Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Kotu Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +27.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Kotu Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Kotu Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Kotu Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Kotu Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in November. It ends in March. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Kotu Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Kotu Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (Portuguese man-of-war), stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Kotu Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Kotu Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Kotu Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Palm Beach Resort Restaurant, Kombo Beach Hotel Restaurant, Local Beach Bars. Cuisines available: Gambian, Seafood, International. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Kotu Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat, Sunglasses, First aid kit, Binoculars.
Kotu Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is the dry season from November to March. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. For birdwatching, the best time is early morning (06:30–09:00).
Kotu Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim only in the area in front of hotels, do not swim far out due to strong currents. Do not touch jellyfish even if dead. Do not leave litter.
Kotu Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Kotu Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and birdwatching enthusiasts. Suitable for calm swimming, birdwatching and walks. Not suitable for those seeking loud nightlife.
Kotu Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of the Kotu tourist area and is known for its birdwatching: over 250 bird species recorded in the nearby Abuko Nature Reserve. Kotu Creek is one of West Africa-s top birdwatching sites.
Kotu Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: One of The Gambia-s longest sandy beaches (over 3 km), Golden sand, Near Kotu Creek — one of West Africa-s top birdwatching sites, Developed hotel infrastructure, International recognition (Green Flag 2026), Quiet atmosphere, Excellent swimming conditions near hotels. Cons: Strong currents and no lifeguards, Risk of jellyfish, Crowded in high season, Pushy vendors, Limited natural shade.
Kotu Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Kotu Creek, Abuko Nature Reserve, Kotu Market. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Kotu Beach: how do I get to the city of Bakau?
The beach is located near the city of Bakau. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Bakau.