The drive
La Campagne Tropicana is at Ikegun, about 45km east of Lekki Phase 1 down the Lekki-Epe Expressway past Awoyaya. Uber runs about $25 one way, or hire a driver for $70 for the day. Traffic is usually light heading east; you can be there in 75 minutes leaving Lekki at 9am.
At the resort
Day pass is $40 and includes access to the lagoon side, the ocean beach, hammocks, pool and the Ilaje-style thatched village. Camel and horse rides are $10, jet ski $30, and boat tours of the mangrove creek $20. Lunch at the beachfront restaurant is grilled fish, jollof and plantain for about $15. Come with cash, a swimsuit and a change of clothes. Overnight cabins start at $120 if you want to stay.
Weekends are busy with Lagos families, weekdays are quiet and better for a book-and-hammock day.
Good to know
How is La Campagne different from Elegushi?+
It is a proper resort: gated, landscaped, family-friendly and with a lagoon as well as the ocean. Elegushi is a public beach with horses and hawkers.
Can I go without booking?+
Yes, walk-in day passes are available, but weekends and public holidays sell out. Call ahead if you want a cabana.
Is the ocean swimmable there?+
The ocean has the same Atlantic pull as elsewhere on this coast. Stick to the lagoon and pool for actual swimming; use the ocean for wading.
Is it good for a couple's day out?+
Very. It is easily the most photogenic beach spot within an hour of Lekki, and the thatched pods on the lagoon are romantic.