhanced by proximity to the Watamu Marine National Park.
Location
Hemingways Watamu is approximately 100 kilometers north of Mombasa and 25 kilometers south of Malindi, with the nearest airport located in Malindi, a 30-minute drive away. The hotel's location within the protected Watamu Marine National Park allows for easy access to scenic beaches and diverse aquatic activities. Guests can explore the local area, including cultural spots, nature reserves, and other attractions, with transportation options readily available.
Rooms
The hotel offers bright, airy rooms measuring 40m², each with en-suite bathrooms and private balconies showcasing stunning ocean views. Deluxe Ocean View Rooms, located on the top floor of the North Wing, provide a luxurious experience with marble tiled bathrooms and breathtaking vistas. The Residences feature configurations ranging from one to four bedrooms, offering comfortable living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and large terraces with expansive views. These apartments provide flexibility for families or groups while maintaining a sense of privacy and independence.
Eat & Drink
Hemingways Watamu hosts multiple dining venues, starting with a breakfast menu featuring freshly baked pastries and local favorites. The Gede Café offers casual dining with a selection of homemade pastas, grilled seafood, and creative sharing platters. For a more intimate experience, the iconic Hemingways Bar presents stunning views of the ocean alongside a diverse cocktail menu. Guests can also enjoy fresh seafood dishes and local flavors in a candlelit setting for special occasions.
Leisure & Business
The hotel includes a range of leisure facilities such as a comprehensive spa offering African-inspired treatments, a well-equipped gym, and options for tennis. A variety of water sports, including snorkeling, diving, and deep sea fishing, can be arranged. For business travelers, modern corporate facilities with communication technology support meetings and events, fostering an inspiring environment for networking and team-building activities.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- 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
- Lift
- Currency exchange
- Barber shop
- Coffee shop
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
- Wind surfing
- Diving
- Snorkelling
- Canoeing
- Darts
- Table tennis
- Mini golf
- Squash
- Sports trainer
- Fishing
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Paid airport shuttle
- Valet parking
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Welcome drink
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
- Board games
- Children's menu
- Children's pool
- Children's play area
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Beach access
- Beach umbrellas
- Sun loungers
- Live entertainment
- Garden area
- Spa & wellness centre
- Pedicure
- Manicure
- Waxing
- Body scrub
- Facial
- Treatment room
- Body wraps
- Massage
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Mini-bar
- Soundproofed rooms
- Sitting area
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel rooms are spacious, very clean, and should include more information such as beach amenities. However, guests should be aware that drinks are not included despite initial information. The staff, especially Monica, Nelson, James, Austin, Kenga, and Ronald, go above and beyond to ensure a home away from home experience for guests. The location offers great sea views and easy access to the beach, while the dining experience, though fresh and made to order, lacks variety expected of a 5-star establishment.
The hotel offers dazzling, well-appointed rooms with a massive terrace balcony, top-notch food, and great cocktails. The service is superb with staff going out of their way to ensure a memorable stay, though minor details could be improved. The location is unbeatable, providing lovely sea views and a nice beach atmosphere. The dining experience is fresh and made to order, but could benefit from more variety. The facilities are top-notch, offering everything needed for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.