Lily Palm Resort in Watamu offers a captivating beachfront experience that appeals to many travelers seeking a blend of convenience and coastal charm. Its prime location on Blue Lagoon provides stunning sea views and easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant surroundings. Guests consistently highlight the resort's warm and welcoming staff as one of its standout features, enhancing the overall experience with their exceptional service and friendliness.
Accommodations at Lily Palm Resort are generally praised for cleanliness and spaciousness, although some guests mention the need for updates, particularly in bathrooms. Most visitors find the rooms comfortable, with amenities like air conditioning and mosquito nets contributing to a restful stay, despite occasional critiques on the dated decor.
Dining at the resort is a memorable affair, with the Italian and Kenyan dishes receiving particular acclaim. Special highlights like poolside gala dinners add a touch of sophistication and joy. The breakfast offerings receive mixed reviews, with many appreciating the variety and ocean-view dining, while others call for greater variety and better coffee options.
The resort's pools are a major attraction, offering spectacular ocean views and a serene environment for relaxation. Facilities include beachside cabanas and diverse swimming areas that guests find delightful. However, the nearby beach, while stunning, has some areas affected by seaweed and local vendors, which may detract slightly from the otherwise idyllic setting.
For families, Lily Palm Resort is lauded as an excellent choice thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, interconnecting room options, and activities like the African-style massage. The proximity to the beach and attractions enriches the family experience, offering quality time amid beautiful surroundings.
Overall, despite minor issues with Wi-Fi connectivity and the dated aspects of some facilities, Lily Palm Resort provides a comfortable and friendly accommodation option. Its winning combination of location, attentive service, and lovely pool facilities makes it a favored option for those seeking a relaxing escape on the Kenyan coast.
Gecko Resort is highly praised for its exceptional location on Watamu's renowned Garoda Beach, offering guests immediate access to clear blue waters and pristine white sands. This tranquil and picturesque setting is a standout feature, providing a slice of paradise for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The remarkable beachfront, combined with the resort's beautifully maintained gardens and pools, enhances the serene atmosphere.
Guests enjoy a generally positive dining experience, particularly during breakfast, which offers a varied and quality selection, though room for more diversity and improved handling of food intolerances is noted. The dinner experience is similarly well-received, with particular praise for the tasty dishes served by the pool, although there is a desire for more variety beyond Italian cuisine, especially for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Accommodations at Gecko Resort are appreciated for their cleanliness and spaciousness. The rooms offer a simple yet comfortable environment, and while some may find the furnishings sparse, the modern conveniences such as efficient air conditioning and reliable hot water are well-regarded. Despite some issues with WiFi connectivity in the rooms, the public areas provide adequate internet access for those needing to stay connected.
The resort's staff receives widespread acclaim for their friendliness and exceptional hospitality, contributing to a welcoming and enjoyable stay for guests. From managing requests to ensuring a pleasant dining experience, the attentive service is consistently highlighted.
While the sleeping experience varies with some guests finding the mattresses firmer than preferred, the well-maintained mosquito nets add an extra layer of comfort. Overall, Gecko Resort provides a tranquil escape with its idyllic beachside location, complemented by attentive service and a commitment to cleanliness and comfort.