Tarkwa Bay

Tarkwa Bay is an island beach community near Lagos Harbour.

Last checked: 25 Oct 2026

Sandy beach front at Tarkwa Bay, Lagos, with driftwood logs, a red kayak, thatched shelters and high-rise towers across the water — Photo: Liesel81, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped and compressed.

Quick facts

State: Lagos State
Category: Beaches
Location: island near Lagos Harbour
Access: by boat only
Reported departure points: Marina, CMS and Victoria Island jetties
Reported boat time: about 15 to 20 minutes

Tarkwa Bay is an island beach community near Lagos Harbour. It is reachable only by boat and is known for calm water, surfing lessons and a relaxed atmosphere.

What it is

Tarkwa Bay is a quiet island community. Many residents are fishermen and artisans. The beach is sheltered by the Lagos breakwater, which is why the water is calmer than on many open-coast beaches.

Getting there

Boats run from the jetties at Marina, CMS and Victoria Island, according to a Lagos tourism guide. The crossing is reported to take about 15 to 20 minutes. Agree the fare and your return time before you board.

Things to do

Swimming
Surfing, with lessons from local schools such as Tarkwa Bay Surf Club
Kayaking and jet skiing
Beach volleyball
Picnics and walks along the shore
Guided tours of the community

What to expect

Infrastructure is limited. Buy from local stalls, take your litter away and respect the community.

Staying safe

Ask local operators about sea conditions before you swim, because conditions on the Lagos coast vary. The general safety advice in is Nigeria safe to visit? applies in Lagos.

Also in Lagos: Elegushi Beach and Lekki Conservation Centre. More: places to visit in Nigeria.