Lakka Beach is about 1.5 km long, a crescent of golden sand surrounded by forested hills and dotted by coconut palms. It’s a great place to experience local life, being in the vicinity of Lakka, one of Freetown’s southern suburbs. Depending on the time of your visit, you’ll see brightly-painted canoes, children playing football, or fishermen roasting the day’s catch on barbecues. Those who like to go swimming will find a few spots where the current is not strong, especially when the tide is out – alternatively, you can always walk to the small island on the northern end of the beach, which can be accessed on foot even during high tide.