Lagos is an exciting coastal city with beautiful sandy shores, vibrant beach culture, relaxing spots, and lively social scenes. Even though Landmark Beach is permanently closed due to redevelopment, Lagos still has plenty of stunning beaches to explore, from party hubs to serene island escapes.
Here’s a curated list of the top 10 beaches in Lagos you should visit this year.
Beaches in Lagos
1. Tarkwa Bay Beach – Island Escape & Water Sports
Easily one of Lagos’s most popular beaches, Tarkwa Bay is a sheltered beach off the coast that you reach by boat or water taxi from Five Cowries or CMS. It’s known for calm waters, soft sand, and water activities like surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball.
Best for: Families, picnics, water sports, quiet beach days
2. Elegushi Beach – Lively & Social Beach Spot
Situated in Lekki, Elegushi Beach is one of Lagos’s most vibrant beach destinations. With beach bars, live DJs, horseback riding, and nightlife, this beach is perfect if you want sun, socializing, and entertainment.
Best for: Parties, sunsets, young crowd fun
3. Eleko Beach – Rustic & Relaxed Beach Vibes
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Located on the Lekki Peninsula, Eleko Beach offers a more laid-back experience with beach huts, fresh seafood, local vendors, and horseback riding along the shore. It’s a great choice for a chill beach day with a scenic local feel.
Best for: Quiet getaway, seafood, long beach walks
4. Ilashe Beach – Private, Serene Beach Oasis
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Ilashe Beach is a hidden paradise reachable by boat and perfect for those wanting a quieter escape. With rental cottages, private beachfront access, and calm surroundings, it’s ideal for a relaxed weekend retreat.
Best for: Peaceful escapes, romantic trips, small group getaways
5. Atican Beach Resort – Family-Friendly Fun
Located in the Ajah area, Atican Beach is a budget-friendly beach resort with good food, refreshing waters, beach volleyball, boat tours, and local vendors. It’s popular with families and groups.
Best for: Families, group outings, picnic days
6. Jet Beach – Urban Oasis by the Atlantic
Jet Beach is in Sangotedo and offers a mix of relaxation and fun with soft sands and calm waves. It’s a great urban beach if you don’t want to go too far from the city.
Best for: Couples, city visitors, relaxed beach days
7. Badagry Coconut Beach – Classic Coastal Beauty
Nestled in Badagry, this beach is famous for its coconut trees and relaxed seaside environment. It’s more rustic than city beaches but perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a less commercial beach experience.
Best for: Nature walks, picnics, scenic views
8. Wave Beach – Party & Entertainment Vibes
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Although not officially on every map, Wave Beach (along Oba Elegushi Road) combines social beach fun with family attractions and open spaces — a favorite for weekend visitors and casual beach days.
Best for: Hangouts with friends, casual beach fun
9. Iceland Beach Resort
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Located in Okun Ajah, Iceland Resort are lesser-known beaches appreciated by locals for easy access, relaxed vibes, and fewer crowds. They’re perfect if you want a more authentic coastal experience without the crowds.
Best for: Quiet relaxation, local culture, beach walks
10. Redline Leisure
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This Beach offers a sandy beach area with swimming, boating, and fishing, plus restaurants and bars around the water. It brings beach vibes inland and is great for family outings.
Best for: Families, water fun, boat rides
Tips for Visiting Beaches in Lagos
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Accessibility: Many beaches require a short boat ride (e.g., Tarkwa Bay), so plan ahead and secure water transport early.
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Safety: Always swim in safe areas, especially on ocean beaches. Bring sun protection and enough water.
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Costs: Most private beaches have entry fees that help maintain cleanliness and services.
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Timing: Weekends and holidays are busiest, visit early to enjoy space and less crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches in Lagos
1. What is the best beach to visit in Lagos?
It depends on what you are looking for. Tarkwa Bay is great for calm waters and water sports, Elegushi Beach is ideal for a lively social atmosphere, while Ilashe Beach is better for a quiet and private escape.
2. How do I get to Tarkwa Bay Beach?
Tarkwa Bay is only accessible by boat. You can take a boat ride from places like Five Cowries Terminal, CMS, or Marina. It is best to go early and use a trusted boat operator.
3. Are Lagos beaches safe for swimming?
Some beaches, like Tarkwa Bay, have calmer waters that are more suitable for swimming. However, ocean currents can be strong at many Lagos beaches, so always be cautious and follow local safety advice.
4. Do Lagos beaches charge entrance fees?
Yes, most beaches in Lagos charge an entrance fee. The fee usually covers access, seating areas, and basic facilities. Prices vary depending on the beach and the day of the week.
5. Which Lagos beach is best for parties and nightlife?
Elegushi Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife, music, and beachside bars, especially on weekends and public holidays.
6. Are there family friendly beaches in Lagos?
Yes, beaches like Atican Beach, Tarkwa Bay, and Lekki Leisure Lake are often considered more family friendly because they offer calmer environments and recreational activities.
7. What should I bring when visiting a beach in Lagos?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, light clothing, slippers, and some cash. It is also a good idea to carry drinking water and personal items like towels.
Final Thoughts
Lagos still offers plenty of amazing beach experiences, from lively social spots like Elegushi to serene escapes like Ilashe and Badagry Coconut Beach. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, food, or entertainment by the sea, there’s a beach in Lagos for you.
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