Lagos

Tarkwa Bay Beach is a sheltered bay on the Lagos coast, with a water surface often calmer than on an open beach. The prevailing wind generally comes from the SW to W sector on this part of the coast, which most often results in a side-on to light onshore wind depending on the exact angle on the beach. It is a spot where one rarely navigates in truly oceanic conditions, as the bay breaks some of the swell and chop.

Launching is done directly from the beach, with a fairly simple launch area when the crowd is not too present. The water surface depends a lot on the tide and wind level, but generally remains accessible and readable. At higher tide, the usable space reduces a bit and the water becomes cleaner for launching. At low tide, more sandbanks and a flatter area can be found near the shore.

The spot is rather suitable for calm navigation, with few clean waves and a fairly easy reading of the water. However, one must deal with local boat traffic to reach the beach, the crowds, and areas where people swim. It is not a technical wave spot, but rather a place to ride safely when the wind is well established and the bay remains clear.