Watamu's bar and drinking scene offers a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere, particularly lively on weekends, with a mix of relaxed sunset spots and energetic beach parties.
Entertainment and Music:
Watamu offers a lively and inclusive music and entertainment scene, particularly active on weekends, attracting a diverse crowd for dancing and socializing.
For those seeking live music, Sunset Lab is a notable venue, featuring incredible live musicians and DJ performances, particularly vibrant on Friday nights. Paparemo Beach also contributes to the music scene with its popular Saturday night beach parties, often including live music alongside renowned DJs.
1. Sunset Lab
Type: Beach Bar & Pizzeria
Nestled on a beautiful bay, Sunset Lab provides a bohemian ambiance with comfortable seating, perfect for enjoying breathtaking sunsets. By day, it offers a chill atmosphere, transforming into a lively hotspot on Friday nights. You can experience vibrant evenings with exceptional DJs playing a mix of international hits and Afrobeat, often accompanied by live performers. It's an excellent spot to begin your evening, socialise, and enjoy delicious Italian pizza and cocktails.
Getting There: Sunset Lab is typically a short walk from the main areas of Watamu. For locations further away, local tuk-tuks or motorbikes are readily available, with fares ranging from approximately KES 100-500 for motorbikes and KES 500-1000 for tuk-tuks depending on the distance.
2. Paparemo Beach Party
Type: Beach Party Venue
Paparemo Beach is renowned for its energetic Saturday night beach parties, a cult event in Watamu. Situated directly on the white sands overlooking the 'islands of love,' it offers a unique barefoot disco experience. The venue attracts a diverse crowd of both locals and tourists, dancing to a mix of African and Italian mainstream music. You can also enjoy dinner under the stars before the party picks up.
Getting There: As a beachfront venue, Paparemo Beach is easily accessible. While some accommodations might be within walking distance, it is common to use tuk-tuks or local taxis for convenience, especially at night. A taxi for a 5km ride within Watamu typically costs around KES 1050.
3. Ocean Sports
Type: Resort Bar
Ocean Sports offers a well-established and sociable bar experience within a popular resort. It maintains a relaxed, slightly old-fashioned charm with excellent service and impressive ocean views. The main bar area is uniquely designed, incorporating an old wooden boat. This venue hosts Friday night discos, fostering interaction among guests and the local community. It is a good choice for those seeking a comfortable setting with both dining and drinking options.
Getting There: Ocean Sports is located directly on the beach, making it accessible from many parts of Watamu. Depending on your accommodation, walking might be an option. Alternatively, local tuk-tuks and taxis are widely available for transport, with fares similar to other local trips.
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