Best Places to Stay in Accra Ghana

Where to Stay in Accra: A Guide for Tourists

Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget and taste. From luxurious beachfront resorts to charming guesthouses and affordable hostels, you’re sure to find a place that feels like home during your stay.

Here’s a breakdown of some popular areas and the types of lodging you might find there:

Downtown/Accra Central:

  • Budget:
    • Guesthouses: For a taste of local life, consider staying in a guesthouse. These are often family-run and offer a more affordable option with basic amenities.
    • Hostels: Several hostels cater to budget travelers and backpackers in the city center.
  • Mid-range:
    • Comfortable hotels: Accra boasts many hotels that provide a balance of affordability and amenities, including good Wi-Fi access, comfortable rooms, and on-site restaurants.

Airport Residential Area:**

  • Upscale Hotels: Many international chains have a presence in this area, offering convenient locations for early flights and luxurious experiences.
    • What to expect: Cleanliness, comfort, and security are top priorities in this upscale neighborhood.

Osu:**

  • Boutique hotels & Guesthouses: Experience the trendy side of Accra with its vibrant nightlife and diverse restaurants.
  • Luxury Boutique Hotels: Enjoy a comfortable stay with a touch of local style.

Osu details for tourists:

  • Accommodation: A mix of budget-friendly hostels and mid-range boutique hotels can be found in this bustling area, catering to both social butterflies and those seeking a quieter experience.

  • What to do:

    • Explore Oxford Street: Accra’s “Oxford Street” is the heart of Osu’s nightlife, with plenty of lively bars, clubs, and restaurants offering local cuisine and live music.
    • Shop at the Osu Night Market: This vibrant marketplace is a great place to find unique souvenirs and crafts from across Ghana.
    • Relax on the beach:** Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Labadi or Kokrobite, just a short drive from the city center.

Labone & Cantonments:**

  • Upscale hotels and apartments: These areas offer more luxurious and private accommodation options for those seeking comfort and exclusivity.

  • Accra Details:

    • Osu offers: A vibrant mix of nightlife and social activities, with a range of bars, restaurants, and cafes catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.
    • Expect to find: A more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier streets of Osu.

Labadi Beach:**

  • Beachfront hotels & resorts: Experience the beach life in Accra at one of the luxurious hotels located along the coast.

  • What to do: Enjoy a variety of activities like swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.

    • Labadi offers: A vibrant atmosphere with stunning ocean views.

  • Things to consider:

    • Budget: Higher-end accommodation in Accra’s coastal areas will be more expensive than options further inland.

Osu, Labadi, and Cantonments:

  • Restaurants & Bars: From budget-friendly street food stalls to upscale restaurants, Osu offers a diverse culinary scene. You can find everything from Ghanaian staples like fufu and banku to international cuisines like Italian and Lebanese.
  • Shopping: Labadi Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife, offering something for everyone from relaxed bars to bustling pubs and clubs.

Osu’s nightlife:

  • Nightclubs: Enjoy the lively nightlife of Osu with a variety of night clubs and bars catering to different tastes.
  • Live music venues: Experience the local music scene in a unique setting.
  • Restaurants: Enjoy delicious meals at a range of restaurants, from traditional Ghanaian eateries offering tasty dishes like fufu and banku, to upscale options and vibrant bars.

Safety:

  • Look for: Reputable establishments with good security measures.

Osu (specifically)

  • Airport proximity: Osu’s location near the airport makes it a convenient choice for travelers with late flights or early departures.

Beyond Accommodation:

  • Airport accommodation:
    • Airport hotels: The best option for those looking for comfort and convenience near the airport.
  • Transportation: Public transportation is readily available in Accra, but consider taxis or ride-sharing services for safety and ease of getting around.**

For a great experience:

  • Explore local culture: Stay in Osu to be close to the action while still experiencing its vibrant atmosphere.

Labadi Beach:

  • Beachfront bars and restaurants: Enjoy the lively nightlife scene at Labadi Beach, with options for every budget.

Consider visiting:

  • Osu Night Market: For a taste of local life, explore the diverse stalls of the Osu Night Market and enjoy delicious street food, fresh fruit, and vibrant music.
  • National Museum of Ghana: Located in Accra’s central district, the National Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Ghana.

Labadi Beach:

  • Explore the bustling nightlife:

For a unique and memorable stay:

  • Consider a boutique hotel: Osu is home to many unique and charming hotels that can provide a more personalized experience.

Beyond the Basics:

  • Budget: Consider:
    • Hostel options: For those on a budget, a stay at a beachfront guesthouse in Accra offers a more relaxed and affordable alternative.

Remember:

  • Check local travel advisories: Before traveling to Osu or anywhere else in Accra, it’s always advisable to check the latest travel advisories from your government regarding safety and security.

**Things to consider when booking: **

  • Location:

Think about what you want to prioritize:

  • Convenience for sightseeing: If staying in a central location, a hotel near popular attractions would be ideal.
  • Reviews: Read reviews carefully on websites like TripAdvisor or Booking.com to get a sense of the experience other travelers have had.
  • Amenities: Decide which amenities are important to you.
  • Budget: Consider your budget and look for affordable options that offer good value for money.

Price range:

  • Think about what you can afford and compare prices.
  • Look for deals:
    • Compare hotel rates across different platforms.

Location & Activities:

  • Osu: Known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and bars.

Labadi Beach: Consider the time of year as it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

  • Price comparison websites: Use these to compare prices from various hotels in Osu.

Booking tips for your trip:

  • Book in advance: Especially if you are traveling during peak season (e.g., December-January) or need specific amenities.
  • Read the fine print: Pay attention to check-in and check-out times, cancellation policies, and any additional fees.**

Reviews:

  • Consider looking for:
    • Reviews on specific amenities like Wi-Fi or breakfast.
  • Compare different dates: Prices can vary based on the season, so it’s worth checking prices for a few weeks before and after your desired stay to ensure you get the best deal.

Beyond the above:

  • Consider local experiences:

Think about what type of accommodation would be best for your needs:

  • Budget:

Are there any budget-friendly hotels or guesthouses near the attractions you want to visit?

  • Safety:
  • Transportation:
    • Check if the area offers safe and reliable transportation options.

Consider staying in a guesthouse:

  • Look for: Options with good reviews, especially regarding safety measures and security.

Think about booking:

Are there any guesthouses with amenities like:

  • Security guards: A lot of local accommodation has them.
  • Safe access: Think about the location’s accessibility to transportation and if it is in a safe area.
  • Secure storage for valuables: Ensure you have peace of mind during your stay.

Consider these factors:

  • Safety:

Think about:

  • Location, Location, Location:

Choose a guesthouse located in a safe and secure neighborhood with good transportation links.

Transportation:

  • Public transport: Taxis are readily available, but be sure to negotiate the price beforehand.

Consider these tips:

  • Take note of the taxi’s fare type before you get in (fixed rate or meter).
  • Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt for a safe and reliable option with transparent pricing.
  • Driving times: Traffic in Accra can be unpredictable, so factor in extra time for transportation.

Consider:

Staying near the airport if you have an early flight might be a good idea.

For a fun and memorable experience:

  • Explore the local cuisine: Enjoying local food is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
  • Experience the nightlife: Look for a guesthouse with a vibrant atmosphere and good reviews of its social scene.
  • Immerse yourself in Ghanaian culture:

Consider:

  • Location: If you want to be closer to the action, choose a guesthouse or hotel in Osu.
  • Amenities: Look for:

Popular local experiences:

  • Live music venues:

Think about what type of ambiance you are looking for and if it is important to be near the music scene.

Labadi Beach:

  • Local markets:
  • Culture & entertainment:

If you want to experience the local vibe and enjoy live music and food,

  • Cultural immersion:

Consider a Labadi beach resort for a truly immersive experience.

Review websites:

Search for “beachfront resorts” and “affordable accommodation near Labadi Beach”.