Things to Do in Banana Islands, Sierra Leone

The Banana Islands are a pristine archipelago located just 20 kilometers off the coast of Freetown, Sierra Leone's capital. This group of three main islands - Dublin, Ricketts, and Mes-Meheux - offers visitors an untouched tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich colonial history. Once a strategic naval base during the colonial era, the islands now serve as a peaceful retreat where time seems to stand still, featuring crumbling historical ruins, traditional fishing villages, and some of West Africa's most spectacular marine environments. Today, the Banana Islands represent one of Sierra Leone's hidden gems, attracting adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences away from mass tourism. The islands boast excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, fascinating historical sites including old colonial buildings and slave trade remnants, and warm hospitality from local communities who have called these islands home for generations. With no cars, limited electricity, and a focus on sustainable tourism, the Banana Islands offer a rare chance to disconnect from modern life and experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Sierra Leone.

Top Things to Do in Banana Islands

Snorkeling and Diving Adventures

Explore the pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life surrounding the Banana Islands, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The clear waters offer excellent visibility year-round, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Several dive sites around the islands feature coral gardens, underwater caves, and shipwrecks from the colonial period.

Booking Tip: Arrange diving through local operators in Freetown before traveling to the islands, as equipment and guides are limited on-site. Costs range from $40-80 per dive including equipment, and the best visibility occurs during the dry season from November to April.

Historical Site Exploration

Discover the fascinating colonial history of the islands by visiting the ruins of old British naval installations, administrative buildings, and churches dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The most significant site is the old Government House on Dublin Island, which served as a strategic outpost during the colonial era. These atmospheric ruins offer glimpses into Sierra Leone's complex past and provide excellent photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: No formal tours are available, so hire a local guide through your accommodation for $10-15 per day. The best time to explore is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, and always bring water and sun protection.

Beach Hopping and Swimming

Relax on pristine white sand beaches that remain virtually untouched by commercial development. Each island offers different beach experiences, from secluded coves perfect for privacy to longer stretches ideal for beach walks and swimming. The beaches feature calm, warm waters protected by coral reefs, making them safe for swimming and perfect for watching spectacular sunsets.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but consider hiring a local boat operator for $20-30 per day to hop between different beaches and islands. Pack your own food, drinks, and shade as there are no beach facilities or vendors.

Traditional Fishing Village Visits

Experience authentic local culture by visiting the small fishing communities on each island, where traditional ways of life continue unchanged for generations. Observe local fishing techniques, participate in daily activities like net mending and fish processing, and learn about the islands' oral history and traditions. The friendly residents often welcome visitors to share meals and stories about island life.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through local guides or your accommodation host, offering a small gift or contribution of $5-10 per visit. The best time to visit is late afternoon when fishing boats return, and always ask permission before taking photographs of people.

Boat Tours and Island Hopping

Take scenic boat rides between the three main islands and smaller uninhabited islets, enjoying spectacular coastal views and opportunities to spot dolphins, sea birds, and other marine wildlife. These tours often include stops at the best snorkeling spots, secluded beaches, and historical sites, providing a comprehensive overview of the archipelago's natural beauty and cultural significance.

Booking Tip: Charter boats through Freetown operators for $60-100 per day including fuel and captain, or arrange shared trips for $15-25 per person. Book during dry season for calmer seas, and confirm that life jackets and safety equipment are provided.

Getting There

The Banana Islands are accessible only by boat from Freetown, Sierra Leone's capital city. Regular passenger boats depart from Government Wharf in central Freetown, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on sea conditions. Public boats typically run twice daily (morning and afternoon) and cost around $10-15 per person each way. Private boat charters are available for $80-150 round trip and can be arranged through hotels in Freetown or local tour operators. It's essential to check weather conditions before traveling, as rough seas during the rainy season (May to October) can make the journey uncomfortable or dangerous.

Getting Around

Transportation on the Banana Islands is entirely on foot or by small local boats, as there are no roads or vehicles on any of the islands. The main settlement areas are connected by well-worn footpaths and sandy tracks that are easy to navigate. For traveling between islands, local fishermen operate small boats and canoes that can be hired for short trips, typically costing $5-10 per journey. Most attractions and accommodations are within walking distance of the main landing areas, and the small size of each island makes exploration on foot both practical and enjoyable. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for sandy and sometimes rocky terrain.

Where to Stay

Dublin Island Guesthouses

Ricketts Island Beach Lodges

Eco-Friendly Island Camps

Traditional Village Homestays

Beachfront Camping Areas

Colonial-Style Island Retreats

Food & Dining

Dining on the Banana Islands centers around fresh seafood and traditional Sierra Leonean cuisine, with most meals prepared by local families or small guesthouses using locally caught fish, rice, and tropical fruits. The islands' restaurants are typically simple affairs run from people's homes, offering authentic dishes like grilled fish with rice and vegetables, palm oil stews, and fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and coconuts. Visitors should expect basic but delicious home-cooked meals, and it's advisable to arrange meals in advance with your accommodation or local families. Prices are very reasonable at $3-8 per meal, and the experience of sharing food with local families often becomes a highlight of the visit.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Banana Islands is during the dry season from November to April, when rainfall is minimal, seas are calmer, and temperatures are more comfortable with less humidity. This period offers the most reliable boat transportation, best conditions for water activities, and clearest skies for photography and sightseeing. The harmattan winds from December to February bring cooler temperatures and excellent visibility, making it ideal for diving and snorkeling. While the rainy season (May to October) brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, heavy rains, rough seas, and limited boat services can significantly impact travel plans and outdoor activities.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in small denominations as there are no ATMs or card payment facilities on the islands, and change can be difficult to obtain

Pack all necessary medications, toiletries, and supplies from Freetown as shopping options are extremely limited on the islands

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting villages and always ask permission before photographing people or their homes

Things to Do in Banana Islands