Kokrobite

Kokrobite Beach on the New Years holiday.

Kokrobite is a beach on the Ghanaian Coastal Plain. Though geographically close to Accra (25km), Kokrobite Beach feels as if it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. It's an ideal place to spend a few days relaxing while soaking in the view of this tropical beach.

Understand

As with any beach, do not leave items unattended. Valuables and electronics should preferably not be brought onto the beach. Use your best judgement. It may also be a good idea to ask about swimming conditions before entering the water.

Get in

By Tro-Tro

From Accra, go to Kaneshie Station. You may have to ask around in order to find your way to the tro-tros leaving direct to Kokrobite, as they depart from a back corner of the station. As of December 2011, the one way fare was one cedi per person. Kaneshie is roughly 25km from Accra, and the drive will likely take over an hour (possibly much more depending on traffic). Most travelers to Kokrobite will want to disembark at the very last stop. If in doubt, ask the tro-tro mate for "Big Milly's."

After leaving the tro-tro, the most popular beachfront hotels are just a short walk down dirt roads. The directions are clearly signposted.

Get around

Within Kokrobite, you'll likely just walk. Taxis and tro-tros are available at the main road.

See

Fishing Boat

See the colorful boats, as they bring in their fresh catch.

Do

• Relax on the beach.
• Buy fabrics, clothing, crafts or souvenirs from one of the many vendors.
• Enjoy a nice meal and drinks at one of the restaurants.
• Watch the colorful fishing boats along the shore.

Buy

• Excellent souvenir stalls can be found near Big Milly's Backyard. Vendors sell a variety of clothing, carvings, and instruments at reasonable prices. As with most curio shops in Ghana, haggling is expected.

Eat

Meals: Big Milly's Backyard and Kokrobite Gardens are recommended.

Snacks: In case your sweet tooth kicks in, Big Milly's has a small snack bar stand located inside the premises, selling cookies and candy.

Fruit: Fresh bananas and pineapples can be purchased from vendors on the beach.

Drink

• Beer, soft drinks, and bottled water are available at every hotel.
• Enjoy a mixed or blended drink at Big Milly's Backyard.
• "Pure Water" sachet bags can be purchased at the beach.

Sleep

• Big Milly's Backyard -

Probably the most well known hotel in Kokrobite. Directly on the beach. A good menu with international cuisine and breakfasts (7 - 15 cedis), a bar, and a cocktail & juice bar. A range of rooms are available at various prices. Curio sellers are on site. As Big Milly's is a popular destination, it seems an excellent place to meet other travelers. A book exchange is also available at the reception office. http://www.bigmilly.com/

• Korkor Inn -

Two spots down from Big Milly's with direct access the beach. This hotel includes a large suite with bedroom, large bathroom, living room, and a balcony overlooking the beach. Ocean views directly from the room's living room area (~50 cedis). Korkor Inn is a good value for a beachfront view and seems to be a popular place for Ghanaians to eat and drink on busy days. The kitchen can prepare jolof rice and fried rice (~10 cedis).

• Kokrobite Garden -

Double rooms here were only 25 cedis and seemed like a very good value. A very nice garden area with hammocks, tire swing, and gazebo. The garden area is kept meticulously clean, and the rooms likely are as well. The guesthouses are owned by a friendly Spanish couple who have young children. Even if you decide not to stay here, it's still worth coming by for a meal. They serve excellent Italian pastas and pizzas in the 12 - 20 cedi range. Kokrobite Garden is a peaceful place to relax, and while not directly on the beach, it's an extremely short walk to the water. http://www.kokrobitegarden.com/

Go next

Tro-tros to Accra leave from the paved road. It would be wise to ask your hotel for the best time to leave.