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Ana Chaves Bay

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Ana Chaves Bay

Ana Chaves Bay

Ana Chaves Bay is a coastal inlet located on the northeastern shore of São Tomé Island. It serves as the primary maritime gateway for the country, with the capital city and its port facilities lining the waterfront. Travelers visit the bay to observe the port activity and explore the historical landmarks situated along its perimeter.

Getting There

The bay is located within the city of São Tomé. Depending on your starting point in the city centre, it is accessible via a short walk or a brief taxi ride, typically taking less than 10 minutes.

Duration of Visit

A walk along the shoreline and a visit to the immediate waterfront area generally requires 1 to 2 hours. If you intend to visit the museum at the southern end, allow additional time.

When to Visit

The bay is accessible year-round. Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. As it is the center of port activity, the waterfront remains active throughout the day.

Nearby Attractions

The bay is positioned close to several historical and administrative sites. You can combine a visit here with the following locations:

  • São Sebastião Museum: 0.8km
  • São Sebastião Lighthouse: 0.8km
  • Roman Catholic Diocese of São Tomé and Príncipe: 1.1km
  • Presidential Palace of São Tomé e Príncipe: 1.2km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Ana Chaves Bay

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Ana Chaves Bay Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

São Sebastião Museum

Museums & galleries

São Sebastião Museum

The São Sebastião Museum sits inside a 16th-century fort in São Tomé city. Housed in the old Portuguese fort built to guard the harbor, it displays religious artworks and colonial-era artifacts.

0.8 km away

São Sebastião Lighthouse

Views & landmarks

São Sebastião Lighthouse

São Sebastião Lighthouse is a white, circular lighthouse inside the fort at Ana Chaves Bay in southeastern São Tomé. Built in 1928, its simple form topped with a red lantern makes a striking impression.

0.8 km away

Roman Catholic Diocese of São Tomé and Príncipe

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of São Tomé and Príncipe

The Roman Catholic Diocese of São Tomé and Príncipe has its seat in São Tomé city. With more than half the population Catholic, it offers a close look at local religious life.

1.1 km away

Presidential Palace of São Tomé e Príncipe

Castles & palaces

Presidential Palace of São Tomé e Príncipe

The Presidential Palace of São Tomé and Príncipe stands in São Tomé city and is a 19th-century Portuguese colonial-style building. Until independence in 1975, it served as the governor's residence.

1.2 km away

Our Lady of Grace Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Our Lady of Grace Cathedral

A Catholic cathedral on Praça do Povo in central São Tomé, close to the Presidential Palace. It also serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of São Tomé and Príncipe.

1.3 km away

Our Lady of Conception Church, São Tomé

Temples & religious sites

Our Lady of Conception Church, São Tomé

This Catholic church stands on Avenida da Conceição in downtown São Tomé. It's a good spot to take in the simple church building along with the surrounding streetscape.

1.4 km away