Things To Do
in Saltpond

Saltpond is a coastal town located in the Central Region of Ghana, known for its rich history and vibrant fishing industry. It serves as a gateway to several nearby attractions, including beautiful beaches and historical sites. The town has a bustling market scene where locals sell fresh produce and seafood, creating a lively atmosphere.

Visitors to Saltpond can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the warmth of the Ghanaian people.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Saltpond
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Saltpond Beach, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore and take in the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some street food. Don’t miss trying kelewele (spicy fried plantains) and fresh fish.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby bar to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Insights
morning
:

Visit the nearby Fort Amsterdam, a historical site that provides insight into the colonial history of Ghana. Guided tours are available.

afternoon
:

Explore the local craft shops and art galleries to purchase unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional Ghanaian meal at a recommended restaurant, followed by a stroll along the beach to enjoy the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$8-15
🍕Street Food Snack$1-3
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$2-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20-40
🛒Groceries (weekly)$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and warm hospitality
  • Access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport can be unreliable
  • Language barriers may exist for non-local speakers
  • "Akwaaba" - Welcome
  • "Medasi" - Thank you
  • "Yɛn ara asɛm" - It's our matter (let's focus on our issues)
  • "Meda wo akye" - Good morning
  • "Nante yie" - Safe travels

Places to Visit in Saltpond

Visit one of these nice places.

Saltpond Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and stunning ocean views, perfect for sunset photography.

Fort Amsterdam

The historical fort offers not only a glimpse into Ghana's colonial past but also panoramic views of the coastline.

Local Fishing Boats

Colorful fishing boats lining the shore create a vibrant scene, ideal for capturing the essence of Saltpond's fishing culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saltpond

Saltpond offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Ghanaian cuisine. Local dishes are heavily influenced by the coastal location, with an abundance of fresh seafood and tropical ingredients.

Saltpond Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jollof Rice

A beloved West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, and spices, often served with grilled chicken or fish.

Must-Try!

Banku and Tilapia

A traditional dish consisting of fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia, often accompanied by spicy pepper sauce.

Kelewele

Spicy fried plantains seasoned with ginger, garlic, and pepper, commonly sold as street food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Saltpond Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local street food vendors offering a variety of dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saltpond experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from November to March, characterized by warm temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The rainy season from April to October sees increased humidity and rainfall, with temperatures remaining consistent. The Harmattan period, occurring from December to February, brings cooler temperatures and dry winds.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm greeting is essential; a handshake followed by a smile is common when meeting someone.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial in Ghanaian culture, often involving using titles such as 'Sir' or 'Madam'.

Dress Modestly

Modest dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas and places of worship; beachwear should be reserved for the beach.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Saltpond is generally safe for tourists, it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuable items and be cautious when walking alone at night. Local emergency numbers should be noted, and it's advisable to stay updated on local news.

Tipping in Saltpond

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants if service is not included, and rounding up fares for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is commonly used, but some establishments accept mobile money payments; it's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - March)

Expect warm and dry weather, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Rainy Season (April - October)

Frequent rain showers may occur, but the landscape becomes lush and green; it's a quieter time for tourism.

Harmattan (December - February)

This dry and dusty wind from the Sahara brings cooler temperatures, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

Festive Season (December)

The holiday season is vibrant with local festivals and celebrations, offering a unique cultural experience.

Nightlife Guide

Saltpond at Night

Saltpond has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several local bars and beachside lounges offering live music and entertainment. Venues often feature traditional Ghanaian music and dance, providing an authentic experience. Socializing is an important part of the culture, and locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Hiking in Saltpond

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kakum National Park

Located about 30 km from Saltpond, this park features canopy walkways and hiking trails through lush rainforest.

Aburi Mountains

Approximately 70 km away, the Aburi Mountains offer scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views and cooler temperatures.

Airports

How to reach Saltpond by plane.

Kotoka International Airport

Located in Accra, approximately 150 km from Saltpond, it is the main international gateway to Ghana, providing access to both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saltpond is moderately walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available but can be uneven in places, so comfortable footwear is recommended. It's common to see locals walking, which adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Fante Ethnic Group

The Fante people are the predominant ethnic group in Saltpond, known for their fishing heritage and vibrant cultural practices.

Asante Ethnic Group

The Asante people have a presence in Saltpond, contributing to the cultural diversity and economic activity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Saltpond, with local teams often competing in community leagues.

Traditional Wrestling

Known as 'dambe', this sport has deep cultural roots and is often showcased during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saltpond is generally light compared to larger cities. Local transportation includes shared taxis and motorbikes, which are common for getting around. While public transport options exist, they may not always adhere to schedules, so flexibility is advised.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saltpond.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional meals often include meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes like Jollof rice.

Gluten-Free

Dishes like banku and various rice-based meals are naturally gluten-free, but it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Saltpond are limited, with a few clinics and a hospital available for basic services. For more serious medical issues, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Cape Coast or Accra. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Ghana

Read more in our Ghana 2025 Travel Guide.

Ghana Travel Guide