Banjul Beach holidays

A small seaport located on the River Gambia, Banjul has a low-key night-life but brims with energy and colour during the day. Banjul Beach has a few restaurants and various nature parks within reach, whilst the large local markets offer the chance to barter for authentic African crafts. A taste of authentic Africa, Banjul Beach is a perfect Gambian retreat where you can relax on a palm–fringed beach and soak up the sub–tropical sunshine.

As the capital city of The Gambia, there’s a long history dating back to the colonial era, marking the 200th anniversary of its official founding in 2016. Visit the city's museums and two cathedrals to learn more about its history and culture. Banjul Beach is also a popular base for day trips to Gambia's inland natural attractions such as the Abuko Nature Reserve.

Things to do

Spend some time at the Banjul Gambia National Museum during your holiday, where you can learn all about the history of this nation, such as the colonial period, the liberation and growth of Banul, and West Africa's archaeological history. Or visit the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool in Bakau, where you can see a sacred crocodile pool used for fertility rituals.

Home to the large and vibrant Albert Market, you’ll find great local produce, wooden masks, and locally made fabrics. It is named after the British royal Albert, Prince Consort, who was Queen Victoria's husband. If you're looking for some quality hand-crafted souvenirs to take home with you, this is an excellent place to visit.

Excellent beaches

The remote paradise of Banjul Beach provides the ideal setting for peaceful days by the shore. Wild greenery and palm trees decorate the long stretch of soft sand that shelves gently into crystal clear waters. There’s plenty of opportunity for water sports along the coast just outside of town, where you can parasail, ride a banana boat and hire a boat. Or if you prefer to just relax, recline on sun loungers, taking shade under parasols as you enjoy the views of the glistening coast.

History and culture

Banjul Beach is a quaint seaport and the capital of The Gambia, which is one of the smallest in Africa. The beach resort can be found on the south of the River Gambia and comes alive each day with packed markets, working fishing boats and exotic species of birds. Colonial British originally established it in the 19th century who used its location as a base for important trading up the river. Trade is still a huge part of Banjul’s culture, which can be explored in its vibrant city markets selling everything from fresh fruit, fish and textiles.

Vibrant nightlife

Banjul Beach has a relatively low key nightlife but there is a variety of restaurants and bars to enjoy. Spend your evening dining in one of the coastal restaurants and sampling locally grown fruit and authentic Gambian cuisine such as domoda, a heart meat stew in peanut sauce. Make your way to one of the bars and pubs to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and a place to sip on a cocktail or try the iconic local beer, Jul Brew. For something more upbeat, head to one of the few open air clubs where you can dance till the early hours to music played by a live band.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bijilo | Brufut Heights | Gambia | Kololi Beach | Kotu Beach