Ghana's Best Beaches: A Travel Guide to the Gold Coast

May 30, 2025 0

Ghana, known as the “Gold Coast” due to its rich history in gold mining, is an increasingly popular destination for beach lovers and adventurous travelers. Along its coastline, this African country offers a variety of stunning beaches, each with its own charm and cultural appeal. Ghana’s Atlantic coast is a 550km (341-mile) stretch of low-lying, sandy shoreline known for its warm, tropical waters and swaying palms, not to mention a fabulous array of white-sand beaches.

Whether you want to bodyboard the waves or lounge beneath a thatched-roof palapa sipping from a freshly cut coconut, Ghana has beaches for every style. Ghana is blessed with beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches that offer visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. From bustling and popular destinations to hidden gems, the country has a range of beaches that cater to various preferences.

A note of caution: tides and currents are unpredictable along Ghana’s coastline, so be aware before you head into the water. Many of the beaches charge a small entry fee in Ghanian cedi, which typically converts to a couple US dollars, so plan accordingly.

Top Beaches in Ghana

1. Labadi Beach

Best beach for easy access from the capital

Ghana’s busiest beach, Labadi (also known as La Pleasure Beach) skirts the coastline of Accra, attracting a mix of residents and visitors drawn by its wide sands and proximity to downtown. Popular with both tourists and locals, Labadi Beach is known for its long strip of golden sand and swaying palm trees. Labadi Pleasure Beach - aka La Beach - is Accra’s go-to seaside escape, and one of the best places to visit in Ghana if you want sun, sand, and serious vibes. It’s loud, lively, and packed most weekends, but that’s part of the fun.

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During the day, throngs of sunbathers relax at umbrellaed beachfront tables, dining on plates of beef kebabs accompanied by bottles of Star beer outside lodgings like Labadi Beach Hotel and La Palm Royal Beach Resort. You can ride horseback along the shoreline, grab a cold drink at a beachfront bar, or just people-watch from the shade of a palm. Don’t miss the locals showing off their horseback tricks - it’s half beach day, half live show.

Kayayei (female porters) selling bags of water and snacks of plantains and fresh sugarcane are common along the beach, as are men offering horseback ride excursions through the sea’s shallow waters. Bonfires and the sounds of reggae and afrobeats take over Labadi at night. It’s one of Accra’s top beach areas for late-night parties with live music and plenty of bars serving ice-cold beers until dawn.

During the day, the beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, but as the sun sets, it transforms into a lively hub of activity. The beach is lined with a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs that offer everything from local music and dancing to international DJs and live bands. Visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine while listening to live music or dance the night away to a mix of Afrobeat, highlife, and other genres.

Be warned: it’s the most accessible beach in the country, which also makes it the busiest. Unfortunately, so much foot traffic results in plastic bottles and other trash dirtying up the sands and often floating in the waters.

2. Bojo Beach

Best beach for families

Accra’s traffic can be brutal, but it’s worth the drive to Bojo Beach, on the western side of greater Accra’s Densu Delta Protected Area, about a 27km (17-mile) drive from the city’s Kotoka International Airport. Bojo Beach in Accra is a beautiful spot that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and breathtaking sunsets you don’t want to miss out on. This private white-sand island beach, reachable across the Densu River via guided canoe (a ride that kids tend to love), is the perfect place to spread out and relax with family or friends, without having to deal with the constant stream of hawkers prevalent on many nearby beaches.

Hunker down under one of the thatched-roof palapas along the waterfront and take in the lines of fishermen procuring their daily catch or spend an afternoon soaking in the beach’s warm waters. Bojo lacks the crowds of bigger beaches, making it easier for parents to keep watch of children, and is generally clean and quiet, especially on weekdays. Food and drink are available onsite, which is good because you’re not allowed to bring your own. The sunsets here are mesmerizing.

3. Kokrobite Beach

Best beach for funky party atmosphere

A favorite among backpackers, weekend revelers and international volunteers, Kokrobite is home to warm waters, ample crowds, and plenty of lively bars, hotels and eateries. Kokrobite Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ghana and serves as a hub for tourists looking to sunbathe, swim and enjoy the nightlife scene. If you are someone who enjoys an upbeat scene near the ocean then Kokrobrite will be a perfect place for you.

Located near Accra, this vibrant beach town embraces the spirit of reggae music and Rastafarian culture. By day, lounge along the beach’s expansive white sands amid bright-painted, hand-carved fishing boats or peruse the many nearby souvenir kiosks after catching some shade beneath a coconut tree. Enjoy the festivities as bonfire celebrations and oceanfront parties light up the night. Live bands are the norm at night, but petty theft is also more commonplace, so it’s best to stick with friends.

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4. Butre Beach

Best beach for engaging in local culture and activities

A narrow and quiet palm-fringed stretch, Butre is a gem of a beach tucked away in Ghana’s Western Region, approximately 31km (19 miles) from the port city of Sekondi-Takoradi. Local resorts such as the Hideout Lodge do their part in keeping the beach clean, making it great for sunbathing. The nearby Ahanta village of Butre is home to Fort Batenstein, a Dutch-established former hilltop trading post that offers sweeping views of the Atlantic, as well as its own Town Tourism Development Committee.

You can book activities from moonlight sea turtle walks to dugout canoe excursions up the mangrove-lined Butre River, seeking out mudskippers, kingfishers and even crocodiles. This beach is the nearest dry land to the sea’s 0º latitude, longitude and altitude. The beach isn’t easy to get to - it’s reachable via a stretch of uneven roadway that can be quickly taken out by storms - but once arriving you’ll find a large swath of clean, undisturbed white sands with a few small and scattered coves upon which you can sit back, relax and savor breathtaking ocean views.

5. Cape Three Points

Best for eco-friendly travelers

For the intrepid traveller seeking seclusion and adventure, Cape Three Points is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Located at the southernmost point of Ghana, this beach offers secluded white sands and a sense of serenity that is off the beaten path. This beach is the nearest dry land to the sea’s 0º latitude, longitude and altitude.

Although rough waters keep most swimmers at bay, the waves are suitable for intermediate and experienced surfers. While the water may be rough for swimming, it presents excellent opportunities for thrilling water sports. Nearby Escape3Points Ecolodge can arrange a guided visit to the solar-powered Cape Three Points lighthouse or a stroll through the biodiverse Cape Three Points Forest Reserve, a coastal rainforest home to Diana monkeys, white-naped mangabeys and yellow-casqued hornbills. Embrace the spirit of eco-tourism and stay in one of the eco-lodges that are nestled in the surrounding natural beauty. Cape Three Points is a true haven for those seeking an eco-friendly and adventurous beach experience.

6. Cocoloco Beach

Best beach for wildlife

Groves of coconut trees surround this small, clean stretch of beach, one of the best in the Ada Foah area, approximately 110km (68 miles) east of Accra. Cocoloco sits along the Volta Estuary, where the freshwater Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean, making this beach a haven for resident and migratory birds, including gulls, egrets, and royal and black terns. Sea turtles also breed here, laying their eggs in November and December. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a manatee.

While the waters are good for swimming, the sea breezes make them especially geared toward watersports like windsurfing and sailing. On Wednesdays or Saturdays, head to the market at Ada-Foah for fresh clams, shrimp, crabs and several varieties of fish, which you can cook up over a bonfire in the evening. Amenities, though minimal, include backpacker-style bungalows, and camping is allowed here.

7. Busua Beach

Best Beach in Ghana for luxurious seafront surfing

Venturing to the Western Region, you'll find the breathtaking beauty of Busua Beach. Busua is a tropical paradise and arguably (rightly so in my opinion) the best beach in Ghana. With its thatch-roofed beach resorts, white sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees, this picturesque coastline is a paradise for beach lovers. The wide and sandy mile-long stretch is known for its large waves, which make it an ideal spot for surfers of all levels. Busua Beach is known to be one of the most notable surf spots in Ghana and perfect for any skill level.

Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a novice looking to catch some waves, Busua Beach offers excellent surfing conditions that cater to all skill levels. A few budget-friendly surfing schools can be found here, including Ahanta Waves Surf School & Camp, where you can rent a board, take a workshop or sign up for a full week of surf lessons. On the beach’s west side, Busua Lagoon acts as a barrier that helps keep the beach’s waters generally safe for swimming, as well. Dive into the inviting waters for a refreshing swim, or simply relax and soak up the sun while taking in the captivating natural beauty.

Bars and eateries offering catch-of-the-day seafood like lobster and tilapia dot the beach, which is popular among budget travelers who bed down at one of the local guesthouses, including the Alaska Beach Club, with its basic bungalows and shared facilities. For a more luxe stay, try the chalet-style rooms at nearby Busua Beach Resort. It’s well developed, for a remote town of its size, and due to the town being familiar with tourists locals are friendly and always helpful. Busua has super safe waters for swimming as well as water sports making it a great place to go with family, not to forget to mention the perfect surfing conditions for people of all abilities.

If you’re looking for the perfect tranquil beach destination then Busua Beach is a must! Choosing where to stay when there is so much variety in a place like Busua can be tricky, so let me tell you about my two top spots in Busua. Starting off with Ahanta Waves Eco Lodge. They offer an eco-friendly retreat through their building methods, energy efficient lighting and organic linens to name only a few.

The Laughing Goat Ghana is great and accommodates for every type of traveler! They have a big garden with a bar, kitchen and only three minutes walk to the beach, I can highly recommend.

Other Beaches to Explore

Ada Beach: Best for nature lovers. This lesser-known beach is teeming with sea birds and turtles, creating a serene environment for nature lovers. Whether you're into yachting, water sports, or sport fishing, Ada Beach offers a fantastic setting for beach goers.
Ankobra Beach: Best for hikes and birdwatching. Located in the Western Region, this beach offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Take leisurely strolls along the golden sands, explore nearby hiking trails, or try birdwatching.
Awangazule Beach: Best for secluded bliss. This lesser-known beach offers a serene and peaceful escape from the crowds. Enjoy the white sandy beaches and coconut trees at this tidy beachfront.
Sakumono Beach: Best for beach volleyball and more. Located near Accra, Sakumono Beach offers a convenient coastal retreat. This is one of the best beaches in Ghana for swimming and playing beach volleyball.

Coastal Towns and Activities

The coastal towns of Ghana are the perfect destinations for nature lovers, with a variety of cultural experiences, outdoor activities and nature reserves to explore. Visiting the coastal town of Elmina in Ghana provides a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s history, enjoy delicious seafood cuisine, and experience the vibrant local culture. Winneba is a stunning beach town with stunning stretches of white sand and azure waters, as well as opportunities to explore traditional Ghanaian culture, such as traditional drumming and dancing.

Surfing and Watersports

The east coast of Ghana offers an array of beach activities perfect for swimming and surfing enthusiasts. Butakapim Beach is a great destination for novice surfers as there are slower moving lefts and rights available here. Big Ada Beach is renowned for its excellent swell and is definitely an adrenaline-filled spot likely to get your heart racing.

Diving and Snorkeling

Ghana is a great destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts looking for unique and fascinating underwater experiences. One of the best spots for diving in Ghana is the underwater sculpture park located in Dixcove. It features an array of sculptures that offer a home for marine life and make for some spectacular underwater photography.

Another great spot is the Turtle Islands, which offer a chance to swim with the endangered green and olive ridley turtles. For snorkelling, the beaches at Busua and Cape Three Points are some of the best in Ghana. The clear, turquoise waters offer an opportunity to see a variety of marine life, including tropical fish and colorful coral reefs. The shallow waters also make it a great option for families with children.

In addition to snorkelling and diving, Ghana’s coastal towns also provide excellent opportunities for swimming and fishing. Boat trips can be arranged from towns such as Elmina or Busua, where you can take your pick from deep-sea fishing or go closer to shore in search of small fish like mackerel or cobia. Near Cape Coast, Kingfisher Beach offers shark fishing excursions and plenty of other fishing opportunities. Over in Keta, there are miles of chrome sand beaches which provide ideal conditions for swimming.

Cape Coast & Elmina: Cape Coast & Elmina are both very accessible beaches being a simple journey South from Kumasi, and 2 hours West of Accra, making it yet another popular seaside destination. You can choose to walk through the vibrant market of Elmina to witness the impressive array of fish, which is still caught using traditional methods. Do however be sure not go on a Tuesday, as there will be no fish to see! (It’s a taboo to fish on a Tuesday here).

As well as wondering the Cape Coast market and bright sunny streets there are also some interesting day trips to be done. Kakum National Park is home to the increadible canopy walk and something I would encourage everyone to do while in Ghana. You can also take a shorter journey to Hans Cottage and enjoy the variety of wildlife they have there ranging from Birds to Flowers to Crocodiles (that you can even touch!).

Oasis Beach Resort is in the middle of Cape Coast town has great beach access, within close proximity to the castle and has a wide range of rooms accommodating for all. If you’re looking to stay at a resort then take a look at Coconut Grove in Elmina, Its stunning! It’s important to remember Cape Coast holds huge cultural significance in Ghana and Africa as a whole. Today this fishing port is bright, friendly and artistic however it’s impossible to forget the heartbreaking history behind the former European Colonial city. I would personally advise a visit to Cape Coast Castle - a World Heritage Site - and Elmina Castle, if in the area.

Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re looking to experience the coastal region of Ghana, why not consider joining one of GVI’s volunteer programs in the seaside town of Kokrobite. With a range of programs with a focus on women’s empowerment, teaching English, gender equality and public health, you’re sure to find one that aligns with your interests and skills. Beyond the volunteer work, you will have ample time to explore the stunning beaches, savour the delectable local cuisine, and appreciate the lively music scene that characterises Ghanaian culture.

Accommodation and Food

There are a variety of accommodation options available to suit every budget and preference. Many visitors choose to stay in beachfront resorts and hotels that offer stunning views of the ocean and easy access to the sand and surf. These properties often feature amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, and bars, making them ideal for those who want to combine beach time with relaxation and entertainment.

For travellers who prefer a more rustic experience, there are also a number of beach huts and guesthouses available for rent. Eating out on the coast of Ghana is a foodie’s paradise! The coastal towns and villages offer a range of delicious seafood dishes that are fresh and tasty. From grilled or fried tilapia, red snapper, prawns, lobster, and crab, you’ll have a lot to choose from.

The seafood dishes are often served with spicy sauces and sides like jollof rice or yam, but if you’re not into seafood, there are still plenty of meat or vegetarian options available. Many food stalls and restaurants are located right on the beach, so you can enjoy your meal while admiring the stunning ocean view.

For a thatched roof bungalow stay: Lemon Beach Resort. For a laid-back stay directly on the beach: Ko-Sa Beach Resort. For a stay with beautiful (air-conditioned) rooms: The Royal Senchi Hotel and Resort.

Ghana’s coastline is situated in the Gulf of Guinea facing the Atlantic Ocean. We are so lucky to have a huge stretch of sandy beaches, tropical water, exceptional waves and much needed sea breeze!

LABADI BEACH: Labadi Beach is perfect for a day break from our capital city, Accra. Going only 8km from Accra you can set yourself up on the golden sand for a sunbathe, find yourself a bar close by for some cocktails, get involved in some classic beach sports or even take it to the next level with some extreme water sports! With activities and life booming over the weekends from bonfires to reggae music you can see why this beach gets It’s name ‘La Pleasure Beach’.

KOKROBITE: If you are someone who enjoys an upbeat scene near the ocean then Kokrobrite will be a perfect place for you. It is a favourite amongst weekenders, backpackers, locals and volunteers for activities such a surfing, dancing, art and music all within a short trotro ride from Accra. This being such a popular destination there is an expansive range of places for you to stay, but I can certainly recommend taking a look at Big Millies Backyard.

Beach Name	Best For	Description
Labadi Beach	Easy access from Accra, Lively atmosphere	Busiest beach in Ghana, known for its wide sands, proximity to downtown, and vibrant nightlife.
Bojo Beach	Families	Private white-sand island beach reachable by canoe, perfect for relaxation without the crowds.
Kokrobite Beach	Funky party atmosphere	Vibrant beach town known for reggae music, Rastafarian culture, and lively nightlife.
Butre Beach	Local culture and activities	Quiet palm-fringed beach offering activities like sea turtle walks and canoe excursions.
Cape Three Points	Eco-friendly travelers	Secluded white sands at the southernmost point of Ghana, offering eco-tourism and adventure.
Cocoloco Beach	Wildlife	Beach at the Volta Estuary, a haven for birds and sea turtles, ideal for windsurfing and sailing.
Busua Beach	Surfing	Tropical paradise with excellent surfing conditions for all skill levels and safe swimming waters.
Ada Beach	Nature lovers	Serene environment with sea birds and turtles, perfect for yachting, water sports, and sport fishing.
Ankobra Beach	Hiking and birdwatching	Tranquil atmosphere with opportunities for leisurely strolls, hiking, and birdwatching.
Awangazule Beach	Secluded bliss	Hidden gem offering a serene and peaceful escape from the crowds with white sandy beaches.
Sakumono Beach	Beach volleyball	Convenient coastal retreat near Accra, ideal for swimming and playing beach volleyball.