2026-10-14
Parks, beaches and nature in Nyali, Mombasa
Photo: Auto-generated feature card
Mombasa Marine National Park is a marine protected area off the coast of Mombasa covering 22 square kilometres with coral reefs and rich marine life. The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. Entry fees are charged. Plan 4 to 6 hours for a visit.
What is Mombasa Marine National Park?
Mombasa Marine National Park is a marine protected area located off the coast of Mombasa, Kenya. It stretches northward from Mombasa Island and covers about 22 square kilometres. The park is famous for its coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves, which provide habitat for a variety of marine life including colourful tropical fish, turtles, starfish, sea urchins and corals. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boat tours, windsurfing and wakeboarding. The park is also a good place for dolphin watching and birdwatching. It is open year-round, 24 hours a day. The recommended sightseeing time is 4 to 6 hours.
Matatu routes along Nyali Road serve the area. Confirm the exact stop for boat operators.
💡 Money-saving tips for families
- Mombasa Island City centre and Fort Jesus
- Nyali Beach Beach and dining
- Mtwapa Creek Boat rides and dining
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming costume. Towel. Sunscreen. Sun hat. Water bottle. Cash or card. |
Key details
- Address
- Nyali Road, Mombasa, Mombasa
- GPS coordinates
- -4.05, 39.7
- Opening hours
- Open year-round, 24/7. Open now
- How long to plan
- 4 to 6 hours
- Suitable ages
- All ages
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Booking
- Walk-in
- Payment accepted
- Cash
- Card
- Phone
- +254 202317371
What to expect when you visit
Plan for a 4 to 6 hour visit. The park is offshore from Nyali to Mtwapa Creek. Access is by boat from various points along the coast.
Snorkel or dive to see the coral reefs. The park has extensive coral reefs and seagrass beds. Colourful tropical fish, turtles and starfish are common.
Take a glass-bottom boat tour. This is a good option for families with young children who cannot snorkel. Dolphin watching is also possible.
Bring sun protection. The park is outdoors and there is little shade on the water. Confirm boat operators and fees in advance.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Minimum age
- No minimum age
- Facilities
- Toilets
- First aid
- Access and parking
- Public transport nearby
- Safety notes
Supervision required. Wear life jackets on boats. Follow marine park rules. Do not touch coral.
Tickets and costs
- Toddler entry (0 if free)
- KES 130
- Ages that pay the child rate
- 125
- Free entry rules
- Public transport nearby
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Entry fees are charged. Confirm current rates by phone. Non-resident rates may apply.
- Food and drink per person (estimate)
- Free
- Transport estimate note
- Snorkeling. Diving. Glass-bottom boat tours. Windsurfing. Wakeboarding. Dolphin watching.
Plan your visit
- Best time to visit
- Some toddler activities
- Busiest times
- 2026-10-14
- How to get there
Early morning or late afternoon. Avoid midday heat.
- By car
- Weekends and holidays are busier.
- Uber / Bolt estimate
- Mombasa Marine National Park is offshore from Nyali to Mtwapa Creek, north of Mombasa Island. Access is by boat from Nyali or Mtwapa.
- Public transport
Cash|Card
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
Combine your visit
Plan the perfect day
♿ :: Wheelchair access :: Glass-bottom boat tours may be accessible. Confirm with the boat operator.
What to pack
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Family day bag checklist
What visitors say
Kids' reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share what your visit was like.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the Mombasa Marine National Park opening hours?
- Open year-round, 24/7. Busiest: 2026-10-14.
- Is Mombasa Marine National Park suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Minimum age: No minimum age. Supervision required. Wear life jackets on boats. Follow marine park rules. Do not touch coral.
- How long do you need at Mombasa Marine National Park?
- Plan for 4 to 6 hours.
- What payment methods does Mombasa Marine National Park accept?
- Mombasa Marine National Park accepts Cash, Card.
- Is Mombasa Marine National Park accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Public transport nearby.
- What is the best time to visit Mombasa Marine National Park?
- Some toddler activities. It is busiest 2026-10-14.
- How do you get to Mombasa Marine National Park?
- Weekends and holidays are busier. Ride-hailing: Mombasa Marine National Park is offshore from Nyali to Mtwapa Creek, north of Mombasa Island. Access is by boat from Nyali or Mtwapa. Public transport: Cash|Card Early morning or late afternoon. Avoid midday heat.
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