The Ghanaian Perspective: Opinion Articles on Current Issues

Cape Three Points is a small peninsula located between the coastal villages of Dixcove and Princess Town along the West Coast, which is often described as the southernmost part of Ghana. It is in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region.

Due to its proximity to the Null Island, Cape Three Points is sometimes referred to as the ‘land nearest nowhere’. The Null Island is the location where the Prime Meridian and the Equator intersect at latitude zero degrees and longitude zero degrees (0°N 0°E).

It is a point in the Gulf of Guinea, about 600 kilometres (370 mi) off the coast of Ghana. The nearest land to Null Island is a small islet 570 km (354 mi; 307.8 nmi) to the north that is part of Ghana. The nearest point on the mainland is Achowa Point between the coastal towns of Akwidaa and Dixcove in the Western Region.

The village of Cape Three Points is the southernmost community in Ghana, with beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes. ‘Atinkyin’, the local name of Cape Three Points village, means ‘the salt has been taken out’.

Key attractions at Cape Three Points are its lighthouses, the first of which was constructed in 1875 by the British to aid navigation of trading vessels sailing through the Gulf of Guinea. After the initial structure deteriorated, a much bigger and improved one was constructed close by to replace it. The current structure, which was completed in 1925, is one of the seven lighthouses along the coast across four regions in Ghana. It is still in good shape and functioning. 

A view from the top of the lighthouse reveals a picturesque view of the rock formations dotted along the coastline into the sea. Also is a panoramic view of the Gulf of Guinea and the rainforest reserve on the west coast. 

It is said that one could also catch a glimpse of migrating whales and dolphins at certain times of the year. The lighthouse is open to the public throughout the week.