The Best Eastern Cape Beaches
The Eastern Cape of South Africa features some of the country’s most stunning and pristine beaches. Stretching 800 kilometres from the Wild Coast in the north to East London in the south, this region is renowned for its untouched coastlines. The beaches are nestled amidst lush subtropical forests, home to a variety of captivating birds and a diverse array of terrestrial and marine wildlife. Visitors can enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean as they relax on the region’s beautiful white Eastern Cape beaches sandy shores.
Eastern Cape Beaches
The Wild Coast
South Africa’s Wild Coast, also known as the Transkei, is renowned for its pristine coastline, featuring towering cliffs and secluded bays teeming with rich marine life, all set against the warm Indian Ocean. Along with its rugged landscapes, towering cliffs, desolate stretches of sand, and lush subtropical forests. This is also where it’s not strange to come upon cattle and other wildlife on the beach. All this makes it a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
How to get to the Wild Coast: Travelling to the Wild Coast can be an exciting adventure. Be catious especially when travelling at night, as cattle, goats, and donkeys cross the road as they please. Get to the Wild Coast by air or road. From KwaZulu-Natal’s Port Edward, South Africa, take the R61 regional route (future N2 Wild Coast Toll Route) via Bizana, Mthatha, to Port St. Johns in the South. From Johannesburg, check out our Road trip to the Eastern Cape.
Port St. Johns Beaches
Laid-back Port St. Johns, South Africa, is renowned for its scenic coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Situated at the mouth of the Umzimbuvu (Mzimvubu) River, the small town of Port St. John borders the Pondoland National Park, known for its lush green forests and gorges.
The region provides excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, snorkelling, and diving, particularly during the annual Sardine Run. The beaches are set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and vibrant natural landscapes, making them ideal for hiking and exploration.
Visitors enjoy the serene, laid-back atmosphere and the natural beauty, making Port St. Johns a perfect beach holiday destination. When it comes to seafood and fishing, ask the locals, and they’re sure to show you around and point you in the direction of that big one.
During your time in Port St Johns, the chances are good that you will meet other like-minded people from different countries and cultures all over the World. Visit the Coastal Silaka Nature Reserve, South of Port St Johns. When is The Ideal Time to visit Port St.Johns on the Wild Coast?
Where to Stay in Port St Johns
Amapondo Port St Johns: Discover the region while staying at Amapondo Backpackers aims to provide budget-friendly accommodations for adventure seekers. At Amapondo Backpackers, one can choose between a private room, a backpacker hostel room, or stay in the Amapondo self catering chalets.
Accommodation
- Self-catering Accommodation in Port St Johns, Eastern Cape: Consider Port St Johns River Lodge.
- Port St Johns Caravan Park: Port St Johns River Lodge also offers camping Port St Johns.
- If you prefer a luxury experience, I highly recommend the Umngazi River Hotel & Spa, also known as Umngazi River Bungalows. It is the best choice amongst travellers exploring or passing through. The high standard of service and amenities caters for all travellers. Umngazi offer elegantly furnished rooms, a swimming pool, and a private beach. Altogether a good restaurant, and facilities include canoes, hiking trails, and a fitness centre.
Coffee Bay Wild Coast
The Eastern Cape beaches around Coffee Bay are unspoilt and spectacular. The village derives its name from a ship that lost its cargo of coffee beans on the Wild Coast of South Africa many years ago.
Don’t be surprised when you see dogs and cattle roaming the beaches and streets. Coffee Bay, South Africa, is known as a backpacker’s paradise. To check updates on the Coffee Bay climate, visit Coffee Bay Weather.
Hole In The Wall Eastern Cape Beach
Located near Libode in the Eastern Cape, the Unique Hole in the Wall Beach consists of a tidal island that contains a natural arch (Hole) in the sandstone shale. The distance between Coffee Bay and Hole in the Wall is about 8 kilometres.
Looking for a hotel in Coffee Bay, look no further than the Greenfields Hotel overlooking the blue ocean. Flying in, the hotel is approximately a 1 hour 3 minute drive from the Port St Johns airport.
Morgans Bay
The picturesque Morgan’s Bay is a seaside village located along the Wild Coast of South Africa. Renowned for its spectacular beaches, with rugged cliffs, and small bays with marine life. This top holiday destination is the perfect place for those who prefer tranquility and natural beauty. Morgan Bay Transkei mile-long beach is ideal for walks along the unspoilt coastline with dramatic sea cliffs.
The warm waters of the Indian Ocean on Morgan Bay beach and lagoon is perfect for swimming and water sports. Its diverse ecosystems, offering unique opportunities for wildlife observation and exploration. Located in Morgan Bay, the Inchara River estuary is home to numerous waterbirds. Also known for its calm, shallow waters, making it especially popular among families with small children. Besides that, the Estuary offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, and bird watching.
Where to Stay in Morgans Bay
The beautiful Morgans Bay Hotel, which offer beautiful sea view rooms, with excellent facilities. Moreover, it boasts one of the best restaurants in the region. Pet owners would be happy to know that they are pet-friendly. Altogether a beautiful Morgan Bay Caravan Park with Morgans Bay Campsites, overlooks the ocean or the Morgans Bay lagoon.
Haga Haga Beach
The small coastal village of Haga Haga is a declared nature and marine conservancy area, protecting indigenous fauna and flora species. Located 60 km northeast of East London, the Haga Haga Nature Reserve is a secure and crime-free area. Here you can explore the unspoilt secluded beach surrounded by rock pools, river valleys and cliffs, swim in the warm Indian Ocean or try your luck at fishing. Home to the famous Haga Haga Hotel in Great Kei, and only 4 minutes walk from Haga Haga Beach. This beach hotel is 16 mi (25.8 km) from Cintsa Beach and 23.2 mi (37.3 km) from East. Although there is no camping facilities at Haga Haga, Morgans Bay is closeby. The Morgans Bay Eastern Cape Caravan Park and Morgan Bay Hotel is about 50 minutes drive away.
Beaches on The Sunshine Coast
The coastline of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, is brimming with pristine beaches, tranquil rivers, impressive cliffs, diverse fauna, and flora. Furthermore, the Wild Coast and Eastern Cape of South Africa are known for having summer rainfall.
East London Beaches
Bonza Bay beach
The lovely small Bonza Bay Beach is located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. This picturesque beach is known for its stunning views, sandy shores, and inviting waters, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its serene environment offers opportunities for various activities, such as swimming, and sunbathing. Situated just off the Quinera Lagoon in East London and offers the best of everything with excellent swimming conditions. Things to do besides swimming and taking long walks on the sandy beach are birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking at one of the many secluded nooks on the beach.
Gonubie Main beach
Gonubie Main Beach is a popular coastal destination located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Renowned for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere, the beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing. With its golden sands and inviting ocean waves, Gonubie Main Beach is an ideal spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventures. The area is also known for its picturesque views and abundant marine life, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Access one of the most enchanting and beautiful beaches in South Africa on a raised wooden boardwalk and the coach. Take your pet along to the pet-friendly Gonubie Beach.
Where to Stay in Gonubie Beach
The Gonubie Summit hotel is a 15-minute drive from Beacon Bay Crossing and Bonza Bay Beach, and only 10 minutes drive from Eastern Beach. Self catering cottages in Gonubie, visit Gonubie Self catering chalets, and for camping, visit The best Campsites along the coast.
Cave Rock beach
Situated between Hickman’s River and Winterstrand, the Cave Rock Beach is about 11 km southwest of the Buffalo River in East London. Unfortunately it is not a swimming beach due to safety concerns. However, it popular for surfers, and also for snorkling and diving due to its vibrant aquatic life. The stunning underwater fauna and flora, make this Eastern Cape Beach a unique diving destinations in the Eastern Cape.
Nahoon beach
Nahoon Beach, known for being pet-friendly, is one of the many pristine beaches in East London. The bay is surrounded by cliffs, that provides protection from the wind. With lifeguards on duty, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean makes it a perfect for swimming beach. For the latest temperature updates, you can check this week’s weather forecast for East London.
Looking for a place to stay, view the Nahoon Eco Lodge on Mackenzie, ideally located for those visiting East London. With their facilities and services, it’s the perfect place for a night or more. For campsites, check out Caravan Parks along the Cape Coast.
More Sunshine Coast Eastern Cape Beaches
Port Alfred Beaches
Kellys Beach
The 400m long Kelly Beach Port Alfred is one of South Africa’s prestigious international Blue Flag beaches near the Kowie River. Known for its beautiful sandy shores the serene beach is ideal for swimming, walks, and watching the sunset. The Royal St. Andrews Hotel & Spa Port Alfred, is a popular attraction only 12 minutes by foot. Known for the Royal Port Alfred Golf Club, and the Royal Port Alfred Golf hotel, 1,1 km from the Sports Green. The Shipwreck Hiking & Canoe Trails is within walking distance..
Kasouga Beach
Nestled on the Eastern Cape coast, the beautiful Kasouga beach in Port Alfred is a scenic gem. Its abundant birds and wildlife, is any photographer’s dream. The beach boasts golden sands and crystal-clear waters, a favourite among surfers and water enthusiasts. Framed by lush vegetation and breathtaking cliffs ideal for hiking. For self-catering chalets and campsites, visit Camping at Port Alfred.
Kenton on Sea
Fortunately, unlike many coastal towns in South Africa, Kenton has managed to avoid overdevelopment. Here, you won’t find any large malls or high-rise resorts as the small Coastal town focuses on natural beauty rather than retail establishments. Kenton is a picturesque haven where people live in harmony and take care of one another. The long untouched coastline boasts clear blue water fringed with exceptional rock pools with sea-life and golden beaches.
The tranquil paradise beckons nature lovers to experience the beautiful surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. It serves as an inspiring retreat for both tourists and locals seeking a connection with nature, as well as for those who want to take their furry friends along.
Bushmans River Beaches
The Bushmans River Beaches refer to the scenic coastal areas situated along the Bushmans River in South Africa. These stunning beaches offer opportunities for swimming and various recreational activities, such as kayaking, boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, as well as chances for birdwatching and exploring the diverse marine life in the estuary and Bushmans river mouth.
Shelley Beach Kenton on Sea
Don’t miss Shelley Beach near Bushman’s River Mouth, where rugged cliffs and clear turquoise waters create a stunning landscape. Check the tides at Kenton-on-Sea and plan your walk from Middle Beach to Bushman’s River Mouth during low tide, allowing at least an hour each way to return before high tide. The coastal environment can affect activities such as swimming, beach-combing, and fishing, and is essential for planning trips or walks along the beach. To ensure your safety and plan ahead, visit Tides at Kenton-on-Sea for the latest updates.
Kariega Beach
The tranquil Kariega Beach is positioned between the Kariega River and the Bushmans River, beside a nature reserve. The pet-friendly beach boasts clear blue waters, making it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. Located in Kenton-on-Sea, the Kariega Game Reserve and River Lodge is only 15-minutes from the Kariega Centre and about 13.7 km from Kenton-on-Sea Marina. Eastern Cape options for Camping near Kenton on Sea.
Middle Beach
Pet friendly Kenton on Sea’s Middle Beach is a picturesque coastal destination known for its serene environment and stunning views. Middle Beach, with its soft sand, crystal clear warm water, is ideal for swimming, hiking, fishing, and water sports. The beautiful rock pools where sea creatures are seen during low tide provide a tranquil escape. The charming Kenton on Sea, with our dog Dashuri, had a wonderful time swimming in the crystal clear pools.
Boknesstrand
The charming seaside village of Boknesstrand is one of the hidden gems of the Eastern Cape. Situated in the Ndlambe Local Municipality within the Sarah Baartman District. Boknesstrand, previously known as Jammerfontein, is a village located 19 kilometers southeast of Alexandria. The name “Boknes” is derived from the Khoekhoen language and translates to “father’s river.” The village is situated at the mouth of the Boknes River, which shares its name with the area.,
Located, close to Cannon Rocks, Kenton-on-Sea, and Bushmans River Mouth, the main attraction to Boknes is its peaceful, unspoiled blue flag beach and ideal water temperatures, especially during peak seasons when lifeguards are on duty. Boknesstrand is also well-known among anglers for its excellent fishing spots.
Cannon Rocks beach
The small seaside town is known as one of the best kite surfing locations globally and is popular among anglers. With its black rocks and dune fields, Cannon rocks beach looks quite different from most other beaches. It’s unspoilt beaches. Cannon rocks border the coastal belt of the Greate Addo Elephant National Park. A 7 km walking trail takes you through thick forests, cliffs, and stunning dune fields. The seaside village is home to the highly-rated Cannon Rocks Camping Resort within walking distance from the beach. For the Weather Cannon Rocks and more on these stunning places, check out our unforgettable 3 week road trip fromJohannesburg.
Port Elizabeth Beaches
With so many best beaches in Port Elizabeth, it isn’t easy to designate one beach above the other.
Sardinia Bay Beach
The exceptional Sardinia Bay is located in a nature reserve between the quaint seaside village of Schoenmakerskop and Seaview. Declared a Marine Nature Reserve, Sardinia Bay Beach is most famous for scuba diving and snorkelling and is known as the starting point of the eight-kilometre Sacramento hiking trail. Fishing, however, is prohibited.
Schoenmakerskop
The hidden gem of Schoenmakerskop is one of Port Elizabeth’s prettiest suburbs and begins where Summerstrand ends. For self-catering cottages and campsites, visit Camping sites Port Elizabeth.
The Willows Beach Port Elizabeth
With safe swimming beaches and a sea pool, the Willows is one of the best Eastern Cape beach resorts with beautiful self-service chalets and Willows camping facilities.
Jeffreys Bay Beaches
The laid-back seaside town of Jeffreys Bay, or J’Bay, is a favourite amongst many. Jeffreys Bay is one of the Eastern Cape beaches most popular for surfing. Indeed well known as one of the five best-surfing destinations in the World.
Dolphin Beach Jeffreys Bay
This blue flag beach is mainly known for its famous surfing spot called Supertubes. However, Dolphin Beach Jeffreys Bay also holds the annual Billabong Pro competition.
Beginner surf lessons are available at Dolphin Beach and are ideal for surfing as there are no rocks or significant currents. So while you’re at J’Bay, consider taking surfing classes at one of the few schools. Camping in Jeffreys overlooking the ocean.
Paradise Beach
With turquoise water that laps on the long sweep of white sandy beaches, Paradise Beach is quieter than most other Jeffreys Bay beaches. The beach is also ideal for those who like to take long walks.
Aston Bay beach
The beautiful Aston Bay lies between Jeffreys Bay town and Paradise Beach in the Eastern Cape. Aston Bay is home to the sought-after Lifestyle estate Marina Martinique. This is also where you’ll find the popular Walskipper restaurant on Aston Bay Eastern Cape Beach.
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So many beaches to visit. Thanks