🏖️ Kololi Beach: The Complete Travel Guide

Kololi Beach is the beating heart of tourism in The Gambia. Just 30 minutes from Banjul International Airport, Kololi offers beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, excellent restaurants, and easy access to the country’s top attractions.

If you’re wondering where to stay in The Gambia, Kololi is often the first — and best — choice for many visitors.

📍 Where Is Kololi?

Kololi is located on The Gambia’s Atlantic coast in the Kombo St Mary district, forming part of the greater Serrekunda area. It sits south of Bakau and north of Bijilo Forest Park.

• From Banjul Airport: 25–35 minutes by taxi

• From Banjul city: 30–40 minutes

• GPS: 13.4508° N, 16.7194° W

🏖️ Kololi Beach

Kololi Beach stretches for several kilometres of golden Atlantic coastline, with the most developed area around Senegambia.

Beach Highlights

• Soft golden sand

• Generally safe swimming (check daily conditions)

• Beach bars & seafood restaurants

• Sun loungers for rent (100–200 Dalasi)

• Water sports available

• Horse & camel rides

• Stunning sunsets

💡 Tip: Walk south toward Bijilo or the Sunset Beach Hotel area for a quieter, less crowded beach experience.

🎉 The Senegambia Strip

The Senegambia Strip is the main tourist hub of Kololi and arguably all of The Gambia.

You’ll find:

• International & local restaurants

• Bars with live music

• Nightclubs & beach lounges

• Craft markets & souvenir shops

• Currency exchange bureaux

• ATMs & supermarkets

• Tour operators

This area is busy, lively, and convenient — especially for first-time visitors.

🌙 Nightlife in Kololi

Kololi has The Gambia’s most active nightlife scene.

Popular spots include:

• Senegambia Beach Hotel – live entertainment

• Poco Loco Beach Club – late-night venue

• Joker’s Bar – long-standing expat favourite

• Numerous bars with live bands, DJs & karaoke

⚠️ Note: Nightlife areas attract bumsters and working girls. Stick to busy areas, watch your drinks, and avoid walking alone late at night.

🏨 Where to Stay in Kololi

⭐ Luxury Hotels

• Coco Ocean Resort & Spa – 5-star beachfront luxury

• Sheraton Gambia Hotel – international standard

• Sunset Beach Hotel – quieter location, great service

🏨 Mid-Range Options

• Senegambia Beach Hotel – central & good value

• Palm Beach Hotel – popular package holiday choice

• Bakotu Hotel – peaceful garden setting

💰 Budget Accommodation

• Oasis Apartments – self-catering

• Luigi’s Hotel – simple & clean

• Numerous guesthouses on side streets

🍽️ Where to Eat in Kololi

Local Food

• Solomon’s Beach Bar – excellent seafood

• Local chop shops behind Senegambia

• Serrekunda Market (short taxi ride)

International Cuisine

• Clay Oven – Indian (highly rated)

• The Butcher’s Shop – steaks & grills

• Luigi’s Italian – pasta & pizza

• Beachfront restaurants serving fresh fish

🎯 Things to Do Near Kololi

🚶 Walking Distance

• Bijilo Forest Park – monkeys & birdlife (20 mins)

• Kotu Stream – birdwatching hotspot (15 mins)

• Senegambia Craft Market – souvenirs

🚕 Short Taxi Ride

• Kachikally Crocodile Pool – Bakau

• Gambian Reptiles Farm

• Tanji Fishing Village

🌍 Popular Day Trips

• Makasutu Cultural Forest

• Kunta Kinteh Island (James Island)

• Abuko Nature Reserve

• Roots Heritage Trail

• River Gambia cruises

💰 Money Matters in Kololi

• ATMs: Ecobank, GTBank, along Senegambia

• Currency exchange: Multiple bureaux (compare rates)

• Cards: Accepted at major hotels & restaurants

• Cash: Essential for taxis, markets & beach vendors

🚕 Getting Around Kololi

• Walking: Easy during the day

• Green tourist taxis: Reliable — agree on a price first

• Yellow taxis: Cheaper but shared

• Bike rentals: Available at some hotels

Sample Taxi Prices

• Airport: 700–1,000 Dalasi

• Banjul: 400–500 Dalasi

• Bakau / Serrekunda: 100–150 Dalasi

🛡️ Staying Safe in Kololi

• Avoid empty beaches after dark

• Expect persistent vendors — be polite but firm

• Use hotel safes for valuables

• Agree on taxi fares in advance

• Watch drinks in bars & clubs

• Avoid drugs (very severe penalties)

🤔 Is Kololi Right for You?

Kololi Is Ideal If You Want:

• Beach + nightlife + restaurants

• Strong tourist infrastructure

• Easy transport & day trips

• Wide accommodation choice

Consider Other Areas If You Prefer:

• Peace & quiet: Sanyang or Kartong

• More local feel: Inland towns

• Budget/backpacker vibe: Bakau

❓ FAQ: Kololi Beach, The Gambia (Rich Snippet Ready)

Where is Kololi Beach located?

Kololi Beach is on The Gambia’s Atlantic coast, about 30 minutes from Banjul International Airport.

Is Kololi Beach safe for tourists?

Yes, Kololi is one of the safest and most tourist-friendly areas in The Gambia.

Is Kololi good for nightlife?

Yes, Kololi has the best nightlife in The Gambia, especially around the Senegambia Strip.

Can you swim at Kololi Beach?

Swimming is generally safe, but always check daily sea conditions and currents.

Is Kololi a good base for exploring The Gambia?

Absolutely. Kololi offers easy access to beaches, wildlife parks, cultural sites, and day trips.

Ready to explore more of The Gambia’s beaches? Check out our guide to all the best beaches or find accommodation throughout the country.