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Cape Coast

Ghana · Coast · GHS · 5.105350, -1.246600
Family friendly 5.4/10 · Rank 1983 of 2 709
Best season: November-April

Best for

History, culture, ecotourism and quiet holiday lovers

Best season

November-April

Daily budget
$69.00 (≈ 6 210 ₽ · ≈ 1 035 GHS)
For 7 days
$483.00 (≈ 43 470 ₽ · ≈ 7 245 GHS)
Cape Coast is a historic city on the Gulf of Guinea, famous for its somber castle, a major hub of the slave trade and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers a unique blend of heavy history and beautiful beaches, and serves as a gateway to Kakum National Park. Walking through the old streets of Cape Coast allows you to feel the spirit of the colonial era and enjoy majestic ocean views.
Summer
31.0°C
Winter
23.0°C
Sea
28.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Cape Coast residents are friendly, calm and proud of their historical heritage. They value traditions and always welcome guests

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Cape Coast Castle (UNESCO)
  • Kakum National Park
  • Historical significance
  • Beaches for walking
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • Swimming not recommended
  • Strong currents
  • Limited nightlife
  • Rainy season
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
28.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
31.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
27.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
23.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
25.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
28.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-June, September-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
gray
Water Entry
Type of water entry
moderate
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Cape Coast Castle Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Atlantic coast with strong waves and currents, swimming not recommended — beaches are for walking

Sea urchins — details

  • Echinometra lucunter and Diadema antillarum — common species on rocky sections of the Cape Coast coast. Stings are painful, special swimming shoes recommended
  • Sea urchins are found mainly on rocky bottoms and in reef zones

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs off Cape Coast are mainly found in the marine reserve area, including cold-water corals Lophelia pertusa at depths of about 400 metres. The Greater Cape Three Points Marine Protected Area was established in 2026
  • Reefs are home to diverse marine life: reef fish, sea turtles, rays and invertebrates

Jellyfish — details

  • Various jellyfish species inhabit the waters off Cape Coast, including Catostylidae (35%), Chirodropidae (31%), Rhizostomatidae (30%) and Pelagiidae (4%). Jellyfish appear during the warm season, especially from May to October
  • Stings are usually mild but can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Caution is recommended when swimming

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the waters off Cape Coast, including Prionace glauca (blue shark), Carcharhinus leucas (bull shark) and Sphyrna lewini (scalloped hammerhead). A total of 28 shark species and 19 ray species have been recorded in Ghanaian waters
  • Shark attacks on humans are extremely rare in this region. Caution is recommended in open waters
Attractions

Cape Coast Castle

UNESCO World Heritage Site, the largest European fort in sub-Saharan Africa, a site of the transatlantic slave trade

Brenu Beach

One of the cleanest and most serene beaches in the region

Kakum National Park

Tropical forest with canopy walkways and rich wildlife

Oasis Beach

Popular beach near the castle with restaurants and bars

Best areas

Historic Centre

Colonial part of the city with castle, museums and markets

Beach Area

Coastal area with beaches and restaurants

Must-try food

Jollof Rice

Aromatic rice with tomatoes, spices and meat

Banku and Tilapia

Traditional dish of corn dough with fried fish

Fufu

Pounded yam or cassava with palm nut soup

Kebabs

Grilled meat skewers, popular street food

Where to go next

Elmina

Historic town with castle 12 km away

Kakum

National park with canopy walkway 30 km away

Anomabo

Coastal town 30 km away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
medium
Getting there
Nearest airports
Kotoka International Airport (ACC).
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Visa
Visa requirements
e-visa
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
November-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 225 GHS
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 750 GHS
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 7 200 ₽ · ≈ 1 200 GHS
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 13 500 ₽ · ≈ 2 250 GHS
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 800 ₽ · ≈ 1 800 GHS
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$45.00
≈ 4 050 ₽ · ≈ 675 GHS
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 75 GHS
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$12.00
≈ 1 080 ₽ · ≈ 180 GHS
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.00
≈ 180 ₽ · ≈ 30 GHS
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$1.50
≈ 135 ₽ · ≈ 23 GHS
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 45 ₽ · ≈ 8 GHS
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$7.00
≈ 630 ₽ · ≈ 105 GHS
Burger
Average price for a burger
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 75 GHS
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.00
≈ 270 ₽ · ≈ 45 GHS
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 540 ₽ · ≈ 90 GHS
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$40.00
≈ 3 600 ₽ · ≈ 600 GHS
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.80
≈ 72 ₽ · ≈ 12 GHS
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$4.00
≈ 360 ₽ · ≈ 60 GHS
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 750 GHS
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 150 GHS
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$20.00
≈ 1 800 ₽ · ≈ 300 GHS
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 375 GHS
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 400 ₽ · ≈ 900 GHS
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$35.00
≈ 3 150 ₽ · ≈ 525 GHS
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 150 GHS
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 75 GHS
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Frequently asked questions
Cape Coast: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is November-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Cape Coast: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +28.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Cape Coast: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +23.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Cape Coast: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +28.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Cape Coast: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-June, September-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Cape Coast: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, gray sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Cape Coast Castle Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Cape Coast: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Cape Coast: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish, sharks. Atlantic coast with strong waves and currents, swimming not recommended — beaches are for walking. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Cape Coast: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $69.00 (≈ 6 210 ₽ · ≈ 1 035 GHS) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Cape Coast: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $15.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $45.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Cape Coast: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $5.00, dinner at a restaurant — $12.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.00, a 0.5L beer — $1.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Cape Coast: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $40.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.80, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Cape Coast: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Cape Coast Castle — UNESCO World Heritage Site, the largest European fort in sub-Saharan Africa, a site of the transatlantic slave trade; Brenu Beach — One of the cleanest and most serene beaches in the region; Kakum National Park — Tropical forest with canopy walkways and rich wildlife; Oasis Beach — Popular beach near the castle with restaurants and bars. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Cape Coast: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Jollof Rice — Aromatic rice with tomatoes, spices and meat; Banku and Tilapia — Traditional dish of corn dough with fried fish; Fufu — Pounded yam or cassava with palm nut soup; Kebabs — Grilled meat skewers, popular street food. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Cape Coast: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Historic Centre — Colonial part of the city with castle, museums and markets; Beach Area — Coastal area with beaches and restaurants. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Cape Coast: is a visa required?
Visa: e-visa. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Cape Coast: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Kotoka International Airport (code ACC). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $40.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Cape Coast: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — GHS. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $69.00 (≈ 6 210 ₽ · ≈ 1 035 GHS). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Cape Coast: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Cape Coast: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Cape Coast: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Elmina — Historic town with castle 12 km away; Kakum — National park with canopy walkway 30 km away; Anomabo — Coastal town 30 km away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.4/10
Overall rank: 1983 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1186

Best season

November-April

Useful information

Currency: GHS
Coordinates: 5.105350, -1.246600