Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only), Kololi ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

75 photos

Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) Kololi Exterior photo

Book on our site

up to 10% cheaper

than Booking.com

Key details

About the Hotel

Djeliba Plaza, Kololi, Gambia

Close to the beach

Very good

7.7

/10

3.8

3.9

Loved by Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) guests

Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Amazing location
Delicious food

"The private beach was kept very clean, but the only problem i had was walking along the beach you were permanently hassled."

Chris C from United Kingdom

read full review

"Private pool was beautiful."

Amelia from United Kingdom

read full review

"The pool is nice and the beach is perfect."

Wpnfm-fm from Netherlands

read full review

Location

Balafon Beach Resort is located directly on the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Kololi, The Gambia. The hotel is a 2-minute walk from Djeliba Plaza, where numerous beach bars and restaurants can be found. Guests can access the bustling center of Senegambia, just 2 kilometers away, via nearby taxis.

Dining

Balafon Beach Resort offers an array of dining options centered around the Bantaba Restaurant. The restaurant serves a buffet breakfast with eggs cooked to personal preference and a la carte dinner featuring local and international cuisine. Special dining events include themed music nights and BBQs throughout the week.

Wellness

The Planet Spa at Balafon Beach Resort provides a selection of beauty and massage treatments for relaxation. Guests can choose from services such as Bach Flower massages, Hot Stone massages, and traditional Turkish Hammam treatments. The spa also offers facials, manicures, and pedicures for a complete wellness experience.

Accommodations

The hotel features private swim-up pools, providing a unique way to enjoy the refreshing waters. Each room showcases a blend of traditional and modern architecture and is designed for guests aged 16 and older. The tropical gardens surrounding the hotel enhance the overall experience for staying guests.

Events and Business

Balafon Beach Resort offers space for private dining and events, ideal for special celebrations. The adjoining Djembe Resort provides conference and banqueting facilities for up to 800 guests. The location and amenities cater to both leisure and business travelers.

Highlights

Dining: Bantaba Restaurant with local and international cuisine

Wellness: Planet Spa with traditional Turkish Hammam treatments

Location: Directly on the Atlantic Ocean beach

Events: Private dining spaces for special occasions

“Focusing on adults only, this beachfront hotel brings a measure of serenity to Kololi, with its own private beach and distinctive blend of traditional and modern design. The on-site spa, complete with a Turkish Hammam, enhances the sense of escape, and the dining options range from casual beachside fare to eggs cooked to order at breakfast. From my perspective, it's a solid choice for couples seeking a more intimate experience on the Smiling Coast.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

View hotel on map

Highlights from guests

DiningTasty Dishes

The Lady Fish was superb. Breakfast had plenty of choice. The food was the best in The Gambia.

Geoffrey from Canada

Review on

Room FeaturesBeachfront Bliss

I liked the beachfront room and the ground level access was perfect for my disability.

Gordon from Australia

Review on

Spa & LeisurePoolside Escape

The beachfront pool was great! Two swimming pools provided a great escape from the daily heat.

Naomi from France

Review on

BedroomModern Comfort

The rooms were clean, comfortable, and spacious, meeting all requirements.

Ricardo from Portugal

Review on

View all

Select your room type

Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Double Room Garden View

2 persons

380 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

Fireplace

room details

Standard Room Garden View

2 persons

325 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

Fireplace

room details

Double Room Sea View

2 persons

380 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Sea view

Shower

Fireplace

room details

King Room Sea View

2 persons

380 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Sea view

Shower

Private pool

room details

Click button to see more rooms

Show all rooms

Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Very good

7.7/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Adults only
Luggage storage
Private beach
Currency exchange
Fireplace
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Horseback riding
Billiard tables
Darts
Table tennis
Aerobics

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Shops/Commercial services

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Dinner

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa centre
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Trouser press

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Dining Onsite

At Balafon Beach Resort, dining is an experience that beautifully blends African and European cuisines, all set against the stunning backdrop of a sun-drenched beach. Guests can indulge in a range of meal options, from delightful breakfast buffets to romantic candlelit dinners, creating memorable culinary moments to cherish.

Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) Kololi Restaurant photo

Bantaba Bar & Restaurant

African and European

Ambiance

Modern and romantic, with an inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners or leisurely brunches.

Key Offerings

Specialties include an à la carte menu featuring both traditional dishes and continental selections, along with breakfast served buffet style. The setting captures the essence of coastal dining with a touch of elegance.

Reservation

Not needed.

Open for breakfast, brunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktail hour; hours vary.

Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) Location

Djeliba Plaza, Kololi, Gambia

Map view

Djeliba Plaza, Kololi, Gambia

City landmarks

Nature reserve

Bijilo Forest Park

1.3 mi

Market

Craft Market

1.6 mi

Zoo

Monkey Park

2.1 mi

Landmark

Senegambia Beach

2800 ft

Landmark

Kololi Beach

2600 ft

Landmark

Amadou Tours

2700 ft

Landmark

Gambia Experience

3000 ft

Landmark

WOW

3300 ft

Landmark

TOP-SHOP Gambia

1.6 mi

Landmark

Sennegambia Craft Market

3500 ft

Landmark

H K Revolution

3600 ft

Landmark

Kololi Casino

3700 ft

Landmark

Aquarius

3900 ft

Landmark

Afromed Clinic

1.6 mi

Landmark

The Apple

4800 ft

Landmark

International Trypanotolerance Centre

1.1 mi

Landmark

Entrance monkeypark

1.2 mi

Landmark

Kotu Stream

1.4 mi

Landmark

Kotu Beach

1.4 mi

Landmark

Milli's Tourguide and Taxi Service in Gambia

1.4 mi

Landmark

Liv Bar

1.5 mi

Landmark

Kabbeh Travel and Tours

1.5 mi

Landmark

Katchikally Crocodile Pool

3.8 mi

Landmark

1st Gambian Cart Racing Track

1.7 mi

Landmark

Birdwatching in The Gambia

2.3 mi

Landmark

Best Bird Watching Gambia

2.1 mi

Landmark

Falutours Trips & Tourist Services

2.2 mi

Landmark

Happy Safari Gambia - Day Tours

2.2 mi

Landmark

Face the Gambia

2.2 mi

Landmark

Gambia Santosu Drives Experiences

2.2 mi

Nearby

The Apple

1900 ft

Restaurants

La Terrasse

1.5 mi

Sun Swing Hotel Annex

Manos Mediterranean Restaurant

1.5 mi

Near Poco Loco Beachbar & Underneed Djembee Beach Resort

Three Wild Monkeys

1.5 mi

Restaurant

Poco Loco

1.5 mi

Nr Senegambia Strip

Icey Wondeland

1.5 mi

Jabali Plaza

Manos Vip Bar

1.6 mi

Seaview Plaza Duplex Junction Poco Loco Street

Tapa Loca

1.6 mi

Bertil Harding Highway After Djembe Hotel

Cabana's beach bar & restaurant

1.7 mi

Kololi Senegambia

Solomon's Beach Bar & Restaurant

2200 ft

Palma Riva Road

Bite

1.3 mi

Bertil Harding Highway the Village Shopping Complex The Village

The Green Mamba Garden

1.6 mi

Next to Senegambia Hotel

Explore Kololi

Explore Kololi's Surroundings

Kololi Beach

9-minute walk

Kololi Beach offers pristine sands and vibrant atmospheres, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or beachside dining.

Bijilo Forest Park

25-minute walk

Bijilo Forest Park features walking trails and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature lovers and peaceful strolls.

Craft Market

30-minute walk

Craft Market showcases local artisans, offering unique handmade crafts and souvenirs, reflecting Gambian culture.

Monkey Park

40-minute walk

Monkey Park is home to playful monkeys and lush greenery, ideal for family visits and wildlife photography.

Birdwatching in The Gambia

9-minute drive

Birdwatching tours offer an exciting chance to see diverse bird species, with local guides available for tours.

Water Sports

9-minute walk

Water sports include jet skiing and parasailing, providing thrill-seekers with exhilarating experiences on the water.

La Terrasse

10-minute drive

La Terrasse offers a fusion of local Gambian and international cuisine, with fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.

Manos Mediterranean Restaurant

10-minute drive

Manos presents Mediterranean dishes, known for its cozy ambiance and signature specialties like moussaka and seafood.

The Apple

10-minute walk

The Apple features live music and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for evenings filled with entertainment.

Three Wild Monkeys

10-minute drive

Three Wild Monkeys offers a vibrant nightlife experience with themed parties and live events, suitable for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Kololi8 min · 2000 ft

Airports

Banjul International (BJL)30 min · 12.1 mi

Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?

Get exlusive rates right now!

Check Rates

Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:30

Check-out

from 06:00-12:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only) from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

At Balafon Beach Resort, guests frequently appreciate the hotel's location directly on the beach, finding it perfect for relaxation. The rooms are often described as spacious, with balconies that include deck chairs, though some guests have mentioned that the rooms are ready for modernising. Many also enjoy the outdoor breakfast served practically on the beach and the convenience of being within walking distance of various shops and restaurants.

Show moreShow less

Review score

Based on 338 verified reviews

7.9/10

Very good

80%

Recommend

Location

9.1/10

Staff

8.4/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.5/10

Facilities

7.7/10

Pros

Good location

Clean rooms

Friendly staff

Good food

Good value

Cons

Raw burger

Graham from United Kingdom

Couple

Double Room Sea View

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:February 07, 2026

9.2/10

Charming Beachfront Getaway

attentive staffpeaceful areatasty food

The staff was attentive and helpful. The gardens and pool area were peaceful. They were constantly cleaned and tidied. The food tasted good! I also walked easily to the main strip for a change of scenery.

The bar selection was lacking, as I noticed that cold beers were never readily available.

Service

10/10

The staff members were very friendly. They were always willing to help with any requests i had. The room supervisor stood out. He made sure i had everything needed with a warm smile. It was a great service!

Dining

9/10

Breakfast offered a good choice. It was a perfect start to the day. The tropical grass-roofed restaurant served one of the best breakfasts. I enjoyed equally good snacks and first-rate evening food.

Location

9/10

The location was perfect, central, and convenient. It offered easy access to places to eat. Supermarkets and shops were close by. Tourist taxis were right outside. It was all readily available and accessible on the same road!

Facilities

9/10

The hotel features pools just about everywhere, offering options for every guest. The main pool area did not disappoint! It was located right next to the restaurant. I noted plenty of sun loungers on the intimate beach.

Rooms

9/10

My room had sweeping vistas of the ocean. It was big and comfortable with a terrace. The rooms feature four-poster beds with mosquito nets. I did not get a single bite .

0 Helpful

Show less

Mia from Germany

Couple

King Room Sea View

5 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 14, 2026

9.3/10

Wonderful Stay with Really good Staff!

friendly staffhelpful smileunpleasant smell

The staff was friendly and helpful. Salifu Jammeh, the room supervisor, stood out. He ensured I had everything I needed and always greeted me with a smile. Adama Jammeh, the housekeeper, kept the rooms super clean.

I noticed some broken doors and occasional unpleasant smells in the room. The walls had stains. I suggest implementing a feedback system, such as providing cards to fill out twice a week during breakfast, to address any concerns about their rooms.

Location

10/10

The location is central and convenient. It is perfect, as it is close to various amenities. This positioning makes it easy to explore nearby attractions and enjoy local experiences without extensive travel.

Dining

9/10

The breakfast was delicious. It provided a perfect start to each day. The restaurant offers a good selection of dishes. I found the dining experience pleasant and satisfying each time.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel is well-equipped. I did not miss anything . The pool and gardens were lovely. I enjoyed relaxing by the pool. Everything contributed to a comfortable visit

0 Helpful

Daniel L from United Kingdom

Single

King Room Sea View

5 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 22, 2025

9.0/10

Really good Hospitality and Beautiful Location

friendly staffapproachable managerscomfortable roomconvenient location

I found the staff to be very friendly and helpful. The managers were approachable and ready to assist. My room was comfortable and clean. Food at the resort was a good choice, and the location offered easy access to supermarkets and shops. The beach was accessible, with security visible and present 24/7, which I found reassuring. I enjoyed watching the cows walking home and the locals enjoying the beach.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel features multiple pools available throughout the hotel. Most rooms provide swim-up pool access while the main pool sits next to a grass-roofed restaurant. This restaurant offers breakfast, snacks, and evening meals for the guests.

Rooms

8/10

The room was quite large and included a couch area along with a kettle. I found the bathroom acceptable and I had hot water. The provided WiFi connection worked properly and allowed me to stay connected with work.

Location

10/10

The location is perfect with the beach right there. I found the surroundings peaceful while still being close to nightlife options. A casino is located not too far away from the hotel, which provides another form of entertainment.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Balafon Beach Resort (Adults Only)

What kind of internet and entertainment options can I expect at Balafon Beach Resort?

10 December 2024

WiFi is generally stable, and in most rooms, TVs are equipped with Netflix, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of movies and TV shows.

If a guest wants to visit the pool and beach area, what is the fee?

22 January 2025

Access to the pool and private beach area costs GMD 1000 per person, which includes a lunch voucher valued at D400.

Can guests utilize the gym facilities at a sister hotel, Tamala Beach?

5 November 2024

Yes, access to the gym at Tamala Beach is available for guests staying at Balafon Beach Resort.

Are there tour options to popular destinations like Kunta Kinte Island and Goree Island?

15 March 2025

Tour packages to Kunta Kinte and Goree Island are not directly offered, but connections to local tour agents can be provided for such excursions.

Is there an option for an additional bed if there are more than two guests?

14 January 2025

An extra bed can be provided upon request. If already checked in, guests should provide the room number to facilitate this request.

Are beach towels available for guests at the resort?

3 February 2025

Yes, beach towels are provided for guests to use at both the pool and the beach.

Is there an on-site dining option available at the resort?

20 October 2024

An on-site restaurant is available, offering a diverse menu with local and international cuisine.

How far is Balafon Beach Resort from the Senegambia Hotel?

28 April 2025

The resort is located approximately 2-3 kilometers from Senegambia Hotel, making it easily accessible for guests.

What dining experiences are available during breakfast at Balafon Beach Resort?

18 June 2025

Breakfast is served buffet-style from 7 AM to 10 AM, featuring made-to-order eggs along with unlimited tea and coffee.

What currency is accepted for payment at Balafon Beach Resort?

16 May 2025

Payments can be made upon arrival, either in cash or by card, at the reception during check-in.

What types of massages are offered at the Planet Spa during my stay?

11 September 2024

The Planet Spa offers various treatments including Bach Flower massages, Hot Stone massages, traditional Turkish Hammam sessions, facials, and manicure/pedicure services.