📍 Where Is Cape Coast?

Cape Coast is located on the southern coast of Ghana, along the Gulf of Guinea, about 145 km (90 miles) west of Accra. It’s nestled between the cities of Winneba and Sekondi-Takoradi, making it an excellent stop along the coastal corridor.

🚗 How to Get There from Accra

🚌 By Bus:

• Major transport companies like STC, VIP Jeoun, and Ford minivans operate between Accra and Cape Coast.

• Departure: Kaneshie or Circle stations in Accra.

• Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours

• Fare: Around GHS 50–100

🚘 By Car:

• Drive west on the N1 Highway toward Winneba and Mankessim, continuing to Cape Coast. Road conditions are not the best until halfway into Cape Coast, due ongoing road building. (2024/25/2026)

• A scenic route with ocean views, coconut trees, and small coastal towns.

• Great for exploring the Central Region coast along the way. (many Forts and Castles), 

🗺️ Top Attractions in Cape Coast

🏰 1. Cape Coast Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

One of the most powerful and moving sites in West Africa, Cape Coast Castle was a key hub in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. The "Door of No Return" draws thousands of diaspora visitors annually. Tours include the dungeons, courtyards, governor’s quarters, and the West African Historical Museum. However, check our Forts and Castles page, as there are 2 more forts in Cape Coast!

📝 "Visiting the castle is a haunting yet powerful experience — a must-see for anyone seeking to understand the African diaspora."

🏞️ 2. Kakum National Park

Located about 30 minutes from Cape Coast, this lush tropical rainforest is home to hundreds of plant and animal species — including forest elephants and monkeys. The Canopy Walkway, suspended high above the forest floor, is one of Ghana’s most thrilling eco-tourism experiences.

🎨 3. Cape Coast Arts Centre

Great for buying authentic African art, crafts, wood carvings, and bead jewelry made by local artisans. It's also a great place to interact with local craftsmen and watch them at work.

🐚 4. Elmina Castle (Nearby)

About 15 minutes west of Cape Coast is Elmina, home to St. George's Castle — the oldest European building in sub-Saharan Africa, built by the Portuguese in 1482. Its history parallels Cape Coast Castle and offers another poignant perspective on the slave trade era. Don`t Miss the above, Dutch build Fort! Best views over Elmina!

🏖️ 5. Brenu Beach / Oasis Beach

Cape Coast has several serene beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and seafood dining. Oasis Beach (next to Cape Coast Castle) and Brenu Beach (about 30 minutes away) are two favorites.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Cape Coast

🐟 Castle Restaurant & Oasis Beach Resort

Enjoy meals with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Try grilled tilapia, jollof rice, or lobster with local sides.

🍛 Orange Beach Resort

Another beachfront option with fresh seafood, local dishes, and international fare in a relaxed setting. However, often slow service! If you like it more relaxed, there are a few beach pubs, restaurants along the beach, coming from Cape Coast Castle, forward Elmina! Good food and cheaper! Regarding transportation, agree on a fixed price with taxi drivers! Very important!

🥘 Emintsimadze Palace Restaurant

Great local restaurant offering traditional Ghanaian dishes like fufu, banku and okro stew, and ampesi.

☕ Baobab House

A vegetarian-friendly spot that also runs a local charity. Try the fruit juices, smoothies, and healthy meals — all made with organic ingredients.

🏨 Where to Stay

• Oasis Beach Resort – Budget to mid-range, right by the ocean, lively and backpacker-friendly.

• Ridge Royal Hotel – Upscale option with a pool, gym, and restaurant.

• Hans Cottage Botel – A unique hotel set on a crocodile pond! Great for eco-tourism lovers.

• Orange Beach Resort – Relaxed beachfront lodging with easy access to tourist sites. However, you will find hotels, starting at just 120 Cedis, if you ask around, when in Cape Coast. (not during festival seasons of Cape Coast and Elmina)

🥁 Cultural Events & Heritage

🎉 PANAFEST (Pan-African Historical Festival)

Held every two years, this festival celebrates African heritage, diaspora reunification, and healing. Activities include durbar of chiefs, cultural displays, re-enactments, and memorials at the castles.

👣 Year of Return / Beyond the Return

Cape Coast has become a key stop for visitors of African descent tracing their roots. Many partake in ancestral tours, naming ceremonies, and cultural immersion experiences.

🥁 Yearly September Festival

Cape Coast is celebrating a yearly 4 days festival. Usually staring first week of September, with Orange Friday, continuing Saturday, Sunday and finale day, Monday! Hotels need to be booked well in advance!

🌿 Day Trips from Cape Coast

• Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River – A sacred site where enslaved Africans were bathed before being taken to the castles.

• Anomabo – Quiet beach town with historical significance.

• Hans Cottage Botel – Visit for a meal or to see crocodiles and birds.

• University of Cape Coast (UCC) – One of Ghana’s top academic institutions; the campus overlooks the ocean and hosts cultural events.

• Fort Komenda - At Komenda town, about 40 minutes from Cape Coast, forward Sekondi-Takoradi. Well worth a visit! You will get to the British Komenda Fort. Ask for the Dutch Fort too!

🌟 Why Visit Cape Coast?

✅ Rich in African and colonial history
✅ Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites
✅ Proximity to rainforest adventures
✅ Beautiful beaches and coastal views
✅ Ideal for diaspora tourism and ancestral discovery
✅ Unique cultural festivals and craft markets

🧭 Final Thoughts

Cape Coast is more than a city — it’s a living monument to Ghana’s past and a beacon for African heritage. Whether you come for reflection, education, nature, or relaxation, Cape Coast welcomes you with warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and a journey that touches the soul.