Lagos, also known as the city that never sleeps and one of the most vibrant and exciting places in Nigeria, is the beating heart of Nigeria.
Far beyond its bubbling commercial energy lies a great treasure chest that is yet to be found by vacationers and tourists.
Whether you’re looking for sun-kissed beaches, exciting nightlife, adrenaline-pumping activities, cultural immersion, or calm and peaceful escapes, Lagos offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences to create an unforgettable getaway. Here’s your guide to some of the best places to visit in Lagos, Nigeria, for a truly memorable vacation.
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Beaches and Relaxation
Lagos boasts a variety of beaches and relaxation spots, each with the perfect ambience to help you unwind while having fun. Some of the top destinations include:
1. Tarkwa Bay Beach
This beach is only accessible by boat from jetties like Tarzan Jetty or Mekwe Jetty. Tarkwa Bay Beach offers a calm, peaceful and untroubled escape from the city’s hustle. Its calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach is perfect for sunbathing, having beautiful picnics, and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
The absence of heavy traffic due to the mode of transportation that is used to transport visitors to the location gives it a very refreshing difference to mainland Lagos.
2. Elegushi Royal Beach
A popular choice known for its lively atmosphere, Elegushi Beach boasts of golden sands and the crashing waves of the Atlantic. It is an amazing spot for social gatherings, enjoying live music, and indulging in local beachside cuisine.
Be prepared for an exciting and sometimes crowded experience, on the weekends and on holidays especially.
3. Landmark Beach
Offering a chic and upscale beach experience, Landmark Beach consists of well-maintained facilities, various water related sports activities, and a family-friendly surrounding.
With its iconic Ferris wheel and diverse entertainment options, it’s a great place to spend a fun-filled and activity-filled day.
4. Ziba Beach Resort
Ziba Beach Resort is a highly-rated resort in Lagos that is known for its positive reviews from guests on vacation or tourism, for its beautiful setting, excellent food, friendly staff, family-friendly environment and luxurious ambience.
It captures the attention of people with its beachfront access and private beach area, outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar, spa, game room and cinema, children’s playground and pool, outdoor jungle gym, fire pit, high speed Wi-Fi, and wheelchair accessible parking and entrance for disabled visitors.
5. Oniru Beach
Oniru beach is another accessible beach option, which offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment. You can find various beach clubs and bars along its stretch, catering to all types of preferences. It quite a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a convenient beach escape.
Culture Enthusiasts and History Buffs
Now, let’s talk about a list of places that can be very appealing to people who are highly interested in history and culture.
1. National Museum of Lagos
While on your vacation, you can delve into Nigeria’s rich history and cultural heritage at the National Museum. Its extensive collection showcases artifacts ranging from traditional art and sculptures to historical relics and ethnographic exhibits, providing a fascinating insight into the nation’s past.
2. Nike Art Gallery
Nike Art Gallery is a place that allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Nigerian contemporary art. This privately-owned gallery houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, batik, and other art forms by Nigerian artists, including the renowned Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye.
It’s not just a gallery but also a cultural hub where one can witness art creation and even participate in workshops.
3. Freedom Park
Located on Lagos Island, Freedom Park is a former colonial prison transformed into a vibrant arts and culture center. It hosts live music performances, theatre productions, art exhibitions, and food fairs, offering a unique blend of history and contemporary expressions.
4. Kalakuta Republic Museum
Kalakuta Republic Museum allows you to step into the legendary world of Afrobeat icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti at his former residence, now the Kalakuta Republic Museum.
This museum was created to explore his personal belongings, musical instruments, and learn about his life and socio-political activism. It is a pilgrimage for music lovers and those interested in learning about Nigerian history.
5. Badagry
A day trip to the historic town of Badagry is necessary, as it is a significant port during the transatlantic slave trade. Exploring places like the Slave Relics Museum, the Point of No Return, and the First Storey Building in Nigeria helps one to understand a crucial part of history.
Nature Lovers and Tranquility Seekers
Moving on, let’s give you a list of places that can be seen as the perfect recreational location for people who enjoy being in touch with nature and their environment.
1. Lekki Conservation Center (LCC)
For a moment, you can escape the urban sprawl at the Lekki Conservation Center; a very large and beautiful nature reserve offering a glimpse into Lagos’s natural biodiversity. It has breathtaking views that can be seen while walking along the canopy walkway. Activities such as bird watching of various bird species, monkeys, and even crocodiles can be done at LCC. It is a perfect place for nature walks and reconnecting with the environment while enjoying your vacation.
2. Lufasi Nature Park
This is another green oasis in the heart of Lagos. Lufasi Nature Park provides a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. This location allows you to enjoy nature trails, picnic spots and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city’s noise.
3. Ndubuisi Park
This a park that was made to provide green space for recreation and relaxation, contributing to a healthier environment in Lagos. It has attractive features such as children’s playground with swings and other equipment, a Lawn tennis court and basketball court, seats and benches for relaxation, snack stand, large green area suitable for picnics, a mini zoo, a water fountain, and many more.
Amusement and Adrenaline
Amusement parks, water parks, etc. are places that give people a rush of excitement, reminds us how fun life can be and should be added to your to-do list on your vacation!
From the rides and slides, to the people, to the food stands, amusement parks and water parks give a sense of joy to everyone; both the young and old.
The following are some of the best and safest amusement and water parks which Lagos has to offer.
1. Hakuna Matata Theme Park
Hakuna Matata theme park, located by Eko Hotels, is deemed as the largest theme park in West Africa. It has the best facilities and the safest equipment, which allows us to use those rides without fear. The rides range from simple, calm, and child safe to fear instilling, adrenaline-based rides. A number of other activities are also available such as painting, indoor games and so much more.
2. Apapa Amusement Park
This is also another safe and exciting place to go. It has a range of rides from adrenaline pumping rides such as the “Space Travel” and safe and fun filled rides such as the “Sky Race”. It also has indoor games such as board games and even virtual reality, as well as snack stands to provide refreshments for the people.
Fine Dining & Nightlife
If there’s one major thing Lagos is known for, it is its reputation for having the most restaurants and energetic night life sections in Nigeria.
Not only are they numerous but they offer some of the best meals in fine dining locations. Additionally, they are vibrant and exciting locations to celebrate with those you love, and to meet new people.
The following are just a few of the best restaurants and clubs in Lagos, Nigeria that you can visit on your vacation.
Fine Dining
1. NOK by ALARA
Situated within the Alara concept store in Victoria Island, NOK offers a modern interpretation of African cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It boasts of a stylish ambience with both indoor and garden seating, making it suitable for both casual and more special occasions.
2. Shiro Lagos
Located in Victoria Island, Shiro offers Pan-Asian cuisine in a grand and stylish setting with high ceilings and impressive décor. It is a popular choice for its diverse menu of Japanese, Chinese, and Thai dishes, as well as its lively atmosphere and sometimes has a live Teppanyaki experience.
3. Gras Lagos
Gras Lagos is an upscale and luxurious restaurant with sophisticated ambience, offering delicious cocktails, alongside its exquisite cuisine and a mix of interior styles.
4. Kaly Restaurant and Bar
Kaly Restaurant and Bar is a rooftop restaurant and bar lounge known for its steaks and upscale vibe with great view of Eko Atlantic. It offers a fusion of local and international cuisines in an elegant setting.
Nightlife
1. Club Quilox
Club Quilox is a very upscale and hip club, with good music, and a lively vibe that allows you to feel as free as possible. It is considered a top-rated, classy and trendy club with a dance floor, making it a great hangout spot for both locals and foreigners. However, it is not a suitable place for children because clubs are not meant for children.
2. Carlsbad Lounge and Night Club
This is also a very hip and upscale club that oozes a romantic, cosy and casual vibe. It is known for its amazing food, pleasant atmosphere, and spacious lounge, which makes it a top spot for relaxation.
3. Vaniti Lagos
It is a premier nightclub which also functions as a grill and bar. Vaniti Lagos is known for its classy and vibrant atmosphere. It has a spacious dance floor and modern décor. It is considered a luxurious and immersive nightlife experience.
Final Thoughts
Lagos is a city of contrasts—urban excitement meets natural beauty, and cultural heritage blends with modern entertainment. By exploring these vibrant destinations, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable vacation experience in the true “Jewels of the City of Lagos.”
Read Also: Eco-Tourism: Supporting Sustainable Travel Practices
