A Beach and Surf Day at Tarkwa Bay by Boat
Take a speedboat from Victoria Island or CMS for a day of swimming and surfing in the sheltered bay of Tarkwa Bay.
A Beach and Surf Day Trip to Tarkwa Bay by Boat
Reachable in a 15-minute boat ride from Mekwun Jetty (VI) or Tarzan Jetty, Tarkwa Bay is a beach sheltered from the Atlantic's rough waves, perfect for swimming and learning to surf.
A Peninsula Born From Lagos Port Construction
Tarkwa Bay is an artificial peninsula formed by sand buildup resulting from the construction of the Lagos port breakwaters in the early 20th century, which altered ocean currents and created this naturally sheltered bay protected from the Atlantic's rough waves. This particular geological origin explains why its waters are noticeably calmer than beaches directly exposed to the ocean, such as Alpha Beach or Kuramo Beach, making it ideal for family swimming and learning to surf.
Boat-Only Access
Unlike most Lagos beaches reachable by road, Tarkwa Bay can only be reached by fast boat, typically departing from Mekwun Jetty (Victoria Island) or Tarzan Jetty, for a crossing of about 15 minutes. This access constraint naturally limits crowds compared to mainland beaches and helps preserve a quieter setting, even though sunny weekends draw a growing number of visitors seeking a break from the city's hustle.
Planning Your Crossing and Day on the Island
Boats departing from the jetties typically run on a shared-departure or private-charter basis for larger groups, with rates varying by season and negotiation. iLagosCity recommends clearly agreeing on a return time with the boat pilot before departure, since the island has no formal hotel infrastructure for an extended stay, and bringing sunscreen, water, and cash, as on-site vendors are limited to a handful of informal drink and grilled-food stalls.
A Fishing Community Coexisting With Tourism
The island is also home to a long-established fishing community, whose traditional livelihood coexists with the growing influx of beachgoers. This proximity gives curious visitors a chance to observe a way of life still largely centered on artisanal fishing, just minutes by boat from the financial heart of Lagos.