Top 10 Things to Do with Young Kids in Lagos

Sometimes all little legs need is somewhere to run free, and Lagos has several well-kept playgrounds dotted around town. The one at Manuel Teixeira Gomes, near the centre, has slides, swings and soft, bouncy ground ideal for under-eights, with shaded benches for parents. A simple, free way to burn off energy between other activities.

Few things delight small children like a train ride, and the Lagos tourist train trundles on a circular route around the town and out to the nearby beaches. The full loop takes about an hour, tickets are inexpensive, and you can hop on and off to explore. An easy, fun way to see the sights without tired little feet.

Down at the marina, Zany is a relaxed café built with young families in mind: a play area, little go-karts and toys keep the children busy while parents enjoy a coffee or a snack in the shade. There are healthy treats and ice creams for the little ones too. A handy, low-key spot to recharge everyone at once.

A round of adventure mini-golf is a guaranteed winner with children. ProPutting Garden, right in the centre of Lagos, is a fun, well-kept 18-hole course full of quirky obstacles, overlooked by the old town walls. It's affordable, easy for all ages, and the kind of relaxed hour the whole family enjoys together. (Cash only.)

A great spot for older kids and energetic younger ones: the Ameijeira skatepark has smooth concrete ramps for skateboards, scooters and rollerblades, with friendly local riders happy to help beginners. Around it there's plenty of green grass and open space for younger siblings to run and play. A fun, free, outdoorsy stop.

For a beach day with little ones, Meia Praia is the easiest choice near Lagos. Its long, open stretch of flat sand has no rocks and gentle, shallow water — especially safe at low tide — with plenty of room for sandcastles and paddling. Beach bars are close by for snacks and shade, and the calm water is perfect for first swims. More on Meia Praia.

A simple pleasure that never fails: an ice cream by the Lagos marina, watching the boats come and go and the footbridge swing open. Stroll the waterfront, let the children choose a flavour, and enjoy an easy, happy break in the heart of town. The perfect low-effort treat after a busy morning.

A firm favourite with younger children, the Zoo de Lagos near Barão de São João is a compact, leafy zoo that's easy to enjoy in a couple of hours. Monkeys, colourful birds, flamingos and reptiles share the grounds with a farm area where kids can help feed the animals. Shaded paths and a buggy-friendly layout make it a relaxed, rewarding outing.

Out in Odiáxere, this large estate is a popular spot for children's parties and group days out, bookable in advance. It offers an indoor play space designed for kids, plus wide outdoor grounds with room to run, and the team can put together birthday parties and activities for groups and schools. A great option if you're celebrating a special occasion or organising a get-together with other families.

For a bigger day out, Krazy World (about 45 minutes east, near Algoz) is a firm hit with younger children. This animal park is home to rescued creatures from reptiles to farm animals, with feeding sessions, pony rides, and swimming pools and a splash area to cool off in summer. There's easily enough to fill a fun half-day or more. Worth the trip for a memorable family day.