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PPort Elizabeth has a number of wonderful beaches including the Blue Flag King’s Beach, Wells Estate Beach and Humewood Beach. In addition, there’s the family friendly beach at Hobie, the relaxed spot at Bluewater Bay and the pristine sands of Sardinia Bay.
You might be visiting Port Elizabeth during the winter, but a good sunny day along the Eastern Cape shores will inspire you to take to the waves.
There are 6 swimming beaches, stretching from Bluewater Bay on the N2 towards Grahamstown, to Sardinia Bay in the west. The temperature of the water is warm, peaking at 23 degrees Celsius in summer and around 16 degrees in winter.
The city is very proud of its international Blue Flag status, awarded to King's Beach, Wells Estate beach and Humewood Beach. All have good water quality, excellent lifesaving standards, parking and clean ablution facilities. These beaches continue to uphold their Blue Flag status and are a proud attraction in the Eastern Cape.
King's Beach, between the harbour and Humewood, is the most popular beach because it has kiosks, restaurants, mini-golf and a go-kart track. Boat trips and deep-sea fishing trawlers leave from King's Beach; Humewood Beach is quieter and offers lots of shade for the sun-shy visitor. Wells Estate has a long pier over the dunes and the complex includes a paddling pool and waterslides.
Hobie Beach, although not a current Blue Flag Beach, is just off Shark Rock Pier. This spot is good for windsurfing and is popular because it's just a short walk from the Boardwalk Casino & Entertainment Centre.
Without a doubt, the most beautiful beach is Sardinia Bay. It's a bit of a drive from the popular beachfront hub, but it's well worth the trip. It is located in a marine reserve so there isn't much in the way of shops or restaurants, but its rolling dunes and endless sea and sand will inspire you.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)41 582 2573/5
Email: info@nmbt.co.za
How to get here
Fly in to Port Elizabeth from South Africa’s main airports in Durban, Johannesburg or Cape Town. Alternatively, you can get here by road along the N2.
Best time to visit
Winter is a good time to visit Port Elizabeth, although it is the rainy season – there’s still lots to see and do.
Things to do
There’s so much to see, including the Addo Elephant National Park, the Valley of Desolation, Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve and the seaside towns of Kenton-on-Sea and Jeffrey’s Bay.
Tours to do
There are several tour operators in and around PE that offer cultural and scenic tours. See the listed websites below
Get around
Having your own car to explore the surrounding areas is a good idea. Alternatively take an organised tour.
Length of stay
Spend 3 to 4 nights in Port Elizabeth and then take a journey of exploration through the Eastern Cape.
Where to stay
Enquire about accommodation at the various national parks and game reserves. The nature reserves also offer camping and rustic accommodation.
What to pack
You’ll be mostly outdoors, so pack your swimsuit, hiking shoes, water and sunscreen.
What to eat
Seafood if on the coast, and a traditional South African braai (barbeque) are always good options.
Best buys
Xhosa crafts.
Related links
- Alan Tours
- Calabash Tours
- The Garden Route Travel and Tourism
- Sunshine Coast Tourism
- South African National Parks (SANParks)
South Africa on social media
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