7 Free Things to Do in Victoria Island

Victoria Island in Lagos, Nigeria, is a bustling and vibrant area known for its upscale residential neighborhoods, beaches, shopping, and entertainment. For digital nomads who find themselves living on this island for a few months or longer, there's a wealth of experiences to be had without spending a single Naira. From popular attractions to hidden gems, here are nine free things to do that will enrich your stay in Victoria Island.

Bar Beach

Bar Beach, once a popular beach destination on Victoria Island, offers a serene environment for digital nomads to relax and unwind. Although the beach itself has been significantly reduced due to coastal erosion and development, the surrounding area still provides a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely stroll or a sunset viewing. It's a great place to take a break from work and enjoy the natural beauty Lagos has to offer.

Location: Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos. The beach is easily accessible and provides a view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Travel Tip: The beach can get crowded on weekends, so for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday.

Nearby: After your beach time, you can grab a coffee or a light snack at one of the nearby cafes along Ahmadu Bello Way.

Lekki Conservation Centre

The Lekki Conservation Centre is a nature reserve that offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle. Digital nomads can explore the longest canopy walkway in Africa, observe wildlife, and enjoy the serenity of the reserve. While the canopy walkway has an entrance fee, walking through the nature trails and bird watching are free activities that can be enjoyed within the conservation area.

Location: Lekki Conservation Centre Road, Lekki Peninsula II, Lagos. It's a green oasis amidst the city's concrete.

Website: https://www.ncfnigeria.org/projects/lekki-conservation-centre

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars if you're interested in bird watching, as the reserve is home to a variety of bird species.

Nearby: There's a café within the conservation centre where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after your walk.

Eko Atlantic City

Eko Atlantic City is a futuristic new development on reclaimed land adjacent to Victoria Island. It's free to explore this modern marvel of engineering, which is set to become a new economic hub of West Africa. Digital nomads can marvel at the advanced infrastructure and contemporary architecture that is springing up in this smart city.

Location: Eko Atlantic City, adjacent to Bar Beach, Victoria Island, Lagos. It's a symbol of Nigeria's rapid development.

Travel Tip: The area is vast, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city on foot.

Nearby: You can find a variety of upscale restaurants and bars within Eko Atlantic City to enjoy after your tour.

Nike Art Gallery

The Nike Art Gallery is a cultural gem on Victoria Island, showcasing the richness of Nigerian art. Owned by renowned Nigerian artist and designer Nike Davies-Okundaye, the gallery is free to enter and offers a glimpse into the country's vibrant art scene. Digital nomads can spend hours admiring the diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles, and other artworks.

Location: No. 2 Elegushi Road, 3rd Roundabout, Epe Expressway, Ikate Cross Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. It's a cultural hotspot in the heart of Lekki.

Website: https://nikeart.com

Travel Tip: Check for workshop schedules; you might get a chance to see artists at work or even participate in a workshop.

Nearby: There are several local eateries around where you can try traditional Nigerian dishes after your gallery visit.

Freedom Park Lagos

Freedom Park, a memorial and leisure park, is a historical site that was once a colonial prison. Today, it serves as a cultural hub where visitors can enjoy open-air performances, art exhibitions, and festivals. The park itself is free to enter, although some events may charge a fee. It's a great place for digital nomads to experience Lagos's cultural life and history.

Location: Old Prison Ground Broad Street, Lagos Island, Lagos. It's a place of reflection in the heart of the city.

Travel Tip: Visit during the evening when the park often comes alive with live music and performances.

Nearby: The park has an on-site restaurant and bar where you can enjoy a meal or a drink in a relaxed setting.

Muri Okunola Park

Muri Okunola Park is a lesser-known urban park on Victoria Island that provides a peaceful environment for picnics, reading, or simply taking a break from work. With well-maintained lawns and playgrounds, it's a favorite among locals for relaxation and recreational activities. Digital nomads can join in on community yoga sessions or enjoy the occasional cultural event held here.

Location: Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos. This park is a green haven amidst the city's business district.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for the park's schedule, as it sometimes hosts free fitness classes and other community events.

Nearby: There are several cafes and fast-food outlets around the park where you can grab a quick bite.

Oniru Beach

Oniru Beach is a popular private beach that offers free access on certain days. It's a great spot for digital nomads to relax, take a swim, or mingle with locals. The beach is cleaner and less crowded than some other public beaches, making it an ideal spot for a quiet day by the sea.

Location: Oniru Estate, near the Palms Shopping Mall, Victoria Island, Lagos. It's a tranquil beach escape close to the city's main attractions.

Travel Tip: Check the beach's social media pages for announcements on free access days and special events.

Nearby: The Palms Shopping Mall is close by, offering a variety of dining options for a post-beach meal.

Palms Shopping Mall

The Palms Shopping Mall isn't just for shopping; it's a social hub where you can experience the local lifestyle. Window shopping is free, and there are often promotional events and brand activations that you can observe or participate in. The mall also features a cinema and a food court where you can relax and enjoy the air conditioning on a hot day.

Location: No. 1 BIS Way, Lekki, Lagos. It's a central spot for entertainment and leisure on Victoria Island.

Travel Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Nearby: The food court offers a variety of local and international cuisines, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Silverbird Galleria

Silverbird Galleria is a multifunctional entertainment center that features a cinema, a shopping mall, and an events space. While movies and events come with a ticket price, exploring the galleria and enjoying the ambiance is completely free. It's a great place to experience the modern side of Lagos and see the latest trends in Nigerian fashion and entertainment.

Location: 133 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos. It's a bustling spot that reflects the contemporary culture of Lagos.

Travel Tip: The galleria often hosts free art exhibitions and promotional events that are worth checking out.

Nearby: There are several upscale restaurants and lounges within the galleria where you can unwind after exploring.

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy nature, or simply find a quiet spot to relax, Victoria Island offers a variety of experiences that won't cost you a thing. Enjoy your time on this dynamic island, and make the most of these free attractions.