From bustling Lagos to the tranquil Bonny Island, this guide blends firsthand experience with up-to-date facts for every traveler’s needs.
Jump directly to Lagos | Port Harcourt | Calabar | Warri | Bonny Island | Badagry | Eket | Brass | Akassa | Oron
Lagos: Nigeria’s Vibrant Coastal Metropolis
Lagos is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s coastal tourism, with over 23 public beaches, vibrant nightlife, and dynamic urban culture. I’ve found Lagos both exhilarating and complex—offering endless options for every type of traveler.
Must-See and Do
- Elegushi Beach: Popular for jet skiing, live entertainment, and food stalls. Entry is about ₦2,000; jet skiing runs ₦5,000.
- Tarkwa Bay: A family-friendly spot accessible only by boat (₦1,000 fare). Great for surfing and swimming.
- Lekki Conservation Centre: Walk the longest African canopy walkway and enjoy nature escapes within the city limits.
- Nightlife: Victoria Island and Lekki Phase 1 have top clubs, bars, and music venues that truly come alive after dark.
Where to Stay
Quality short-let apartments in Victoria Island start around ₦30,000 per night, bookable on PropertyPro.ng. For a richer local experience, Lekki Phase 1 has cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels.
Safety and Getting Around
Lagos traffic is heavy—plan to travel off-peak and use reputable taxis, rideshare apps like Bolt, or hotel-arranged transport. Avoid traveling alone at night in less familiar areas. Always keep some cash handy, as street vendors prefer it over cards.
Budget & Tips
Expect to spend around ₦10,000 daily for moderate food, transport, and entry fees. A good rule: plan extra for nightlife and experiences like jet skiing. As one traveler noted, “Lagos is a cashless city but having cash in hand saved me from last-minute hassles.”
Port Harcourt: The Oil Capital with Unique Coastal Charms
Port Harcourt balances its industrial vigor with coastal leisure, offering Visitor hotspots with a cultural pulse and waterfront views. Safety is improving but caution is advised.
What to Explore
- Billy Ocean Beach: A lively beach with local food vendors and music.
- Port Harcourt Pleasure Park: Family-friendly with rides, picnic areas, and leisure activities.
Moving Around
Use registered taxis or rideshares like Uber and Bolt. Avoid traveling after dark outside well-known districts. Keep insect repellent handy as malaria is a risk, and use antimalarial medication as advised by health professionals.
Budget
Daily expenses for a visitor average ₦8,000 to ₦15,000, depending on dining and accommodation choices.
Calabar: Historic Elegance and Relaxed Seaside Vibes
Known as the ‘Cultural Capital of Nigeria,’ Calabar charms with its rich history and calming coastal resorts surrounded by nature.
Top Attractions
- Slave History Museum: A reflective visit into the region’s past with detailed exhibitions.
- Millennium Park: Beautifully landscaped with arcades and gardens—great for families.
- Tinapa Resort: Entertainment hub with shopping, gaming, and dining options.
- Tortuga Island Bar: Set in lush gardens, ideal for cocktails at sunset.
Where to Stay and Budget
Guests favor hotels near the Calabar Marina starting from ₦15,000 per night. A budget of ₦7,000–₦12,000 per day covers food, local transport, and entrance fees.
Warri: Gateway to Niger Delta Coastal Adventures
Warri presents a rich mix of oil industry culture, lively markets, and coastal excursions, with friendly locals welcoming visitors.
What to Experience
- Warri Beach: Offers serene water views and traditional fishing activities.
- Niger Delta Cultural Festival: Experience dance, music, and crafts reflective of the region’s heritage.
Travel and Stay
Transport mainly involves taxis and private vehicles. Budget accommodations begin at ₦10,000 nightly. Typical daily costs for food and activities hover around ₦6,000.
Bonny Island: Peaceful Coastal Escape Close to Port Harcourt
If you seek quiet beaches, fresh seafood, and a calm atmosphere, Bonny Island is a hidden gem just a boat ride away from Port Harcourt, perfect for decompressing.
Getting There and Things to Do
- Boat Trip: From Bille Jetty, Port Harcourt; takes 45-60 minutes with fares between ₦1,500-₦3,000. Boats don’t operate after 4 PM, so plan accordingly.
- Relax on the natural beaches, enjoy local fish pepper soup, and stroll under coconut palms.
Accommodation and Budget
Basic hotels and guesthouses range ₦10,000 to ₦25,000 per night. Cash is king here—mobile networks may be spotty. Plan accordingly.
Badagry: A Coastal Town Rich in History and Heritage
Badagry is an underrated coastal treasure with profound historical importance, from the slave trade era to its cultural landmarks.
Must-Visit Spots
- Point of No Return on Gberefu Island: Site of the infamous African slave departure point.
- Royal Palace of Mobee: Museum showcasing colonial and slave trade history.
- Agia Tree: Where Christmas was first celebrated in Nigeria (1842).
Where to Stay
Guest houses and budget hotels start from ₦8,000 per night. Local food markets offer fresh seafood at affordable prices.
Eket: Serenity and Culture by the Atlantic
Eket is noted for its peaceful beaches, cultural richness, and family-friendly vibe, making it an ideal coastal retreat.
Top Attractions
- Eket Beach: A tranquil spot for sunbathing and swimming along the Atlantic coast.
- Eket Cultural Centre: Dive into local history and traditions with exhibits and performances.
- Eket Recreation Park: Great for families with playgrounds and picnic spaces.
Accommodation & Cost
Hotels with family amenities range from ₦12,000 to ₦20,000 per night. Daily expenses for visitors are around ₦6,000 to ₦10,000 depending on activities.
Brass: The Bayelsa Town Known for Natural Beauty and Oil Exploration
Brass offers a mix of natural beaches, historical colonial architecture, and insights into Nigeria’s oil industry.
Things to See and Do
- Okpoama Beach: A peaceful Atlantic Ocean beach perfect for relaxation.
- Agip Oil Terminal: See oil production activities up close (respect access policies).
- Old Consulate Buildings: Historical architecture from colonial Nigeria.
Travel & Stay
Accessible by Bayelsa Airport, then bus or taxi. Accommodation options include the 1 Miti Soki Hotel and Blessvera Guest House starting at ₦10,000 per night. Local eateries offer tasty seafood dishes for around ₦1,000–₦2,000.
Akassa: Remote Eco-Tourism and History in Bayelsa
Akassa is relatively untouched, offering pristine mangrove wetlands and cultural heritage sites, ideal for eco-tourists and adventurers.
Experiences & Tips
- Mangrove Tours: Guided boat tours showcase diverse ecosystems and birdlife.
- Historical Ruins: Learn about local history and colonial-era remnants.
Travel Practicalities
Travel here requires coordination via ferry or boat from Yenagoa or Brass. Bring cash, as facilities are limited, and consider hiring local guides for ease and safety.
Oron: Coastal Beauty Blend of History and Modernity
Oron features sandy beaches, bustling markets, and vibrant local life with access to nearby islands and coastal waters.
Highlights
- Oron Beach: Perfect for relaxation and local seafood festivals.
- Island Hopping: Nearby islands accessible for day trips with boat tours.
Staying and Traveling
Nightly hotel rates start at ₦10,000. Local transport includes motorbikes (okadas) and boats. Beware occasional security advisories; always check recent updates.
Essential Travel Tips for Nigeria’s Coastal Cities
- Always use registered taxis or reliable ride-hailing apps — safety first.
- Carry some cash, especially in smaller towns where card usage is limited.
- Avoid night travel in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
- Bring insect repellent and carry antimalarial medication if advised.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in smaller communities.
- Keep emergency contacts handy, including local police and hospital numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nigeria’s Coastal Cities
What is the best time to visit Nigeria’s coastal cities?
The dry season, from November to March, is ideal for beach activities and travel due to lower rainfall and comfortable temperatures.
Are coastal cities in Nigeria safe for tourists?
Popular coastal cities like Lagos and Calabar have safe tourist areas with proper precautions. Avoid unfamiliar locations after dark and use trusted transportation.
How can I get around within these cities?
Use credible taxis, ride-hailing apps such as Bolt and Uber, or hotel-arranged transport. Walking and motorbike taxis are common but require caution.
What is the typical budget for a traveler?
A budget traveler can expect daily expenses ranging from ₦6,000 to ₦15,000 depending on the city, accommodation, and activities.
