Bakau and Cape Point
An established coastal town with the sacred Kachikally pool and beaches at Cape Point.
- Where
- Atlantic coast, west of Banjul
- Good for
- Independent travellers, Visitors interested in culture and everyday Gambian life, Travellers who prefer guesthouses and smaller hotels
Bakau is one of the oldest towns on the Gambian coast and feels like a neighbourhood rather than a resort. Local tradition holds that the town grew up around the sacred crocodile pool at Kachikally, in its central district.
The beaches at Cape Point sit at Bakau's northern tip, and the town has a working fishing beach and craft stalls. Banjul is close by, which makes Bakau a practical base for a day in the capital.
Hotels in Bakau and Cape Point
We do not yet have a verified hotel profile for this area. Most leisure visitors stay on the Atlantic resort coast and visit Banjul as a day trip.
Who this area suits
- Independent travellers
- Visitors interested in culture and everyday Gambian life
- Travellers who prefer guesthouses and smaller hotels
The beach
Cape Point and Bakau coast: Bakau's Atlantic coast near Cape Point and the Gambia River estuary.
Nearby attractions
- Kachikally Crocodile PoolA sacred pool and museum in the heart of Bakau, cared for by the Bojang family.
- Arch 22The monumental arch at the entrance to Banjul, with views over the city.
- Markets and craft marketsAlbert Market in Banjul, Serekunda's market and coastal craft stalls.
Compare other areas
- Kololi and SenegambiaThe liveliest resort strip, with the widest choice of hotels and restaurants.
- KotuA calmer beach base, with a mangrove-lined creek popular with birdwatchers.
- Bijilo and BrufutA quieter stretch of coast south of Kololi, with more space and resort hotels.
- BanjulThe compact capital on an island at the river mouth. Best as a day trip for most.
Photos on this page: Wmtribe2015, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Cropped for display. All image credits