Grand-Béréby : Best Beaches in Ivory Coast and Eco-tourism

Grand Béréby: One of Ivory Coast’s Most Beautiful Destinations

Grand Béréby is, in my view, one of Ivory Coast’s most stunning spots. Why? For its wild beauty and authentic beaches, still preserved and far from crowds and mass tourism. Its bohemian, natural, almost untouched vibe makes it unique on the Ivorian coast. If you love nature, adventure, and peace, Grand Béréby will charm you. But hurry… visit now before it becomes too popular.

Between sea and forest, Grand Béréby offers full immersion in nature. Boat rides through mangroves are unforgettable, revealing amazing biodiversity at every turn. Watching sea turtles at sunrise is magical for all ages. Meeting local communities adds a rare cultural and human touch to your stay. Here, every moment invites you to slow down, feel, and respect. Grand Béréby isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a destination to live, off the beaten path, with a spirit of responsible, sustainable travel.

How to get to Grand-Béréby

Located 381 km from Abidjan, Grand Béréby is now accessible in about 5 hours by car thanks to the recently improved coastal road. In the past, this route was considered a rough track, and the trip could take up to 9 hours. Everything changed after major infrastructure upgrades for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, making access to this wild and preserved destination much easier.

Today, this modern road connects Abidjan to Grand Béréby via Sassandra and San Pedro. You can also get there by bus from Adjame station.

For those who prefer to travel faster, Air Côte d’Ivoire offers regular flights from Abidjan to San Pedro. A round-trip ticket costs around 100,000 FCFA (about €152). Once in San Pedro, it’s less than an hour’s drive to reach this natural paradise.

Grand Béréby: Between Hidden Beaches and Primary Forests

Portuguese navigators frequented the coasts of Grand-Béréby as early as the 18th century. In 1868, French colonists signed a treaty with local chiefs, making Grand-Béréby a strategic administrative post. However, this post was abandoned after World War II, marking a pause in its development.

It was only in the early 1960s that Grand-Béréby became a sub-prefecture, later gaining commune status in 1995. Since then, it has continued to captivate visitors with the diversity and authenticity of its landscapes.

Long, wild beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with rocks sculpted by the waves. At low tide, some of these rocks form natural pools—perfect for a peaceful swim in an untouched setting. Along the way, small secluded coves, accessible on foot or by canoe, offer idyllic hideaways for travelers seeking tranquility.

Inland, the tropical forest of Grand-Béréby shelters exceptional biodiversity: tropical birds, monkeys, and centuries-old trees. It’s a natural sanctuary ideal for hiking and ecotourism enthusiasts.

Thanks to its preserved ecosystems, Grand-Béréby stands out as a rare destination in Ivory Coast—perfect for those seeking adventure, total disconnection, and an authentic connection with nature.

Hotels in Grand-Béréby: Prices and Ecolodges

Hotel Baie des Sirènes – in the town of Grand-Béréby

A true institution in Grand-Béréby, La Baie des Sirènes embodies the charm and prestige of Ivorian hospitality. Opened in 1988, closed after the 2002 crisis, it reopened in 2016 with international standards. This 4-star resort spans 15 hectares along a pristine beach at the end of a calm bay dotted with rocks, offering an exceptional natural setting.

The complex delivers a complete experience: spa treatments and massages, swimming pool, bar with signature cocktails—everything designed for comfort and relaxation. Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and discreet luxury.

Rate: around 160,000 FCFA per night (approx. €243), including breakfast and lunch.

Tabaoulé Lodge – a luxury ecolodge in the village of Mani

On the stunning wild beach of Dodo lies the Tabaoulé ecolodge. In addition to enjoying golden sand and turquoise waters, visitors can try artisanal fishing, go diving, or take a walk through the surrounding tropical forest.

This pristine beach is a true sanctuary for the region’s sea turtles. Leatherback, Olive Ridley, and Green turtles come here to nest every year. The extremely rare Hawksbill turtle can also be found.

Plus, you’ll savor flavorful cuisine and enjoy creations from a skilled bartender who crafts exquisite cocktails.

The service is impeccable, and the entire beach feels like it’s yours. A true haven of peace for those seeking tranquility and total escape in Grand-Béréby!

Rate: 80,000 FCFA per night (around €121), without breakfast.

Chez Jojo: Bed & Breakfast by the Sea on Ménéké Beach

Chez Jojo is a charming Bed & Breakfast ideally located on Ménéké Beach in Grand-Béréby. What makes this place so special is the warm, personalized welcome from its attentive team and its delicious local cuisine, renowned for generous and authentic dishes. The modern, well-appointed rooms offer all the comfort needed for a relaxing stay, with breathtaking ocean views.

Throughout the day, guests can explore nearby traditional villages, discover the peaceful mouth of the Dodo River, or enjoy a canoe ride upstream. Finally, Chez Jojo is the perfect spot for those seeking a local, authentic getaway that blends sea, culture, and Ivorian nature.

Rate: 60,000 FCFA per night (around €91), without breakfast.

Hotel Katoum: Between Sea, Nature, and Local Traditions

The name “Katoum,” meaning “stone” in the Kroumen language, pays tribute to the hotel’s owner, “Pierre”, in French. Set in an exceptional natural environment, Hotel Katoum is a large property that charms visitors with its peaceful surroundings and an ocean-view pool—perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll enjoy a warm welcome and delicious cuisine showcasing local products. To enrich your stay, the hotel offers a wide range of activities: go trekking through lush nature, take a canoe ride on the Nero River to spot monkeys, or explore the natural pools of Tabaoulé—true hidden gems.

Rate: between 40,000 and 65,000 FCFA per night (around €61 to €99), depending on the view and room size.

Grand-Béréby Top Activities

In Grand-Béréby, every day is a promise of discovery and wonder. If you love authentic travel, here are five unique experiences you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

White-Nosed Monkey Watching on the Néro River

Among the must-do experiences in Grand-Béréby, monkey watching is a favorite for nature lovers. You can easily spot them in their natural habitat, and several options are available to enjoy this unique moment.

Our editorial team tested this activity with Hôtel Katoum, which offers a boat trip through the forest. The ride, though short, allows you to approach the monkeys peacefully and appreciate the richness of local biodiversity. The price is around 6,000 FCFA (€9) per person, an affordable way to experience authentic immersion.

Sea Turtle Watching

Between November and March, Grand-Béréby becomes the stage for a rare natural spectacle. Leatherback and Olive Ridley turtles come to lay their eggs on quiet beaches. Accompanied by a local guide and a conservation NGO (such as CEM), you can witness this magical scene while respecting the environment.

Boat Ride Through Mangroves

Far from the hustle of big cities, a canoe ride on the calm waters of the lagoons is both soothing and full of discoveries. Spot birds, mangroves, and traditional fishermen in a breathtaking setting.

Meet the fishermen of the Kroumen community, the indigenous people of the coast. By joining them at sea or exchanging knowledge about their craft, you’ll discover a vibrant maritime culture deeply rooted in this region.

Visit the Natural Pools of Tabaoulé

Located just a few kilometers from Grand-Béréby, the natural pools of Tabaoulé offer a magical setting to relax in the heart of nature. If you’re staying at Taboulé Lodge, you can walk there.

Important: These natural pools are only visible at certain times of the day, before the tide rises. After that, strong waves cover the basins, making swimming dangerous. It’s highly recommended to plan your visit early in the day to enjoy the site safely.

For the best experience, consider going with a local guide arranged through your hotel, who will know the right time and place to take you.

Sustainable Tourism in Grand-Béréby

Grand-Béréby is now a leading destination for sustainable tourism in Ivory Coast. Thanks to the commitment of local communities, environmental NGOs, and eco-friendly accommodations, the region preserves its pristine nature while offering visitors an authentic and respectful experience.

Initiatives such as sea turtle protection, sustainable mangrove management, and guided hikes led by trained locals illustrate the balance between tourism development and conservation. Choosing Grand-Béréby means supporting tourism that respects biodiversity, values traditional know-how, and strengthens the local economy.

Don’t miss the remarkable work of the NGO CEM , dedicated to protecting sea turtles around Grand-Béréby. Across more than 54 km of preserved beaches, the organization actively works to safeguard these species.

When to Visit Grand-Béréby? Climate and Seasons

Grand-Béréby enjoys a humid tropical climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, ranging between 25°C and 32°C. However, to fully enjoy its wild beaches, forest hikes, or sea turtle watching, some periods are better than others.

Best Time to Visit: November to March
This is the dry season, ideal for exploring Grand-Béréby. Days are sunny, roads are accessible, and the ocean is generally calmer. It’s also the season when sea turtles nest on the beaches, a unique spectacle that attracts nature lovers from around the world.

Avoid if Possible: June
June is the wettest month, with heavy rainfall that can make some paths muddy or cut access to remote beaches. However, the forest is lush and vibrant, which may appeal to travelers seeking a tropical atmosphere.

Grand-Béréby in August
August offers an interesting compromise: less rain than the peak of the wet season, cooler seas, and still very green surroundings. If you want to avoid the high tourist season while enjoying nature, this month can be a great choice.

Recommendations for Your Grand-Béréby Trip

Traveling to Grand-Béréby means venturing into one of the most authentic regions of Ivory Coast. But to fully enjoy this hidden paradise, it’s best to be well prepared. Here are some useful tips and common mistakes to avoid for a successful trip.

• Cash in CFA: ATMs are not always functional in Grand-Béréby. Bring enough cash for accommodations, restaurants, and artisan purchases.
• Mosquito repellent: As this is a tropical region, protection against bites—especially in the evening—is essential.
• Littering in nature: The beauty of Grand-Béréby depends on its preservation. Respect the environment and follow local rules (avoid leaving plastic, respect turtle nesting areas, etc.).
• Waiting until high season to book: Even though the region is still under the radar, the best lodges and guides often fill up during the dry season. Book in advance.

❓ FAQ – Visiting Grand-Béréby

🔸 Can you swim in Grand-Béréby?

Yes, some beaches are perfect for swimming, especially around protected coves. However, the sea can be rough in certain areas, so always check locally before diving in.

🔸 Which is the distance to Grand-Béréby from Abidjan?

You can drive to Grand-Béréby, which takes about 5.5 hours via San Pedro. Alternatively, take an Abidjan–San Pedro flight with Air Côte d’Ivoire, then drive for about an hour to reach Grand-Béréby.

🔸 What to do in Grand-Béréby?

Must-do activities include sea turtle watching, monkey spotting, hiking in the tropical forest, canoe rides through lagoons, and discovering hidden beaches.

🔸 Is Grand-Béréby suitable for children or families?

Yes, with some precautions. Families will enjoy calm beaches and canoe rides. Just make sure to choose family-friendly accommodations and stay cautious at sea.