1. River No. 2 Beach

Starting strong, we have River No. 2 Beach, famously photographed for those old ‘Visit Sierra Leone’ posters. And let me tell you, it lives up to the hype. With white sand so fine it could be mistaken for powdered sugar and water so clear you’d swear it’s photoshopped, this place is universally acknowledged as a stunner. There are quite a few places to eat and drink here. There are a lot of chairs and tables you can sit at for a fee. There are no ATMs and they do not take credit cards here so bring cash. 

On certain days this beach can be quite active, other days there’s literally no one there. Either way, it’s a great time. Your tour guide will be able to tell you which days will be crazy. 

2. Tokeh Beach

Next up is Tokeh Beach. Want a more private experience? Tokeh’s got you. This beach offers a pristine stretch of sand with enough palm trees to guarantee a shady spot. The water is so blue, it makes the sky look washed out at times and the sunsets are lovely. I highly recommend staying here at The Place Resort. It’s my favorite hotel in Sierra Leone. 

3. Lumley Beach 

Lumley Beach is the life of the party in Freetown. Think of it as that friend who insists you know every single person at the event. It’s bustling, lined with bars, restaurants, and enough vendors to buy everything you never knew you needed. If you fancy a side of people-watching with your sunset, Lumley Beach is your go-to. Just remember, it’s more crowded, so if you’re looking to avoid human contact, perhaps look elsewhere.

4. John Obey Beach 

Then there’s John Obey Beach, the introvert of the group. Less developed, more serene, and ideal for the soul-searchers or anyone who wants to pretend they’re on a deserted island. Survival skills aren’t required, but appreciation for nature’s unspoiled beauty is a must. Bring a book, or better yet, write one while you’re soaking up the untouched scenery.

5. Bureh Beach 

Catch some waves at Bureh Beach. It’s the local surf hub, where the waves are friendly enough for beginners and still a hoot for the seasoned pros. The vibe here is so laid-back, it’s horizontal. Surfers and locals mingle like they’re at a family reunion, and you’re always welcome to join the party.

6. Kent Beach

And finally, we have Kent Beach. Not to be overlooked, this charming spot offers a more quaint beach experience. It’s where locals go to escape the more touristy areas, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of Sierra Leone’s coastal communities.

The golden sand might not have the same status as others, but its authenticity is its charm. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a quiet day under the sun with a good book and a better attitude.

Conclusion

So, there you have it—Sierra Leone’s top beach picks. Whether you’re in the mood to party, lounge in luxury, or whisper sweet nothings to the ocean, these spots offer something for every type of beach-goer. Pack your bags (and maybe a witty retort or two), and prepare for sandy toes and sun-kissed noses. Sierra Leone is waiting to surprise you with its coastal charm!

Read Next:

6 Family-Friendly Safaris in Africa

Is Morocco Safe?

The post 6 Best Beaches in Sierra Leone appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Where to Stay in Freetown

Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel

Our journey begins at the Radisson Blu Hotel, the kind of place that whispers, “Hey, we know you’re roughing it out there, but let’s start with a little comfort, shall we?” With a breakfast buffet that could make a morning person out of anyone and an à la carte dinner menu that’s as diverse as your travel itinerary (I had Italian and Lebanese food here), this hotel sets the tone for a trip filled with contrasts. Check current rates.

Toma Boutique Hotel

If the Radisson is full an okay alternative is the Toma Boutique Hotel. Even if you don’t stay here you can stop in for a meal and a drink. It’s a cool place to take photos. We watched an just engaged couple taking photos here and a wedding party!

Explore Freetown: Take A City Tour

Sierra Leone National Railway Museum

Kick off your city tour with a visit to the Railway Museum. Here, you’ll find relics of the country’s rail history, and if you’re lucky, a local guide who’s as animated as the exhibits. Sadly, one of their past leaders closed their railway and this is what is left. 

Old Fourah Bay College

Next, step into the past at Old Fourah Bay College, West Africa’s first university. Though its glory days are behind it, the site holds a certain nostalgic charm that’s hard to miss. Plans are being made to refurbish it and reopen it.

Cotton Tree

The beloved Cotton Tree may have recently fallen, but its legacy stands tall and some of the tree is left and regrowing. This spot is a poignant reminder of resilience and history. Depending on where all you go during your time in Sierra Leone you will see so many of these massive trees. 

Peace and Cultural Monument

These stops offer a deeper dive into Sierra Leone’s rich cultural tapestry and tumultuous history. You can’t see it from this photo but the surrounding wall is a painted mural depicting some of the country’s history. 

Sierra Leone’s National Museum

The National Museum, though small, packs a punch with its artifacts and stories. The history here is extremely rich.

Sierra Leone Peace Museum

A must-visit for those interested in understanding the shadows of the 11-year Civil War. It’s sobering but essential. They will ask you if you want to see images that they have covered up. This includes people who have been beheaded. I recommend declining to see it. After seeing, I just can’t seem to unsee it. 

Gateway to the Kings Yard

Conclude your city tour with a stop at this historic gateway, which offers a peek into Sierra Leone’s colonial past.

Lunch with a View

At some point during the day refuel at the rooftop restaurant of the city’s tallest building, The View: Restaurant & Sky Lounge. The view is spectacular, and the food? Equally so. I recommend ordering one of the Indian dishes. 

Evening Cooking Class with Susan Senesi

The highlight of my Freetown experience was an evening with Susan Senesi, a champion of women’s empowerment who is training others to cook and serve and teaching locals how to make more with their native foods. At her Treat Food Concept, we rolled up our sleeves and dived into a home cooking class. Susan shared the stories behind the food, turning a simple meal into a cultural immersion. During the day you can stop in for lunch. To book a cooking class you can DM her on Instagram.

River No. 2 Beach

River No. 2 beach is a lovely white beach area on the Atlantic and it has a river there that reaches the ocean which makes for a calmer place to swim if needed. There are several restaurants and bars here you can visit. They do charge you though to sit down. There are no ATMs here and they do not take credit cards. 

 

Day Trips from Freetown

Bunce Island

Bunce Island is a hauntingly beautiful relic of the past. The largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast, its ruins tell a story of sorrow and strength. The history here is hard to hear but important. The boat ride back to the mainland gives you plenty of time to reflect on the island’s history.

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

A day at Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is heartwarming. The sanctuary, hidden in a 100-acre reserve, is committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned and abandoned chimps. The tour takes you through the various stages of the sanctuary. Spending the night in one of their small cabins adds a rustic charm to the adventure. (The cabins have no a/c, no wifi, and limited electricity.)

I found out later that they offer good hiking and have waterfalls you can see. 

Final Thoughts

Sierra Leone is not for the faint-hearted, but it rewards the adventurous soul with its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Pack your sense of humor, a hearty dose of patience, and a spirit of adventure, and you’ll find that Freetown, Sierra Leone has more than enough to offer. Happy travels!

6 Best Beaches in Sierra Leone

16 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Garden Route of South Africa

14 Amazing Things to do in Cape Town

The post Freetown, Sierra Leone Travel Guide: An Adventure for the Brave and Bold appeared first on Mommy Travels.