From art galleries and beachside swims to late-night bikers and colonial streetscapes, photographer Alexander Stone lets us in on a day spent soaking up the colour, energy, and rhythm of Ghana’s capital.
“It’s a city meant for exploring, going out, soaking it all in, having a drink, and just seeing what happens.”
IT IS SOMETHING I REALLY LOVE
Alexander Stone’s day in Accra begins in the quiet of his mother-in-law’s house, but it doesn’t stay quiet for long.
By mid-morning, he’s already immersed in the city’s art scene, first stopping by the Nubuke Foundation and then making his way to Gallery 1957 with his brother-in-law.
These aren’t just gallery visits for the sake of culture-ticking. For Alexander, they’re an essential part of understanding Accra’s pace, its blend of tradition and contemporary life, and its unpolished but compelling energy.
“There’s a beautiful blend of the old and the new,” he says. “Where traditional elements mix with modern. The energy of the city, especially at night, is something I really love; I vividly remember the first time I came, how the music jumped out to me – you could hear good tunes in so many different spots.”
Though best known for his creative work behind the camera, Alexander is also a keen observer of people and the culture around him.
Coming to Accra from London, where he’s based, offers a jarring but welcome contrast. “It has a hectic charm and is an exciting place to be. Coming here from London, where I live, it just makes parts of life at home feel very dull: overly-ordered and restrained.”
Accra, in his eyes, isn’t designed to tick off major attractions. It’s a city made for wandering—ideally without an agenda.
“It’s not a place full of typical tourist attractions that you feel obligated to see; instead, it’s a city meant for exploring, going out, soaking it all in, having a drink, and just seeing what happens.”
Later in the day, Alexander finds some calm at Labadi Beach Hotel—swimming, eating, and watching pick-up football matches unfold nearby. “Football is a constant presence,” he says. “You see it everywhere—outside the stadium, at Labadi Beach, near the Jamestown lighthouse. Black Stars shirts are sold on every corner.”
It’s this blend of everyday beauty and street-level vibrancy that keeps him coming back. His most recent visit held special significance—it was his first time in Accra since his son was born. His son’s name, NiiLante, comes from Jamestown, a historically rich neighbourhood known for its boxing gyms, murals, sea air, and tightly-knit community.
“People in Ghana are friendly and welcoming, moving at their own pace,” he reflects. “When we had a chat and they heard my son’s name, they told me I needed to bring him with me next time—and come back speaking Ga.”
That openness is felt everywhere, but it’s especially tangible in Jamestown, where Alexander ends his day.
“Jamestown is a place where life spills onto the streets—football games play out on asymmetrical, uneven courts, and the sea breeze drifts through crumbling colonial buildings.”
He’d heard about a group of bikers who gather there on Sundays to perform tricks, so he went down to capture the scene on camera.
“These are from that day,” he says of his photographs. “I went back the following week, but they were gone—apparently chased off by the police.”
Accra, like its people, doesn’t hurry. It also doesn’t pretend to be anything it isn’t. That sense of self is part of its appeal—and something Alexander encourages visitors to embrace.
“Let go of time constraints and embrace the idea that things will happen when they happen,” he advises. “Lean into this mindset, and everything will feel simpler and more enjoyable.”
When asked what he recommends to newcomers, he doesn’t reach for the obvious. “Indulge in lots of delicious food—jollof with shito, kelewele, try some Kenke and Banku. Fresh coconut for breakfast is a staple for us.”
He suggests getting out of the city for a day—Busua Beach is a good shout for surf and sea—but he’s also quick to name a few favourites for nights out. “Sol Bar is a fantastic pre-party spot, and I like Sandbox too.”
One final tip? “Don’t dress like a backpacker,” he says, smiling. “Flip flops and vests are for the beach, not the bar or restaurant.”
There’s no dramatic ending to his day—no grand finale. The bikers fade into the evening. The city settles into the night. And that’s part of the charm. Accra isn’t a place that performs for you. It’s a place that invites you to join the flow—and if you’re lucky, to stay a while.
All images by Alexander Stone.
You can follow Alexander’s work on Instagram: snapsbyastone