Mombasa Marine National Park

The park covers the lagoon and reef in front of Mombasa's northern beaches, which makes it the most accessible marine park in Kenya: boats leave directly from the hotel beaches and the reef is only a short ride out. Inside the lagoon the water is shallow and calm, and snorkelling over the coral gardens turns up angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, wrasse and sea urchins in quantity, with turtles seen fairly often. Glass-bottom boats serve those who prefer to stay dry. Being adjacent to a city and its hotel strip, the reef takes pressure from visitor numbers, boat anchors and runoff, and its condition is patchy compared with the southern parks; the reserve area outside the park allows some fishing. It remains an easy introduction to the reef for anyone based on the north coast.

What you actually see

• Lagoon coral gardens - shallow reef with dense small fish.
• Glass-bottom boats - viewing without getting in the water.
• Turtles - seen reasonably often over the reef.
• Easy access - departures straight from the hotel beaches.

When to go

October to March for calm, clear water; the southeast monsoon churns up the lagoon from June to September. Low tide brings the reef closest to the surface. Mornings are calmest.

Honest expectations

Coral condition is mediocre compared with Kisite or Watamu because of the pressure a city puts on a reef. Beach touts selling boat trips are persistent along the hotel strip; agree prices and check that park fees are included. Equipment quality varies. Sea urchins are numerous, so reef shoes help.

Nearby

Mombasa old town and Fort Jesus are south; Haller Park is inland at Bamburi.