Top 7 gorgeous beaches in Ghana

Tucked underneath the curve of the elephant’s ear of Africa, Ghana has a spectacular stretch of coastline. Extending 560km (350 miles), it is scattered with beautiful sandy beaches shaded by swaying palm trees and washed by South Atlantic waves. From the powder-soft sands of the lively Labadi Beach to the powerful surfing waves of Kokrobite Beach, Ghana’s beaches have certainly earned their place on the tourist map of Africa’s idyllic coastal destinations. Here, with the help of our local experts, we’ve picked out our top seven gorgeous beaches in Ghana.

Ankobra Beach

Near Ankobra River and Axim, Ankobra Beach is the perfect place to unwind. The golden sand is soft – perfect for sunbathing – with swaying coconut trees providing pleasant shade when needed and a warm sea to bathe in.

There are also plenty of activities to partake in for those worried that beach lounging could become monotonous. Head into the mangrove forest on a tour to spot exotic bird species and pay a visit to the local Ankobra community, climb a nearby “beach mountain” for gorgeous views or try your hand at local crafts such as jewelry-making or drumming… all in all, you’ll be hard put to find a better beach to chill out at in Ghana.

Labadi Beach

This beach is less a relaxing haven and more of a social hub, but is no less wonderful for it. Located in Ghana’s capital, Accra, it is one of the country’s most popular beaches and is frequented by both locals and travelers who come to enjoy parties around the bonfires in the evening and regular performances from live bands at any time of the day or night.

Accra itself is a fascinating  place and it’s well worth spending a couple of days there when you visit Ghana. The old colonial neighborhoods of Jamestown and Ushertown make for wonderful wanders – climb the Jamestown lighthouse, visit the old fishing harbor and perhaps visit the resting place of Ghana’s first president.

Axim Beach

Fringing the edge of the Amansuri Conservation Area  – an expanse of swamps, streams, mangrove forests and lagoons thronging with nature – Axim beach is another long stretch of palm-fringed paradise. Stay in an eco-lodge and relax by the sea, then set out on an array of adventures. From hiking through the tropical Ankasa Forest Reserve to paying a visit to the Nzulezo stilt village, there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Although there is a small wave in the bay, the waters at Axim Beach are much calmer than those at other beaches in Ghana, with fewer strong currents. This makes swimming and surfing more manageable for novices.

Cape Coast and Elmina Beach

For a bit of beach relaxation with a dose of history, head to the Cape Coast. Here you will find a beautiful beach situated conveniently near several lovely hotels but also the Cape Coast Castle, a relic of the slave trade that ravaged Ghana for centuries.

Built by the Swedes, then held temporarily by the Dutch and the Danish before being developed into the impressive structure that remains today by the British in 1665, it is a stark reminder of the impact of the slave trade. It was one of the largest slave-holding sites in the world and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring the fortress, shake off any solemnity and head back to your hotel and the balmy shores at Elmina Beach to relax.

Elmina Beach is located close to the castle, and offers a relaxing seaside atmosphere with a beach lined with bars and restaurants. Flanked by palm trees and dotted with small bays where waves lap at the foot of colorful fishing boats, Elmina is undeniably authentic. Not only is this a scenic and tranquil beach, but it’s also historically significant.

Cape Three Points

Cape Three Points is a peninsula in the west of Ghana sometimes known as “the land nearest nowhere” because of its location – as the southernmost point in the country it is the nearest dry land to 0 latitude, longitude and altitude. It is very beautiful in its remoteness.

Two beaches span either side of the peninsula, one boasting an eco-hotel, and they both provide ample space for utter relaxation on the stunning Ghanaian coast. Beaching isn’t the only top activity at Cape Three Points. Hiking and history meanders are also a major point of interest in this area. While you are there, set out to find the ruins of the first Cape Three Points lighthouse; for expansive views, climb the larger, improved one that still glimmers on the headland today. It’s here that you can enjoy breathtaking views of Ghana’s verdant coastal rainforest area, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a pod of migratory whales or dolphins in the ocean.

Kokrobite Beach

Ghana’s wonderfully bohemian and laid-back Kokrobite Beach epitomizes that “chilled out” vibe synonymous with carefree beachside living. This is largely due to its vibrant Rastafarian culture, relaxed surfing crowds, and buzzing nightlife.

If surfing is a major drawcard, you’ll be pleased to know that Kokrobrite offers a consistently rideable beach break wave. For the optimum surfing conditions, you may want to head there during Ghana’s spring, which is from March to May. Island-themed surf schools and board hire shops dot the beachfront, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to hone your surfing skills.

Foodies can delight in knowing that tasty local street food is served on the beachfront too, comprising mainly different kinds of seafood cooked in traditional Ghanian style. Sample everything from smoked fish to freshly caught lobster cooked in salt water.

Conveniently located a mere 30km from Accra, Kokrobite is popular with locals and tourists alike, and worth the trip if you need some beach time but don’t mind the crowds.

Bojo Beach

Bojo Beach is an exclusive and somewhat hidden beach destination in Ghana. Situated at the meeting point of the Densu River and the Atlantic Ocean, it is separated from the mainland by a tranquil lagoon. This exotic and picturesque destination is accessible only by boat across the Densu River, though the more adventurous can opt to canoe across. Certainly one of the most fun-to-access beaches in Ghana! The locals describe Bojo Beach as the pinnacle of aesthetic beauty – a secluded spot offering superlative ocean and river views.

Bojo caters to a luxury crowd who enjoy fine dining, golfing, and sun-soaked days on golden sandy beaches. It’s also a popular spot for families, offering a peaceful and quiet retreat with pristine, safe swimming waters. An impressive beach infrastructure, featuring numerous stationary thatched umbrellas with seating, provides a fantastic escape from the heat. Additionally, chairs, tables, and mobile umbrellas are available for rent.

Make it happen

If you would like to explore the wonderful beaches in Ghana (and perhaps even further afield to Togo and Benin!) then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our fantastic local experts. They can plan your perfect tailor-made vacation and factor in plenty of beach time as well as lots of great experiences in this gorgeous area of West Africa.