The Best Views of Accra

Positioned directly between the massive Black Star Square and the crashing ocean, this towering monument offers a spectacular, commanding view of the civic centre. When permitted to ascend, the vantage point reveals the staggering, immense scale of the parade grounds designed to host tens of thousands of citizens. On the opposite side, the view opens up entirely to the endless blue of the Atlantic Ocean. It is the perfect location to appreciate the ambitious, monumental urban planning initiated by the country's first president. The view beautifully captures the intersection of national pride and natural coastal beauty.

Standing proudly over the historic district, this iconic red and white striped tower provides an unparalleled vantage point over the oldest parts of the city. From the top, you get a sprawling, chaotic, and beautiful view of the incredibly active fishing harbour directly below, complete with hundreds of colourful wooden canoes. Looking inland, you can see the dense, maze like streets of the original colonial settlement and the remnants of the nearby stone forts. The strong ocean breeze at this height provides immediate relief from the heavy tropical heat. It is the absolute best spot to grasp the historical and coastal layout of the capital.

Perched on the very top floor of one of the city's most distinctive, brightly coloured modern high rises, this venue offers the ultimate luxury panoramic experience. It is the highest rooftop venue in the city, providing totally unobstructed, three hundred and sixty degree views of the sprawling metropolis below. At night, the urban landscape transforms into a glittering sea of lights, stretching from the airport all the way to the coastline. The atmosphere is highly exclusive, featuring premium cocktails and a sophisticated, affluent crowd. It is undeniably the most glamorous place to watch the sunset over the capital.

Climbing the weathered stone steps to the top of this seventeenth century Dutch fortification offers a sobering yet visually striking panoramic experience. The heavy, fortified walls provide a clear, uninterrupted view out over the vast expanse of the Gulf of Guinea. Looking down, you can observe the lively local street life and makeshift markets that have encroached right up to the base of the historic walls. Standing here allows you to perfectly visualise the strategic, defensive positioning chosen by the early European powers. It is a quiet, contemplative spot that powerfully mixes grim history with beautiful coastal scenery.

Located on the sprawling, leafy campus of the premier university, the elevated areas around the grand central administration buildings offer lovely, sweeping views. The vantage point allows you to look out over the incredibly green, impeccably landscaped academic grounds and botanical gardens. In the distance, you can see the contrast of the dense northern urban suburbs sprawling towards the horizon. It is a wonderfully peaceful, elevated spot completely removed from the noise and chaos of the downtown traffic. It provides a unique perspective on the city's calmer, academic side.

Situated slightly off the beaten path near the old colonial district, this casual spot is built directly onto the rugged coastal cliffs. It offers an incredibly intimate, low level view of the fierce Atlantic waves crashing violently against the jagged rocks right beneath your feet. You get a fantastic, unobstructed line of sight down the coastline towards the monumental Osu Castle in the distance. The setting is extremely relaxed, usually accompanied by cold local beers and the smell of grilling fish. It is the perfect, unpretentious location to feel the raw power of the ocean.