Cotounou is a cosmopolitan city built alongside the Atlantic Ocean. The name "Kutonu" literally means, "the mouth of the River of Death," in the Fon language, and came about as a commemoration to the abolition of the slave trade. Today, Contonou offers a tourist with modern hotel and resort facilities, historical monuments, and sites of social, economic, historical and religious significance. A variety of entertainment activities such as nightclubs, movie theaters and restaurants abound within the city limits. The city also provides access to pristine and tropical beaches where water recreational sports and deep-sea fishing expeditions are available.