Accra, Ghana is full of energy and chances to connect with both the city and its people. With frenetic, bustling markets, community spaces like skate parks, and a nightlife driven by a vibrant music scene, you can’t help but immerse yourself in the rich culture of Ghana.
Community builder Sandy Alibo and musician Pure Akan share insights on how to engage with the people, music, and culture of Accra.
Sandy Alibo: I’ve lived in Ghana since 2016 and launched Surf Ghana to empower youth through sports. I recently helped build Freedom, the first skate park in Ghana, right here in Accra. My goal is to connect and inspire travelers and locals alike through activities like surfing and skateboarding.
Pure Akan: I go by the name Pure Akan, having spent most of my life in Ghana. I view it as home—a welcoming place that serves as a gateway to Africa. Ghana is vibrant with color, humor, music, and culture.
Why You Should Visit Accra
Accra acts as a home away from home for everyone. Embrace Ghana’s progressive art and culture scene, while engaging with the warm, inviting energy around you. Many visitors fall in love with the city so much that they choose to stay permanently. Below are some shared suggestions for making the most out of your visit to Accra.
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Connecting With Accra’s Community
Sandy: One great way to meet people in Accra is at the skate park I founded. It serves as a playground where youth can come together to learn skateboarding and have fun. We even welcomed famous artists like Kendrick Lamar during his visits.
Pure Akan: A visit to Jamestown, the oldest neighborhood in Accra, is essential for experiencing creativity firsthand. You’ll see art plastered on walls and houses throughout the area—the essence of Accra’s culture comes alive here. Explore the fishing community, the lighthouse, and local boxing gyms famous for producing champions.
Exploring Accra’s Markets and Culture
Sandy: Kantamanto Market, renowned as the largest secondhand market in Africa, embodies the essence of Ghanaian culture and offers a complete understanding of the city’s dynamics.
This experience also sheds light on the social and economic impacts of fast fashion globally.
I made the choice to purchase exclusively from African designers after observing the market’s influences. One shop I particularly admire is Lokko House, which promotes Africa’s urban art, fashion, and creative culture.
Engaging with Accra’s Vibrant Music Scene
Pure Akan: Ghanaian music is central to our culture. If you visit Accra, you might get lucky and see local artists, including myself, perform live. The nightlife here often begins around 3 PM and extends into the early morning hours.
Sandbox is an incredible beach club with views of the Atlantic, offering delicious food and cocktails—a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.
Sandy: After sunset, head to Bôndai, an eclectic international restaurant. It’s not just about dining; this venue proudly showcases contemporary Ghanaian art, creating an immersive cultural experience.
Pure Akan: For a true taste of Ghana, try the locally distilled cocktail, Kokroko, at the Republic Bar, a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Palm Moments is another favorite—a restaurant and bar where you can connect with Accra’s creatives.
Sandy: This venue embodies community spirit, bringing people together in a lively atmosphere that spills onto the streets.
Pure Akan: If you’re eager for more energy, visit Jamestown Coffee and the adjacent Alley Bar—a cafe that transforms into a vibrant bar by night. Together, we believe these spots provide one of the best nightlife experiences in the city.
Final Thoughts
With these recommendations in mind, it’s time to experience the vibrant culture of Accra for yourself.
