TL;DR
Eleko Beach is a serene, private beach located about 60 km east of Lagos Island on the Lekki Peninsula. Known for its clean waters, peaceful vibe, beach huts for rent, horseback riding, and local crafts market, it is perfect for visitors seeking tranquility away from Lagos’ bustling city life.
Expect a modest entrance fee, options to bring your own food, and picturesque seascapes ideal for swimming, picnics, and relaxation.
Jump directly to detailed travel tips and visitor information below
Eleko Beach, Lagos
Eleko Beach is a hidden gem within the Lekki Peninsula, about a 60-kilometer drive east of Lagos Island in Nigeria. A private beach opened in 1989, Eleko stands out with its idyllic, clean environment and gentler crowd compared to other public beaches in Lagos. It offers a refreshing alternative for visitors seeking calmness and nature’s beauty without the typical urban hustle and bustle.
The beach is located in the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, within a small fishing community with rich cultural vibes. Eleko Beach’s unique assets include rentable beach huts providing shade and comfort, horseback riding along the shore, and a local crafts market selling arts and souvenirs. Unlike the party-centric Elegushi or Tarkwa Bay beaches, Eleko is ideal for peaceful retreats, quality family time, and nature lovers.
What to Expect: Atmosphere, Activities & Amenities
Calm and Clean Environment
The beach is known for its cleanliness and peacefulness. Many visitors appreciate the quieter ambiance, making it perfect for reading, sunbathing, and unwinding.
Beach Huts You Can Rent
Visitors can rent modest beach huts for the day to shelter from the sun. Many of these huts come with an option to have local staff prepare barbecued meals, so you can enjoy a full picnic experience on-site.
Horse Riding and More
Eleko offers guided horseback riding sessions along the shoreline, giving you a unique way to explore the beach and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.
Local Crafts Market
A small market near the beach sells handmade crafts, jewelry, and artworks created by local artisans. It’s a perfect spot to pick unique souvenirs or gifts and support the local community.
Plan Your Trip to Eleko Beach, Lagos
Getting to Eleko Beach requires some planning since it’s located a fair distance from central Lagos. Here’s how to streamline your visit:
How to Get There
Eleko Beach is approximately 60 kilometers east of Lagos Island. The most reliable way to get there is by car or taxi from the city. You can book a private ride or use ride-hailing apps that operate in Lagos.
When driving, expect about a 1.5- to 2-hour trip depending on traffic. The route follows the Lagos-Epe Expressway and leads through the Lekki Peninsula down to the beach road entrance.
Entrance Fees & Parking
A nominal entrance fee of about 500 Nigerian Naira per person is required to access the beach. Parking also costs roughly 500 Naira, though fees may vary depending on the season or time of day.
Best Time to Visit
Eleko Beach is open year-round, but the best months to visit are during the dry season from November to March, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. Weekdays are quieter, while weekends tend to attract more Lagosians.
Can You Bring Food to Eleko Beach?
Yes, visitors often bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the beach. While there are some options for food and barbecue hut rentals where local cooks can prepare meals, it’s fully acceptable and common to picnic with your own packed items. Just be sure to clean up after yourself to keep the beach pristine.
Essential Tips & Visitor Insights
Safety and Cleanliness
I’ve always found Eleko Beach exceptionally clean for Lagos standards. The private management helps maintain the environment, making it family-friendly. Still, keep an eye on belongings and beach equipment.
Supporting Local Economy
When local kids approach to sell souvenirs or handmade crafts, it’s a nice gesture to support them if you feel comfortable. It enriches your experience and helps the community.
What to Pack
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, cash for entrance and parking, insect repellent, a towel, your own snacks if preferred, and a camera to capture the stunning seascapes. If you plan to ride horses, wear comfortable clothing.
Connectivity & Facilities
Mobile network coverage is generally okay. Public restrooms and changing areas are available but basic, so plan accordingly.
Things to Do Near Eleko Beach
If you’re exploring the Lekki Peninsula, consider visiting:
- Nigeria Conservation Foundation Wetlands: A short drive away, great for wildlife viewing and nature walks.
- Local Art Galleries: Nearby you can visit galleries featuring contemporary Nigerian art, including works by celebrated artists like Nike Okundaye.
- Other Beaches: Tarkwa Bay and Elegushi Beach are popular alternatives if you want a livelier beach experience.
Location & Direction Map
Use the map below for exact location and directions to Eleko BBeach,Lagos:
Visitor Ratings and Reviews
On popular travel platforms, Eleko Beach maintains a solid reputation for serenity and natural beauty. Recent visitor ratings hover around 3.5 to 4 stars out of 5, often praised for the peaceful environment and authentic local experiences. Here’s a sample review from a recent visitor:
“Eleko Beach was exactly the tranquil getaway I hoped for away from Lagos’ busy city life. The clean water and quiet made swimming refreshing, and the horseback ride along the shore was unforgettable. A perfect day beach trip!” — Supejoskincare, 5/5 review on Trip.com
Eleko Beach Visitor Guide & FAQs
Can I take food to Eleko Beach?
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is allowed and common. There are also options to rent beach huts where local cooks can prepare barbecue meals, but you don’t have to rely on their services if you prefer your own picnic.
Is Eleko Beach suitable for families?
Absolutely. The calm waters and clean environment make it a family-friendly spot. Children can enjoy the sands and safe swimming areas, while adults relax in the huts or try horseback riding.
What is the best way to get to Eleko Beach from Lagos?
The most practical way is by taxi or private car. Public transport options are limited, so booking a ride through Lagos ride-hailing apps or hiring a private driver is advised to ensure a comfortable trip.
Are there accommodation options near Eleko Beach?
Eleko Beach is primarily a day-trip destination. However, nearby Lekki offers guest houses, hotels, and resorts for overnight stays if you want to extend your visit. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during holiday periods.
Are there water sports at Eleko Beach?
While not as commercialized for water sports as other Lagos beaches, Eleko offers swimming and horse riding. For more adventurous water activities like jet skiing, nearby beaches like Elegushi are better options.
Final Tips for an Amazing Visit
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details.
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