Mida Creek in Watamu is one of Watamu’s great hidden gems, a Broadwater tidal watercourse bordered by huge mangroves and fringed with palm trees that stretches inland from the sea through Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Wide, healthy beds of seagrass and coral line this 32 km creek, which is also home to several fish species and feeding sea turtles. Crabs and wildlife find sanctuary in the smaller streams and inlets of the mangroves.
Many migrating birds halt in Mida, which is also an important protected area for their survival. As a result, it ranks among the most significant and stunning natural landmarks on the Kenyan coast. The finest way to experience Mida is by boat, on a sundowner cocktail tour through the creek as the sun sets and the waters turn golden and flocks of roosting birds fill the sky. Flamingoes are often seen feeding in Mida.
Kingfishers hunt in the shallow waters, and fish eagles sit in the nearby trees, making the creek an amazing place to kayak. There are countless little channels and passages through the mangroves to explore. In addition, you can float through the creek with a guide while wearing a life vest propelled by the calm tidal currents or use a stand-up paddle board (SUP).
Wakeboarding and waterskiing are both great activities on the central Broadwater. On a boardwalk and terrace built over the mangroves with views across the creek, a local community project called the Mida Creek Conservation Community operates a crab farm and a local crab shack restaurant serving crab delicacies, including its extremely popular crab samosas.
Best time to visit the Mida Creek
July to October is considered to be the best time to visit as this is the longest dry season with cool coastal conditions and the skies are clear and sunny.
Mida Creek Opening Hours
Mida Creek opens daily from 6am to 6pm
