The Surf Window

Watamu

Kilifi, Kenya

Reef breakIntermediate

A marine national park on Kenya's north coast with a quality reef break beside a UNESCO-protected coral garden, the combination of surf and extraordinary marine life makes Watamu uniquely special on the East African coast.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

W

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

April–July

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (primary)

Bottom

Reef (coral)

Shape

Peeling right wall over a coral reef

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The coral reef is sharp and very shallow at low tide, experience and booties are essential

Hazards

  • •Sharp coral reef, booties mandatory
  • •Protected marine park, check regulations before surfing
  • •Strong tidal currents

Local Tips

  • •The Watamu Marine Association manages the reef, check in with them on arrival
  • •Turtle Bay is one of Kenya's most beautiful beaches, worth the trip for the scenery alone

Location

Map showing the location of Watamu in Kilifi, Kenya

-3.3583, 40.0333