Ngor Island Dakar
A rustic, colorful island off Dakar, Senegal, offering serene beaches, vibrant surf culture, and a glimpse into Lebou traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the relaxed island vibe
Ngor Island Dakar
Best Time
Enjoy the relaxed island vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic, colorful island off Dakar, Senegal, offering serene beaches, vibrant surf culture, and a glimpse into Lebou traditions.
"Ngor Island is a beautiful and magical destination, offering a serene escape with clear waters and picturesque streets."
Boat Taxi Fare
Negotiate or confirm the 2000 CFA round trip fare for the boat taxi to the island.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The island is car-free; explore its charming alleys and beaches on foot. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Beaches
Ngor Island
Discover serene shores, from lively spots to the most peaceful, perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun.
La Maison du Bonheur
Near the second beach
A unique spot offering restoration and themed guesthouses with an atypical architecture.
Surf Culture
Ngor Right Surf House
Experience the island's vibrant surf scene, with opportunities for lessons and enjoying the ocean waves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Ride Essentials
Island Exploration Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Taxi Fare
Negotiate or confirm the 2000 CFA round trip fare for the boat taxi to the island.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The island is car-free; explore its charming alleys and beaches on foot. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Snacks & Drinks
Consider bringing your own food and beverages for a picnic on the beach.
Watch for Sea Urchins
Be cautious of sea urchins when swimming in the clear waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Taxi Fare
Negotiate or confirm the 2000 CFA round trip fare for the boat taxi to the island.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The island is car-free; explore its charming alleys and beaches on foot. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Snacks & Drinks
Consider bringing your own food and beverages for a picnic on the beach.
Watch for Sea Urchins
Be cautious of sea urchins when swimming in the clear waters.
Embrace the Vibe
Enjoy the laid-back surf culture and friendly locals. :smiley:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ngor Island is widely praised as a beautiful and magical destination, offering a serene escape with clear waters and picturesque streets. Visitors appreciate the friendly locals, delicious food, and the island's relaxed surf culture. Some minor concerns include being cautious of sea urchins and the potential for crowded beachfronts.
"Beautiful island. We ate, walked around and enjoyed the scenery. Very nice people."
Cherresse K
"It is a really nice island. If you come to Dakar, Senegal, I recommend you to visit. The beach is beautiful and the alleys are very pretty.
The sea water is very clear and beautiful, but be careful not to sting your feet with sea urchins while swimming."
Joo Bin Bang
"Our family visit to Ngor Island was an enchanting experience that catered wonderfully to both our young children and us as parents. Known for its serene ambiance and beautiful scenery, Ngor Island provided the perfect escape from the bustling mainland.From the moment we arrived, the island's kid-friendly nature was evident. There was plenty of space for the children to play and explore in a safe and welcoming environment. The pace of life here is slow and relaxed, which is ideal for families looking to unwind together.The culinary experience on Ngor Island was a highlight of our visit. The meals were exceptionally good, with a variety of options available to cater to all tastes, including the discerning palates of young children. Whether we dined at local eateries or enjoyed more sophisticated dining options, the quality of food was consistently high, featuring fresh, local ingredients prepared with care.Our accommodation added significantly to our enjoyable stay, offering utmost comfort and convenience. The room was spacious, ensuring that the family could relax without feeling cramped. The inclusion of modern amenities and the provision of hot water for showers made our stay comfortable, allowing us to feel refreshed and rejuvenated each day.In summary, Ngor Island stands out as a family-friendly destination that promises and delivers an unforgettable experience. Its blend of natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, culinary delights, and comfortable accommodations makes it an ideal spot for families seeking a peaceful retreat. For us, it was not just a visit but a cherished family memory we look forward to repeating."
Axel A.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Ngor Island, you'll take a boat taxi from the mainland. The journey is short and offers scenic views. Confirm the fare, typically around 2000 CFA for a round trip per person.
While not a formal ferry, boat taxis are readily available to transport you to Ngor Island. These are the primary means of access.
No, Ngor Island is a car-free zone. All access is by boat.
The boat taxi to Ngor Island typically costs around 2000 CFA for a round trip per person. It's advisable to confirm the price before boarding.
The boat ride to Ngor Island is quite short, offering a quick and scenic transition from the mainland.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets for Ngor Island itself. The primary cost is the boat taxi fare to get there.
Ngor Island is generally accessible throughout the day. The boat taxis operate during daylight hours, allowing visitors to explore at their leisure.
There isn't a specific entrance fee for the beaches on Ngor Island. You can enjoy the shores freely after reaching the island.
No, there are no advance booking requirements to visit Ngor Island. You can simply take a boat taxi to access it.
Absolutely! Ngor Island is a perfect destination for a day trip from Dakar, offering a relaxing escape.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
You can relax on the beaches, explore the colorful streets, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the island's surf culture.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes on Ngor Island, including 'La Maison du Bonheur' and 'MERAKI Brunch & Coffee', offering diverse dining options.
Yes, Ngor Island is considered very family-friendly, with safe spaces for children to play and a relaxed atmosphere.
Yes, the sea water is clear and beautiful, but be mindful of sea urchins while swimming.
The third beach on Ngor Island is often recommended as the most calm and peaceful.
🎫 🏄 Surfing & Activities
Ngor Island is renowned for its surf culture, with spots like Ngor Right Surf House offering lessons and ideal waves.
Yes, there are surf camps available on Ngor Island, such as Ngor Island Surf Camp Dakar Senegal, catering to surf enthusiasts.
Surf schools and camps on Ngor Island typically offer surfboard rentals for visitors.
Besides surfing and relaxing on the beach, you can explore local art, enjoy boat rides, and dine at various eateries.
Generally, it's okay to film with a GoPro, especially if you're not being intrusive. However, always be mindful of local customs and people's privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The culinary offerings on Ngor Island are also a plus for families, with a variety of options that cater to different palates, including picky eaters. Comfortable accommodations, if you choose to stay overnight, often feature spacious rooms and necessary amenities. Overall, Ngor Island provides a blend of natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, and good food, making it a cherished family destination.
🏄 Surfers & Beach Lovers
Beyond surfing, the island's beaches are perfect for simply relaxing and soaking up the sun. While the waters are clear and inviting, remember to be cautious of sea urchins. The island offers a serene escape with beautiful scenery, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to enjoy the coast and the ocean.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
While filming with devices like GoPros is generally acceptable, it's always wise to be respectful of local customs and individuals' privacy. The island's unique charm, from its vibrant beaches to its artistic elements, provides a diverse palette for creative projects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Ngor Island
The island itself is a car-free haven, encouraging exploration through its winding, colorful streets and alleys. Visitors often describe the experience as a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. There are three distinct beaches on Ngor Island, each offering a slightly different ambiance. The third beach is frequently highlighted as the most tranquil and serene, perfect for those seeking quiet relaxation. The clear waters are inviting, though visitors are advised to be cautious of sea urchins.
For those interested in the island's vibrant culture, Ngor Island is also a hub for surfing. The presence of surf schools and camps, like Ngor Right Surf House, makes it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers to catch some waves. Beyond the beaches and surf, the island offers opportunities to engage with local artists and enjoy delicious Senegalese cuisine at various eateries, making it a well-rounded destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
Experiencing Ngor Island's Charm
A significant draw for visitors is the island's culinary scene. From local eateries to more established restaurants like 'MERAKI Brunch & Coffee' and 'La Maison du Bonheur', there are diverse options to satisfy various tastes. These establishments often serve fresh, local ingredients, contributing to a memorable dining experience. For families, the island is particularly appealing due to its safe environment for children to play and explore, coupled with a slow, unwinding pace.
Ngor Island also boasts a lively surf culture. It's a popular spot for surfing, with dedicated surf houses and camps offering lessons and rentals. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or looking to try it for the first time, the island provides excellent conditions. The combination of beautiful beaches, engaging activities, delicious food, and a welcoming community makes Ngor Island a highly recommended destination in Dakar.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit