Things to Do in Accra, Ghana 2026

Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, blends modern city life with rich cultural heritage. From colonial-era Jamestown to buzzing Oxford Street, here is your complete guide to experiencing the best of Accra.

Top Attractions

1. Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum & Memorial Park

The final resting place of Ghana's first president, set in beautiful gardens in central Accra. The museum inside documents Ghana's independence struggle and Nkrumah's vision for Pan-Africanism. Entry fee: GHS 10 (adults).

2. Jamestown & Ussher Fort

The historic heart of Accra. Walk through the fishing harbour, climb the Jamestown Lighthouse for panoramic views, explore Ussher Fort (a former slave trading post), and experience the raw, authentic energy of this Ga community. This is also where the annual Chale Wote street art festival takes place.

3. W.E.B. Du Bois Centre for Pan African Culture

The former home and final resting place of the great African American scholar who became a Ghanaian citizen. A must-visit for diaspora visitors, the centre houses his personal library and documents the global Pan-African movement.

4. National Museum of Ghana

Ghana's premier museum showcasing archaeology, ethnography, and art. Exhibits cover Akan gold weights, traditional textiles, colonial history, and contemporary Ghanaian art. Located on Barnes Road near the University of Ghana.

5. Makola Market

Accra's largest and most chaotic open-air market. Everything from fabrics and beads to electronics and spices. The ultimate sensory experience -- go with a local guide for the best prices and to navigate the maze of stalls.

6. Oxford Street (Osu)

Accra's main commercial and entertainment strip. Lined with restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops. Visit the Osu Castle (former seat of government) nearby, though access inside is restricted.

Beaches

Labadi Beach (La Pleasure Beach)

Accra's most popular beach with live music, drum circles, and horse riding on weekends. Entry fee: GHS 10-20. Best visited on Saturdays when beach bars and restaurants are in full swing.

Bojo Beach

A more relaxed, resort-style beach accessed by a short boat ride across a lagoon. Quieter than Labadi with sun loungers, clean sand, and a restaurant. Entry fee: GHS 30-50. Great for families.

Kokrobite Beach

About 30km west of Accra, home to the legendary Big Milly's Backyard -- a backpacker institution. Traditional drumming and dance performances on the beach, surfing, and a bohemian vibe. The Academy of African Music and Arts (AAMA) offers drumming workshops.

Ada Foah

Where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean, about 100km east of Accra. Stunning sandbar beaches, river cruises, water sports, and the Songor Lagoon. The Sogakope Estuary is one of Ghana's most beautiful natural areas. Best visited as a weekend trip.

Food & Nightlife

Must-Try Restaurants

  • Buka Restaurant (Airport Residential): Authentic Ghanaian food -- jollof rice, banku, fufu with light soup, grilled tilapia
  • Asanka Local (Osu): Popular for traditional dishes at reasonable prices in a vibrant atmosphere
  • Azmera Restaurant: Fufu with various soups, waakye, and other local favourites
  • Auntie Muni's (Labone): Famous waakye stall frequented by ex-presidents and celebrities
  • Coco Lounge (Airport City): Upscale dining with Ghanaian and continental fusion

Nightlife Hotspots

  • Osu/Oxford Street: Bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges line the strip
  • Republic Bar & Grill (Osu): Live music, craft cocktails, trendy crowd
  • Firefly Lounge Bar: Popular with expats and locals alike
  • +233 Jazz Bar & Grill: Live jazz and highlife music nights
  • Sandbox Beach Club: Beachside parties, DJs, bonfire nights

Practical Information

AirportKotoka International Airport (ACC) -- 10km from city centre
Getting AroundUber/Bolt widely available; tro-tros (minibuses) for local travel; taxis (negotiate fare before boarding)
CurrencyGhana Cedi (GHS). ATMs widely available. Credit cards accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants.
SafetyGenerally safe; avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas; watch for pickpockets at markets
LanguageEnglish (official); Ga, Twi widely spoken locally
Best Time to VisitNovember to March (dry season, cooler temperatures)

Frequently Asked Questions

Two to three days is enough to see Accra's main attractions. Add extra days for day trips to Aburi Botanical Gardens, Shai Hills Reserve, or Kokrobite Beach. Most visitors use Accra as a base for exploring the wider country.

Accra is one of the safest capital cities in West Africa. Exercise normal precautions: use Uber/Bolt rather than random taxis at night, be aware of your surroundings at markets, and avoid displaying expensive items. Most areas frequented by tourists are very safe.

Osu is the most popular area for tourists -- close to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Airport Residential Area and Cantonments are upscale neighbourhoods with good hotels. Labone is quiet and residential but well-located. Budget travellers may prefer Kokrobite Beach (30 minutes from the city).

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