Elwa Beach is one of the Atlantic beaches south of Monrovia, about 15 km from the city centre, and one of the most accessible for a half-day trip. The beach is wide, the sand is pale, and the Atlantic surf is strong — not always safe for swimming, but spectacular to watch. On weekends, local families set up under trees and vendors sell food and cold drinks.
Facilities are basic — a few beach bars and food stalls — but the atmosphere is lively on Saturdays and Sundays. The drive south from Monrovia passes through the area that was heavily affected by the 2014 Ebola crisis, which gives some historical context to the drive. The beach itself is clean and uncrowded during the week.