The Gambian Coast

The Atlantic coast of the Gambia, nicknamed part of the Smiling Coast of Africa, is the country's holiday heart and its main draw for winter-sun seekers, especially from Europe. A stretch of golden, palm-backed beaches around resort areas like Kololi, Kotu and Cape Point offers warm sunshine, swimming and a relaxed atmosphere just a short flight from Europe, with none of the jet lag. Beyond the beach and its lively strip of bars and markets lie coastal nature reserves, mangroves and lagoons rich in the birdlife for which the Gambia is famous, and, above all, the genuine warmth of its people.

What you actually see

• The beaches - the golden Atlantic sands and resorts.
• The coastal reserves - the nearby birdlife and mangroves.
• The markets and craft - the lively local markets and bustle.
• The warm hospitality - the famous friendliness of the Gambians.

When to go

November to March, the cool, dry season, for the best beach weather and superb birdwatching, and the peak time for European winter-sun visitors; the summer is hot and wet. The compact coast, close to the airport, makes for an easy, short-haul warm-weather escape.

Honest expectations

The resort strip is developed and, as a package-holiday destination, can attract hustle and hassle from beach vendors and self-styled guides, so a firm but friendly manner helps; the beaches, while pleasant, are not the most spectacular in Africa. For an easy, warm, short-haul winter-sun escape with golden beaches, superb birdlife nearby and the genuine, famous warmth of the Gambian people, though, the coast is a welcoming and worthwhile destination.

Nearby

Banjul, the coastal reserves and the River Gambia are close by.