Lagos with Kids: Tips for Enjoying Summer with a Small Family

Those of us living here are lucky to experience this amazing area all year long, but in the summer, Lagos really comes into full bloom. The extensive white sandy beaches, colorful cafes, and relaxed vibe make this a place that locals don’t need a vacation from. Of course, enjoying summer with small children has its own special challenges, requiring extra planning and considerations to avoid the strong sun, crowds and the kids´ need for movement and exploration.

As a mama of two small kids and the owner of Arco Preloved in Lagos, I speak to a lot of families every week. I have heard your favorite spots and struggles with navigating the summer in this area with little ones.

As promised, I include below a few top picks for enjoying Lagos with children in the hot summer. If you think of a tip that isn´t here please add it to the comments below!

BEST BEACHES WITH KIDS

MEIA PRAIA (NEAR BAR QUIM). Slightly off the main tourist path, this beach is vast, calm and family friendly. There is always parking, bathrooms, and the restaurant has good local food and drinks. If you come near low tide, Meia Praia often has tide pools that the smallest children adore.

PORTO DE MOS A Lagos classic, Porto de Mos is a large beach with several zones to choose from. You can be near the restaurants, bathrooms and parking, or walk further out where the feeling is more remote. Parking can be challenging on very peak summer days. Also keep your little ones away from the base of the cliffs.

INGRINA BEACH (outside of Lagos, for a more remote and unique experience). If you can do the drive, a day at Ingrina Beach is a must. This is one of the smallest beaches in the region and is full of charm. The sand is super soft and there are some rocky edges to the beach where kids love to explore for sea creatures. There is a café, bathroom and usually no problems with parking.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK WITH KIDS

SUNRAYS KITCHEN – The shaded outdoor restaurant is a local´s favorite with grass and trees for the kids to play around, great food for all ages, and off the main tourist path (though it does get busy!). My kids love the katzu chicken dish from the kids menu.

THE GREEN ROOM – Family style, tex-mex restaurant with a surf-bar vibe. Owners Hamish and Rita set up an entertaining kids corner with books and cars. The music can be pumping so be ready to embrace it. My kids always eat well and the play area allows me to relax for a while with a cool drink.

BAHIA BEACH BAR – Run by Maria and Toby, young parents and an Arco Family themselves, this casual but stylish beachside restaurant in Meia Praia is perfect for lazy afternoons with the whole family. Maria and Toby designed areas of the restaurant where parents can sit and watch their kids explore the sand dunes. The food and drinks are fantastic and kids eat well. This is a top pick.

O NINHO – A sweet, family café created by the owners Chiara and Mauro who wanted to provide a calm space for children to play. Great stop on your exploration of Lagos City Centre, where the cool café and indoor play space upstairs will give you the midday moment you all needed.

BUENI – A small, casual new restaurant in Lagos City Center, Bueni offers a simple menu that most kids enjoy, as well as outdoor seating on a quiet, pedestrian side street. The peanut husking at the table is a favorite amongst little ones, and the service is friendly (say hi to Kelly!).

Sunrays Kitchen in Lagos is a local´s favorite.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

LAGOS SCIENCE CENTER (Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos) – A great way to spend a morning (or afternoon) if your kids are above 3 years old. At this small, cool science center, kids can learn, explore and parents can relax a bit as they discover the place. There is an outdoor, partly-shaded play area in the back that the little ones love.

LAGOS ADVENTURE PARK (Parque Aventura Lagos) – A must-do in Lagos, this all-outdoor ziplining center is a great spot to bring kids ages 4 and older. With good shade, this is a peaceful, fun activity away from crowds. A great choice for when you are a bit tired of the beach.

STAND UP PADDLE TOUR (we love Arco Family @ nowhere2farsup) If you can get a morning free (just for you you mama, or you papa), this is an incredible experience. Try the sunrise tour along the iconic rocky shoreline. Dave is an entertaining and very professional guide. A total highlight.

LATE AFTERNOON STROLL AROUND PONTE DE PIEDADE. Great for all ages, especially if you need to walk with a stroller, these newly built wooden paths are extensive, easily accessible, and lead to beautiful views. Make sure to wear a hat and avoid peak heat.

ARCO PRELOVED SHOP – Of course, you should come by Arco for a cool, calm pause during your day out in Lagos City Centre. The sofa is meant for parents (and grandparents) to relax while their little ones enjoy a quiet moment of play in our kids corner. And if you need anything for your kids – including sun hats, swimwear and summer clothes – this is the first place to look.

Come by Arco Preloved - our shop in Lagos - for a little pause in your day out with the family. We have a kids corner and a sofa for you to take a moment and relax!

Let us know if you have more suggestions for enjoying Lagos in the summer with kids by posting in the comments below.

Enjoy!