Tarkwa Bay sits inside the western breakwater of Lagos Harbour, which shelters the beach from the Atlantic's punishing swell. The result is the only genuinely calm swimming beach near the city — knee-to-chest-deep water, gentle waves, and a resident fishing community that rents beach umbrellas and grills freshly caught fish. It's a 15-20 minute speedboat ride from CMS, Tarzan Marina or Victoria Island jetties.
The bay draws a mix of weekend surfers riding the breakwater point, families teaching kids to swim, and day-trippers eating suya under thatched umbrellas. There are no roads, no cars and no ATMs, so bring cash for the boat, gate fee, umbrella hire, food and tips. It gets busiest on Sundays; go on a Saturday morning for space. Confirm the return boat time with your captain and arrive at the jetty by 17:15 — after dark, the harbour is off limits.
Horaires
- Mon-Sun 08:00-18:00 (last boat back 17:30)
Bon à savoir
How much is Tarkwa Bay?+
Return speedboat is about $15 per person, plus a $3 community gate fee and $5 for umbrella rental. Grilled fish costs $8-12.
Is there free entry to Tarkwa Bay?+
No — the fishing community charges a small landing fee and boats are always paid.
How long to spend at Tarkwa Bay?+
Full day. Boats start at 08:00 and the last return is strictly 17:30.
When is Tarkwa Bay closed?+
Beach is open daily, but boat crossings pause during severe weather or naval security operations.
Do I need to book the boat?+
Shared boats leave when full without booking; for weekends and groups, WhatsApp a Tarzan Marina captain a day ahead.
Where's the boat jetty?+
Tarzan Marina on Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, or the CMS Marina jetty on Lagos Island.