Robertsport
Grand Cape Mount
Robertsport, founded in 1856 and named after Liberia's first president Joseph Jenkins Roberts, is a small town on the Cape Mount peninsula in western Liberia. It serves as the capital of Grand Cape Mount County and is located near the Sierra Leone border. The town is uniquely positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and Lake Piso, offering a scenic coastal environment. Historically, the area was visited by Portuguese navigators and hosted a Dutch trading post before becoming part of Liberia through a treaty with the Vai people. Robertsport was once home to the Tubman Center of African Culture, established in 1964 to promote African studies, though it was destroyed during civil conflict. Today, Robertsport is gaining recognition as a surfing destination with internationally known left-hand point breaks such as Fisherman’s Point and Cotton Trees. The local community, including notable surfers like Philip Banini, supports a growing surf tourism industry. The town's tropical monsoon climate features a brief dry season and heavy rains from July to September, contributing to its lush coastal landscape. Robertsport remains a vibrant fishing village with a diverse population, including the indigenous Vai and other ethnic groups.
Tip: The best time to visit Robertsport for surfing and beach activities is during the dry season from January to March when weather conditions are more favorable. Visitors interested in surfing should consider connecting with local surf instructors and guesthouses, such as those operated by Philip Banini. Booking surfing lessons or accommodations in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons. While exploring, be prepared for tropical weather and bring appropriate sun protection. Visitors can also explore nearby villages and enjoy local cultural experiences. No specific ticketing is required to access the beaches or surf spots.
Interesting facts
- •Robertsport is named after Joseph Jenkins Roberts, Liberia's first president.
- •The Tubman Center of African Culture was built in 1964 but was destroyed during the civil war, leaving only ruins.
- •Robertsport's coastline features several internationally recognized left-hand point breaks popular among surfers.
- •The town was originally founded as a settlement for African American immigrants in 1856.
- •The Portuguese navigator Pedro de Sintra named Cape Mount 'Cabo do Monte' in the 15th century.
History
The region around Robertsport was first reached by Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra in the mid-15th century, who named the prominent cape Cabo do Monte.
A Dutch trading post was established but struggled to sustain itself.
In 1840, writer and slave trader Théodore Canot founded a settlement in the area.
Liberia acquired the territory through a treaty with the Vai people in 1849, and Robertsport was officially founded in 1856 as a settlement for African American immigrants.
The town developed as a cultural center with the establishment of the Tubman Center of African Culture in 1964, which was later destroyed during Liberia's civil wars.
Since the Second Liberian Civil War, Robertsport has been revitalizing as a seaside resort and surfing destination.
Place Guide
Fisherman’s Point
One of Robertsport’s main surfing spots, Fisherman’s Point is renowned for its consistent left-hand point break, attracting surfers from around the world.
Tubman Center of African Culture Ruins1964
Originally built in 1964 to commemorate President William V.S. Tubman, this site was intended as a global center for African studies but was destroyed during the civil war. Today, only ruins remain, serving as a historical landmark.
Cape Mount Peninsula
The granite promontory separating Lake Piso lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean, offering scenic views and natural beauty that define Robertsport’s geography.
