Everything You Need To Know: Tarkwa Bay Beach

The colorful Tarkwa Bay beach is one of the popular relaxation destinations Lagos can proudly boast of. Located off the coastline of Victoria Island, the beach is a haven of bliss and mesmerizing ambiance.

However, it is not usually at the top of the list of itinerary of tourists and fun seekers who intend to explore the center of excellence. This is because it sits several kilometers offshore from the bustling and busy Lagos Island.

While cruising to the island on a boat, you will be treated to amazing views of popular spots in Lagos such as the Radisson Blu hotel, the Lagos Yacht Club, the Lagos harbor and straight head on into the open ocean.

In this article, I have compiled everything you need to know about the island, should you plan to visit.

How to Get To Tarkwa Bay

Tarkwa bay is only accessible by boat and the ride usually takes about approximately twenty minutes. Your transportation options ranges between getting a boat ride from Mekwe Jetty, Tarzan Marine and Marina. This largely depends on which part of Lagos Island you’re linking from.

From Marina (CMS), you can get a speedboat to the beach. The cost of the ride, to and fro, should be in the range of 1,000 to 1,500 naira per person.

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At Victoria Island, you can get a speedboat from the Tarzan Marine Services. This should ease your journey instead of coming to Marina. The cost of the ride to Tarkwa Bay is around 2,000 – to and fro. And it is just about 25 minutes or less.

The Mekwe Jetty is closer to Bonny Camp, it is easier to locate for those going to Tarkwa Bay from this axis. The boat ride to the beach is about 15 minutes and should be in the range of 1,000 to 1,500 naira.

How Much Is the Gate Fee at Tarkwa Bay

The entrance fee at Tarkwa Bay is just a token 200 naira, although you will still be required to pay for the space you plan to occupy.

Chairs at the beach cost N300 each, whist a table goes for N100. Should you decide that you would like to rent a tent, it costs only N300. All in all, a total of 1,000 naira is enough to cover your expenses at Tarkwa Bay, excluding feeding and other activities.

When is the Best Time to Visit Tarkwa Bay

When is the actual best time to visit Tarkwa Bay? The truth is, there is no fixed best time to visit. That is, no matter when you choose to visit, you will always have fun. Tarkwa Bay is open all days of the week and year. But there is always a trick to get the best out of every visit.

The best time to visit Tarkwa Bay is during the off peak season when the island is likely to be less crowded and inexpensive. Avoid festive seasons or holiday as there is higher probability it would be filled be people, and a general hike in prices of consumables.

You should also avoid visiting during the rainy seasons between April and July. Generally, the most suitable time to visit the beach and almost have it to yourself is during the week.

And lastly, in order to have the best beach experience, you need to be time conscious. That is, when do you get to Tarkwa Bay and when do you leave? Going early enough is always the best as there are specific times to when the last speedboat leaves. For instance, the last speedboat leaves to the Marina by 6.00 pm.

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Fun Activities to Do At Tarkwa Bay

The list of fun activities to engage yourself in at the beach is endless, and you only have to make your pick. With a splendid ambience to boast of, Tarkwa bay resort is a perfect place to relax and have fun

Relax: It is not unusual to see people come to the beach in order to relax. It is definitely one of the places in Lagos where you can go and forget all about the city’s chaos.

The beach is definitely one of the best relaxation spots in Lagos. You can simply rent a tent and relax by listening to the ocean waves or watch people play in the water.

Surfing: If you are the water sports enthusiast, congrats. You can decide to swim or surf.

Sightseeing & Photography: If you are fascinated by ships, a fun thing to do is to take a walk along the beach coast to view massive cargo ships and several other smaller ones passing by. Also there are some rusty wrecked ships which are very good for photography.

About 30 minutes’ walk from the beach is the 110-year old Lagos harbor lighthouse located at a nearby beach called Lighthouse beach.

Binging on Sea Food: Treat yourself and friends to a fresh fish barbeque, all you have to do is to spot a fisherman returning from the Ocean, buy as many as you want, which will immediately be processed into a barbeque.

Beach Sports: You can also challenge your friends to a game of beach soccer or volleyball.

Important Tips to Remember When Planning Your Trip to Tarkwa Bay

When planning your visit to Tarkwa Bay, heeding these tips will help ensure you have an unforgettable trip.

Go with a waterproof beach bag

Since you will encounter water most of the time you spend at Tarkwa Bay, it is advisable to carry a waterproof beach bag. This will prevent water from finding its way into your bag and probably damaging your valuables.

Wear your swimsuit before leaving your house

Go prepared with your swimming suit on because the beach lacks a changing room facility or toilet.

Go with your food and drinks

To help you cut cost and save money, it is better you go with your own foods and drinks. You do not need to patronize the vendors at the beach because it may be expensive.

Make sure you establish the price of anything and everything beforehand. It’s custom to haggle, so know that they may try to overcharge you.

Pack only essentials to prevent theft

Like some public beaches in Lagos, there are thugs and urchins at Tarkwa Bay. So, pack as light as possible so that you do not give them the chance to steal your valuables. Even if you go with a whole lot, ensure that someone is on hand to watch them.

Do not forget your towels, sunscreen, floating pads, and balls. They are accessories to enhance and make your trip more enthralling.

Have fun!

Written by: Ayeotan Shola