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Jamestown, Ghana - Things to Do in Jamestown

Jamestown

Jamestown, Ghana - Complete Travel Guide

Jamestown is one of Accra's most historically significant and culturally busy neighborhoods, serving as the original settlement of the Ga people and later becoming the heart of colonial Gold Coast administration. This bustling fishing community sits along the Atlantic coastline and is home to iconic landmarks like the Jamestown Lighthouse and Ussher Fort, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Ghana's rich maritime heritage and colonial past. Today, Jamestown pulses with energy as local fishermen haul in their daily catch, artists create impressive murals on weathered walls, and traditional drumming echoes through narrow streets lined with colonial-era architecture. The neighborhood has become a cultural hotspot where visitors can experience authentic Ghanaian life, from watching the morning fish market bustle to exploring the area's growing reputation as an arts and photography destination, all while soaking in spectacular ocean views.

Top Jamestown

Ussher Fort and James Fort

These 17th-century coastal fortifications offer profound insights into Ghana's colonial history and the transatlantic slave trade. Ussher Fort, built by the Dutch in 1649, now houses a museum with artifacts and exhibits detailing the area's complex past, while James Fort provides impressive ocean views and historical context about British colonial rule.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically 10-15 GHS per person. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better photography lighting. Local guides are available for 20-30 GHS and provide valuable historical context not found in written materials.

the Jamestown Fishing Harbor

Witness the busy daily life of one of West Africa's busiest artisanal fishing communities as colorful pirogues return with fresh catches. The harbor comes alive in the early morning hours when fishermen sort their catch and women traders negotiate prices, creating an authentic cultural spectacle that has remained unchanged for generations.

Booking Tip: Best visited between 5-8 AM when fishing boats return with fresh catches. No entry fee required, but bring 5-10 GHS for tips if photographing people. Wear closed shoes as the harbor area can be wet and slippery from fish processing activities.

Climb the Historic Jamestown Lighthouse

This iconic red and white striped lighthouse, built in the 1930s, offers panoramic views of Accra's coastline and the sprawling neighborhood below. The climb up the spiral staircase rewards visitors with impressive 360-degree views and excellent photo opportunities of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the bustling urban landscape.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is around 5-8 GHS with an additional 10 GHS camera fee. Visit during late afternoon for spectacular sunset views, but arrive before 5 PM as it closes early. The climb involves steep stairs, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Street Art and Photography Tours

Jamestown has emerged as Accra's street art capital, with busy murals adorning colonial buildings and contemporary galleries showcasing local artists. The neighborhood's unique blend of crumbling colonial architecture, colorful fishing boats, and artistic expressions creates an incredibly photogenic environment that attracts photographers from around the world.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but organized photography tours cost 50-100 GHS and include access to private locations and model coordination. Best lighting occurs during golden hour (6-7 AM and 5-6 PM). Respect local residents and always ask permission before photographing people.

Sample Fresh Seafood at Local Chop Bars

Jamestown's proximity to the fishing harbor ensures incredibly fresh seafood served at authentic local eateries called 'chop bars.' Try grilled tilapia, red red (black-eyed peas stew), kelewele (spiced plantains), and fresh lobster prepared with traditional Ga spices and cooking methods passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Meals at local chop bars cost 15-35 GHS per person. Visit popular spots like Auntie Muni's or ask fishermen for recommendations. Eat where locals eat for the freshest options, and try to visit during lunch hours (12-2 PM) when food turnover is highest.

Getting There

Jamestown is located in central Accra and easily accessible from Kotoka International Airport via taxi (30-45 minutes, 40-60 GHS) or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt. From other parts of Accra, take a shared taxi or tro-tro (local minibus) to Makola Market and walk 10 minutes to Jamestown, or use ride-hailing services directly to your destination. The neighborhood is also within walking distance of Accra's central business district and other major attractions like the Banjul and Minsk.

Getting Around

Jamestown is best explored on foot due to its compact size and narrow streets that showcase the area's authentic character. The main attractions are within a 15-minute walk of each other, making walking the most practical and immersive way to experience the neighborhood. For longer distances or when carrying camera equipment, motorcycle taxis (okada) are available for short rides at 2-5 GHS, though they're technically illegal in Accra. Shared taxis run along the main coastal road for connections to other parts of the city.

Where to Stay

Osu (Oxford Street area)
Labone Beach area
Airport Residential Area
East Legon
Cantonments
Dzorwulu

Food & Dining

Jamestown offers an authentic taste of Ga cuisine and fresh seafood at numerous local chop bars and street food vendors. The area is famous for its grilled fish, often served with banku (fermented corn dough) and spicy pepper sauce, as well as traditional dishes like kenkey and palm nut soup. Popular local spots include Auntie Muni's chop bar and various beachside grills where fishermen cook their daily catch. For a more upscale experience, nearby Osu offers international restaurants and cafes, while the growing number of cultural centers in Jamestown itself are beginning to offer fusion dining experiences that blend traditional Ga flavors with contemporary presentation.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Accra

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Polo Club Restaurant & Lounge

4.5 /5
(2211 reviews) 3
bar night_club

Santoku

4.5 /5
(1265 reviews) 3

POMONA

4.5 /5
(1257 reviews) 3

Tunnel Lounge

4.6 /5
(928 reviews)
bar night_club

Tomato

4.7 /5
(878 reviews)
meal_delivery

Le Petit Oiseau

4.8 /5
(576 reviews)

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Jamestown is during Ghana's dry season from November to March when temperatures are more comfortable (24-30°C) and rainfall is minimal. However, the neighborhood can be visited year-round as most attractions are accessible regardless of weather. For photography and cultural experiences, early morning hours (6-9 AM) offer the most authentic atmosphere as fishermen return with catches and the community begins daily activities. The harmattan winds from December to February can create hazy conditions but also provide dramatic lighting for photography, while March to May offers clearer skies before the rainy season begins.

Insider Tips

Visit during the annual Homowo festival (usually August/September) when the Ga people celebrate with traditional ceremonies, music, and dancing throughout Jamestown's streets
Bring small denominations of Ghanaian cedis for tips and purchases, as many vendors and guides cannot make change for large bills
Learn a few basic Ga phrases like 'Ni o' (hello) and 'Oyiwaladon' (thank you) as many older residents speak limited English and appreciate the cultural effort

Activities in Jamestown