Tarkwa Bay is a beach island in Lagos, the ultimate getaway destination from all the noise and bustling of the city. It is popular among surfers, photographers, and Lagosians looking to unwind without the noise of the city.
Unlike other crowded beaches, Tarkwa Bay is a car-free island. White sand, gentle waves, and a laid-back vibe are the vibes you get. The island also has a deep and rich history, as a previous colonial outpost, however, it now has a mix of fishing communities, beach bars, and hidden gems like Nigeria’s only surfing school.
Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, a group of friends planning a beach day, or a couple looking for a romantic sunset spot, Tarkwa Bay offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and local culture.
This guide covers everything you need, from how to get there, to the best activities, to where to stay, to the budget breakdown, and local secrets you should know.
How to get there
Tarkwa Bay is only accessible by boat, whether public or private chartered boats.
To use the public boats
The public boat is more affordable. It works best if you are going for the day and don’t plan to spend the night. The public ferries stop running around 6 PM, make sure not to miss the last boat!
To board the public speedboats, there are two known boarding points.
- CMS Marina
- Mekwe Jetty (Bonny Camp)
Cost: ₦2,000–₦5,000 per person
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
To use the private boats
The private boats are convenient for flexibility and comfort, and are a better option for large groups or overnight stays. Boarding a boat from the Tarzan jetty is a great option, with different sizes of boats, tailored to meet your needs. It’s located beside the Lagos Oriental Hotel.
Cost: ₦25,000
Arrival Tips
Expect to pay an entrance fee of ₦500 per person at the beach gate. Also, avoid “helpers” who demand tips for carrying bags as much as you can, but if unavoidable, the cost should be around ₦300–₦500.
Top Things To Do
- Surfing: The gentle waves make it perfect for beginners. Rent a board, or take lessons from a local surf instructor.
- Jet skiing/Kayaking– Rentals cost ₦10,000–₦15,000 per hour.
- Boogie Boarding– Rent a boogie board from the locals.
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding– Rentals cost ₦10,000–₦15,000 per hour.
- Cliff Diving– For thrill-seekers (ask locals for safe spots)
- Swimming– Make sure to be conscious of the water height.
- Lighthouse beach– A 10-minute walk from Tarkwa Bay, quieter and cleaner, but swimming isn’t allowed due to strong currents
- Sunset Views– Take the best photos near the rocky outcrops
- Horseback Riding– Sunrise and sunset rides along the shore cost ₦5,000 per hour
- Beach Bonfires– At night, locals light fires and play music, join the party!
Food and Drinks
You get items like Fresh coconut for ₦500, grilled fish for ₦3,000, and suya for ₦1,500, but it’s advisable to bring food and drinks because the food choices on the beach are limited. You can also choose to eat food sold on the beach at the Tarkwa Bay Café.
Where to Stay
1. Jaybee Beach Camp: costs ₦42,000/night for a basic room (no breakfast). Perks are an ocean-view café, pool, Wifi, and horseback riding.
2. Lighthouse Beach House: All-inclusive but pricier (₦75,000+ per night)
3. Camping: Bring a tent or rent one for ₦3,000–₦5,000.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Expense | Cost (₦) |
| Boat ride (public) | 2,000–5,000 |
| Entry fee | 500 |
| Tent/chair rental | 1,000–2,500 |
| Food/drinks | 3,000–10,000 |
| Activities (surfing, etc.) | 5,000–15,000 |
| Total (day trip) | ₦10,000–₦30,000 |
Overnight stays add ₦21,000–₦75,000 for lodging.
Pro Packing List
- High SPF sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Waterproof phone case
- Comfortable sandals
Smart Traveler Secrets
The early bird gets the best beach spot at Tarkwa Bay. Aim for weekdays when you might have entire stretches of sand to yourself. If you’re planning ahead, November through March offers the perfect combination of sunny skies and comfortable temperatures.
Don’t forget to bring plenty of cash – those tempting coconut vendors and water sports operators don’t take cards, and there’s trouble with the service for making bank transfers. A little friendly negotiation is expected when renting chairs or booking activities, so don’t be afraid to politely discuss prices.
To Make the Most of It
Start your day with a surfing lesson from local instructors. The gentle waves make Tarkwa Bay ideal for beginners. As the sun climbs higher, you could explore the hidden corners of the island or simply relax in your perfect spot on the sand. When hunger strikes, follow the delicious smoky aromas to grills on the beachside serving fresh seafood and spicy suya.
As the evening approaches, join one of the spontaneous bonfire gatherings where visitors and locals share stories under the stars and moonlight. This transition from peaceful daytime retreat to lively nighttime gathering captures the true spirit and energy of Tarkwa Bay.
Making Memories at Tarkwa Bay
As your boat pulls away from the busy shores of Lagos, you’ll immediately feel the city’s stress melt away. Tarkwa Bay isn’t just another beach destination, it’s where Lagos shows its quieter, more peaceful side while keeping all the energy that makes the city special.
There’s something special about watching the sunset over the Atlantic from the island paradise that is Tarkwa Bay. The combination of natural beauty, serenity, friendly locals, and just enough Lagos energy creates memories that linger long after your boat ride back to the city.
With your swimsuit packed and these tips in mind, you’re ready to discover why Tarkwa Bay holds such a special place in the hearts of those who visit. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, every visit reveals new reasons to love this island getaway.
We’d love to hear about your Tarkwa Bay experiences! Share your favorite moments or secret spots in the comments below.
