Top Beaches to Visit in Ghana: A Traveler’s Guide

 Ghana is blessed with a stunning coastline that stretches over 500 kilometers (310 Miles), offering some of the best beaches in West Africa. Whether you’re looking for vibrant spots filled with local life or peaceful escapes, Ghana’s beaches have something for everyone. Below are the top beaches to visit, including nearby attractions, costs, and the best times to explore these coastal gems.

1. Labadi Beach (La Pleasure Beach) – Accra

Location: Labadi, Accra
Best For: A lively atmosphere with music, food, and local culture

Labadi Beach is arguably the most famous beach in Ghana and is a great spot for travelers seeking vibrant energy. On weekends, the beach comes alive with music, dancing, and vendors selling everything from grilled kebabs to local arts and crafts. If you’re lucky, you may catch a live band or a cultural performance.

Nearby Attractions:

• Independence Square: Just a 15-minute drive from Labadi Beach, this iconic square is a symbol of Ghana’s independence and a must-see.
• Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum: A short trip from the beach, this museum and park honor Ghana’s first president.

Cost: Entry fees to Labadi Beach are around 10-15 GHC (less than $2), but prices can vary during holidays or special events. Food and drinks from vendors cost extra.

Best Time to Visit: Dry season (October to March) for good weather, or weekends if you want to experience the vibrant local culture.

2. Kokrobite Beach – Greater Accra Region

Location: Kokrobite, about 30 km west of Accra
Best For: Backpackers, surfers, and those seeking a laid-back vibe

Kokrobite Beach is a favorite for travelers looking for a more relaxed beach experience. This is a haven for surfers and backpackers, with many small guesthouses and a reggae scene. Big Milly’s Backyard is one of the most popular spots in Kokrobite, offering accommodation, food, and live music.

Nearby Attractions:

• Bojo Beach: A peaceful and secluded beach close to Kokrobite.
• Academy of African Music and Arts (AAMA): Learn about African rhythms and musical instruments at this local center.

Cost: Many parts of Kokrobite Beach are free, but parking near the beach or staying at nearby resorts can cost around 20-50 GHC ($2-$5).

Best Time to Visit: Visit during weekdays for a peaceful experience, or on weekends for music festivals and events.

3. Bojo Beach – Greater Accra Region

Location: Near Kokrobite, 20 km from Accra
Best For: Seclusion, clean surroundings, and families

Bojo Beach is a private and clean beach, offering a more serene experience compared to the busy beaches in Accra. Accessible only by a short canoe ride across the Densu River, Bojo is ideal for families and those looking for some peace and quiet.

Nearby Attractions:

• Weija Lake: Just a short distance away, enjoy fishing or birdwatching around this beautiful lake.
• Densu River: Perfect for kayaking or just enjoying a boat ride.

Cost: Entry to Bojo Beach costs about 20 GHC ($2.50) per person, and canoe rides are included in the price.

Best Time to Visit: Between November and March, during the dry season for clear skies and calm waters.

4. Ankobra Beach – Western Region

Location: Near Axim, Western Ghana
Best For: Eco-friendly tourism and tranquility

Ankobra Beach is an eco-tourist’s dream. It’s a quieter, off-the-beaten-path option for travelers who want to experience Ghana’s natural beauty away from the crowds. The eco-lodge here promotes sustainable tourism, and the beach is pristine with clear waters and clean sands.

Nearby Attractions:

• Fort St. Anthony: A historical fort in Axim, dating back to the 1500s, is nearby and worth a visit.
• Nzulezo Stilt Village: Located on Lake Tadane, this unique village on stilts is a cultural experience like no other.

Cost: Lodging at the Ankobra Beach Resort can range from 250-400 GHC ($25-$40) per night. Day visits are usually free.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for the best weather conditions.

5. Busua Beach – Western Region

Location: Busua, near Takoradi
Best For: Surfing, relaxation, and beach resorts

Busua Beach is the go-to destination for surfers in Ghana. The calm waves and wide stretch of sandy beach make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers. It’s also a great place for relaxation, with many beachside resorts and restaurants offering fresh seafood.

Nearby Attractions:

• Fort Metal Cross: Located in nearby Dixcove, this historic fort offers panoramic views of the coastline.
• Butre Beach and Fort Batenstein: A quiet beach just a few kilometers from Busua, ideal for history buffs.

Cost: Many areas of Busua Beach are free, but surfboard rentals range from 50-100 GHC ($5-$10) per day.

Best Time to Visit: Between October and March, when the weather is most favorable for surfing.

6. Ada Foah Beach – Greater Accra Region

Location: Ada Foah, about 100 km east of Accra
Best For: Water sports, island hopping, and river cruises

Ada Foah Beach sits where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering an ideal location for water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and windsurfing. The area also has several small islands that can be explored by boat.

Nearby Attractions:

• Ada Estuary: A stunning natural reserve where you can spot birds, mangroves, and other wildlife.
• Keta Lagoon: Explore this saltwater lagoon with a rich history and diverse birdlife.

Cost: Entry to the beach is often free, but boat rides or water sports can cost 100-200 GHC ($10-$20).

Best Time to Visit: December to February is perfect for outdoor activities, with lower rainfall and calmer waters.

Cost of Travel to Ghana’s Beaches

Traveling to these beaches varies depending on where you’re staying. A taxi from central Accra to Labadi Beach can cost around 20-30 GHC ($2-$3). For trips to beaches like Kokrobite or Ada Foah, you can expect to pay around 50-100 GHC ($5-$10) by private taxi. Public transport is also available, with buses (trotros) offering cheaper options for as little as 5-10 GHC ($0.50-$1.50), though they take longer and are often crowded.

Best Time to Visit Ghana’s Beaches

The best time to visit Ghana’s beaches is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather, with clear skies and calm seas, ideal for beach activities. Avoid the rainy season (April to September), when beaches can be less accessible, and water activities may be limited.

Ghana’s beaches are more than just sun and sand—they’re gateways to history, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re a surfer, history enthusiast, or just looking to relax by the ocean, the beaches of Ghana provide an unforgettable experience