Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
Once you've booked your hotel or Port Elizabeth accommodation explore our destination pages below for info on attractions and what to do in the greater Port Elizabeth Region.
The Nelson Mandela Metro (including Port Elizabeth, Uitenhage and Despatch) is the gateway to the Eastern Cape Region, its well-equipped airport and harbour linking South Africa with other national and international destinations.
Known as the "Friendly City", Port Elizabeth is located on the south-eastern coast, 763 km east of Cape Town. A superb value-for-money holiday base, Port Elizabeth offers a diverse selection of attractions as a family-fun holiday destination including scenic nature trails, historic heritage, magnificent wildlife, cultural experiences and countless water sport activities. Algoa Bay's 40 km of breathtaking coastline boasts a perfect combination of warm water, protected beaches and is complemented by Port Elizabeth's wonderful climate, which has been rated as having the fourth best weather of any coastal city in the world. The area also supports the most diverse array of vegetation types in South Africa as five of the country's seven terrestrial biogeographic areas are represented in the Eastern Cape.
The Bay, which is a favoured draw-card for beach and watersport enthusiasts is fast becoming known as South Africa's watersport capital and offers activity throughout the year, especially wind-surfing and fishing. In fact, Algoa Bay is regarded as one of the best sailing venues in the world, while scuba diving is of world class quality with beautiful reefs, shipwrecks, fish and colourful coral species.
Additional Reading:
For more info about Port Elizabeth see our articles on the SA Travel News Blog:
• Discovering the Riches of the Bay (a historical tour of Port Elizabeth) • Port Elizabeth One of the "Big Five" Cities
Destinations / Suburbs of Port Elizabeth
Beachview
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Beachview
The little village of Beachview that earned its name for obvious reasons when one considers the spectacular view of the beach from the homes here, lies on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth - about 25 kilometres from the city centre ... beachview information
Bethelsdorp
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
The little village of Beachview that earned its name for obvious reasons when one considers the spectacular view of the beach from the homes here, lies on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth - about 25 kilometres from the city centre ... bethelsdorp information
Blue Horizon Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Blue Horizon Bay
The peaceful, little village of Blue Horizon Bay lies comfortably between Port Elizabeth and Jeffreys Bay, a seaside hamlet that offers beautiful sandy beaches, and scenery to match. Blue Horizon Bay lies almost precisely equidistant ... blue horizon bay information
Bluewater Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Bluewater Bay
Considered one of Port Elizabeth’s northern beaches, Bluewater Bay lies midway between the friendly city and the deep water harbour development at Coega, and is renowned for its fantastic views across Algoa Bay, its ... bluewater bay information
Central Hill
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Central Hill
Part of Port Elizabeth’s inner city revitalisation, Central Hill - along with its neighbours Baakens River and Richmond Hill - is busy receiving a major facelift and is perceived by investors as prime property, particularly ... central hill information
Chelsea Conservancy
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Chelsea Conservancy
The unspoilt beaches of Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve lie just beyond the Chelsea Conservancy. This part of the world offers incredible views of the sea, dune vegetation, dense dune scrub, fynbos and, at the right time of ... chelsea conservancy information
Cotswold
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
Cotswold is a small suburb of Port Elizabeth, neighbour to Fernglen and the business district of Newton Park, the neighbourhood lies due west of Port Elizabeth's North End and a quick drive along Burt Drive ... cotswold information
Glendinningvale
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Glendinningvale
Glendinningvale, in the heart of the city of Port Elizabeth - known contradictorily as both the windy and the friendly city (although the former is a little unfair given that PE has the 4th best weather in the world) - is ... glendinningvale information
Greenacres
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Greenacres
The leafy suburb of Greenacres, perfectly situated - if you consider its proximity to beaches, the main freeway system, the Kempston Road area and the airport - for those on business or holiday, is virtually synonymous with ... greenacres information
Humerail
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Humerail
Close to the beaches of Port Elizabeth, and touted as the latest ‘designer suburb’, Humerail - with homes that are worth well into the double digit millions because of the incredible views they offer over Algoa Bay - lies just off ... humerail information
Humewood
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Humewood
The beach suburb of Humewood, a stone’s throw from Kings Beach and Humewood beach (both with blue flag status), has earned its place on the map due mainly to its challenging links golf course, ranked as one of the top 10 golf ... humewood information
Kini Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Kini Bay
The pretty coastal hamlet of Kini Bay lies on the Sunshine Coast between Algoa Bay and Jeffreys Bay just 15 minutes’ drive from Port Elizabeth. Yet it has a distinct sense of isolation and charm that make it so attractive to ... kini bay information
Lorraine
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
Lorraine, along with Theescombe and Sherwood, is one of the fastest growing suburbs of the city known as both the friendly and the windy city. It sits to the west of the central business district, close to ... lorraine information
Lovemore Heights
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Lovemore Heights
Set on the outskirts of the centre of the friendly city of Port Elizabeth, Lovemore Heights’ main allure is the incredible sea views it offers over the Indian Ocean from where it sits, perched on an incline. The other ... lovemore heights information
Maitlands
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Maitlands
A mere 30 kilometres from Port Elizabeth transports you into a very different world. The Maitlands River mouth makes for a peaceful and slow existence with very little to remind one that man has stamped his footprint on almost ... lovemore heights information
Mill Park
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Mill Park
Known as Port Elizabeth’s garden suburb because of the leafy streets and large gardens, Mill Park lies in the heart of the city, close to Greenacres Shopping centre, the Port Elizabeth golf club and St George’s Park. Residents ... mill park information
New Brighton
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
New Brighton is Port Elizabeth's oldest existing township, north of the CBD and just east of Algoa Park. It is historically relevant having come through the apartheid years, and as such, has a museum and other ... new brighton information
Noordhoek
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
The Port Elizabeth coastline is a treasure trove of nooks and crannies, hidden stretches known only to locals and adventurous explorers. Noordhoek is situated along Marine Drive, en-route to Schoenmakerskop... noordhoek information
Redhouse
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Redhouse
The picturesque little village of Redhouse - the epitome of tranquillity - lies positioned right on the edge of the Swartkops River, about 15 minutes drive from Port Elizabeth. Life here is all about the river, its estuary and ... redhouse information
Richmond Hill
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Richmond Hill
Richmond Hill is a portion of the city in which time has stood still, and, if you’re prepared to slow down enough to explore on foot or bicycle, will reward with some fascinating finds - make sure you head up to see the Old ... richmond hill information
Sardinia Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Sardinia Bay
Sardinia Bay is one of those delightfully elusive coves that has managed to retain a certain amount of anonymity, despite being one of Port Elizabeth’s lesser discovered gems. Whilst the locals know all about ... sardinia bay information
Seaview
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Seaview
Virtually just up the road from the beautiful Maitland River mouth, with its incredible sand dunes, lies the quaint little village of Seaview, famed for its Seaview Game and Lion Park, just 25 kilometres west of the friendly ... seaview information
South End
Where to Stay: Accommodation in South End
The suburb of South End, as it's name suggests, lies just to the south of the centre of Port Elizabeth overlooking the harbour. It lies between Humewood and the centre of the city, east of Settlers Park Nature Reserve, a prime spot to base... south-end information
St Georges Park
Where to Stay: Accommodation in St Georges Park
St George’s Park lies in the heart of Port Elizabeth, a tribute to the past and present day moments away from the noise of the city. Many a picnic party takes place here and the Mannville Open Air Theatre and the art ... st georges park information
Summerstrand
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Summerstrand
You couldn’t be more centrally placed in Port Elizabeth, by staying in Summerstrand, if you tried. This elegant, upmarket suburb is close to the beachfront, the Boardwalk Casino complex, the Summerstrand village shopping ... summerstrand information
Theescombe
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
Lying just off the Kragga Kamma Road out of Port Elizabeth, Theescombe, neighbour to Lovemore Heights, Colleen Glen and just inland from desirable out-of-the-way beaches like Sardinia Bay, Kini Bay and Seaview, is a bit ... theescombe information
Uitenhage
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
Lying on the Zwartkops River just 38 kilometres north west of Port Elizabeth, Uitenhage is also known as the Garden Town for its gorgeous position in the foothills of the Winterhoek Mountains, its many rambling parks ... uitenhage information
Van Stadens
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
The beautiful Van Stadens River area is a particularly unspoilt and natural spot still typical of the Eastern Cape that lies between Port Elizabeth and Jeffrey’s Bay. It isn’t difficult to understand the attraction of ... van stadens information
Walmer
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Walmer
Walmer, a rather posh suburb of Port Elizabeth with its wide tree lined streets, is something of an establishment - a number of the city’s oldest families live here, and businesses too are lining up for their share of the large ... walmer information
Westlands
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Westlands
Close enough to Port Elizabeth to reach the centre and do all the touristy things, and yet far enough away from the noise and race of daily living, Westlands is a perfect base when staying Port Elizabeth. This part of a town ... westlands information
Woodlands
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Woodlands
Tucked in amongst other residential suburbs like Goldwater, Weybridge Park and Lorraine, Woodlands lies just south of the N2 and minutes from the centre of Port Elizabeth despite being in the 'burbs'. It is a quiet suburb with ... Woodlands information
Visitorials: We Love South Africa
Port Elizabeth Visitorial
I Love Port Elizabeth because ...
Featured in: Visitorials: We Love South Africa
We’ve asked those in the know to share their favourites things about Port Elizabeth. Find out where locals go for the best cup of coffee, lunch suggestions and much more. We’re letting you in on all of their secrets ... I Love Port Elizabeth because ...
Port Elizabeth
Featured and "Must See" Attractions in Port Elizabeth
Bayworld Museum Complex
The Main Museum of Bayworld blends cultural and natural history. Embark on an exciting journey through time and through the fascinating world around us. Marvel at the diversity of museum displays, from prehistoric dinosaurs to ethnic beadwork as well as a variety of historical treasures that will ... more information
Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Cape Recife Nature Reserve is one of the best bird-watching locations in Port Elizabeth. The Cape Recife Nature Reserve offers beautiful beach, natural dune vegetation of fynbos, rocky outcrops, view birdlife from bird hide, small animals (look out for otters), a 133 year old lighthouse and a World War II military ... more information
Donkin Heritage Trail
The Donkin Heritage Trail is named after the Acting Governor of the Cape Colony at the time, Sir Rufane Donkin. South Africans are well acquainted with the history of the 4000 British settlers who arrived by ship and visitors can walk in their footsteps in the Old Hill area of Port Elizabeth. One doesn’t even need ... more information
Eastern Cape Beaches
The Eastern Cape in South Africa boasts some of the world’s best beaches and 800 km of unspoilt picturesque coastlines where blue oceans tumble onto quiet beaches. The Eastern Cape coastline is a mecca to all water sports enthusiasts and has a popular and thriving surfing culture ... more information
Fort Frederick
Like many national monuments, Fort Frederick first appears as little more than a few brick walls, albeit old walls that seem to hold little significance or attraction for visitors. It is only in learning the history behind a building that it takes on a meaning of its own, although in the case of Fort Frederick, it is worth ... more information
Humewood Golf Club
One of South Africa’s top-rated golf clubs, Humewood is a true Links course which has hosted numerous PGA events, including the South African Open. The course is surrounded by coastal bush and, although it is close to the centre of Port Elizabeth, one sees very little evidence of human encroachment ... more information
Maitland Nature Reserve
Port Elizabeth’s Maitland Nature Reserve is a rich source of natural beauty and variety. It boasts indigenous coastal forest, stunning views of the Indian Ocean and impressive giant sand dunes. The reserve occupies 250 hectares and is home to a number of wildlife species; including plenty of ... more information
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
Port Elizabeth has a brand new world-class stadium - the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. The five-tier Nelson Mandela Bay stadium has a seating capacity of 44,000 with an additional 4000 temporary seats available for the 2010 Football World Cup. The eye-catching roof ... more information
Port Elizabeth Golf Club
Port Elizabeth Golf Club, which is commonly known as "The Hill", was founded in 1890 and is one of South Africa's oldest golf clubs. Today the place is a hive of activity for its 1 600 members, and the emphasis is placed on good food and entertainment as well as golf. The most significant change in recent ... more information
Seaview Lion Park
The Seaview Lion Park in Port Elizabeth has made, playing with lion cubs of varying ages, an experience open to the public. Located just 25km’s from the city’s center, the Seaview Lion Park provides what is likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Depending on the age of the cubs when you visit, you’ll ... more information
Settlers Park Nature Reserve
The Baakens River Valley runs through the heart of Port Elizabeth, and is frequented by picnicking families, bridal couples having beautiful photographs taken and hikers taking in the beauty of the lush surrounds. The entire nature reserve of Settlers Park, situated within ... more information
St Croix Island Marine Reserve
The St Croix Island Marine Reserve lies in Algoa Bay, a series of three islands (the islands of the cross) just north-east of Port Elizabeth. St Croix and its two sister islets – Jahleel Island and Brenton Rock - are quartzitic outcrops of the Table Mountain Group, almost entirely devoid of soil. They ... more information
St Georges Park
The oldest park in Port Elizabeth and the site of the second oldest cricket club in the country, St George’s Park lies in the heart of Port Elizabeth, a tribute to the past and present day moments away from the noise of the city. Many a picnic party - umbrellas, baskets and chairs in tow - takes place here and the Mannville ... more information
Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve
This beautiful flower reserve lies just off the N2, roughly 35 kilometres west of Port Elizabeth. It might be smallish (600 hectares) but locals vote it one of the best spots to see flowering proteas in season, as well as other indigenous fynbos. You can snatch a great view of ... more information
Walmer Country Club
Walmer Country Club with its warm and friendly atmosphere, is 54 years old. It has grown from strength to strength and has over 550 members. Walmer Country Club Golf Course is a standard 18-hole configuration course with fairways running predominantly in Westerly or Easterly directions ... more information
Port Elizabeth
Featured Things To Do in Port Elizabeth
The Island Nature Reserve
Where: Seaview
How much (per person): On Request
Spend the day at The Island Nature Reserve. The reserve is located approximately 25 km from Port Elizabeth and accessed via the Seaview Road ... more information
The Port Elizabeth Apple Express
Where: Humewood
How much (per person): On Request
The Port Elizabeth Apple Express has since inception in 1903 contributed much to the national heritage, family memories and milestones of So ... more information
Baakens River Mountain Bike Trail
Where: Walmer
How much (per person): Free
Get some exercise on the Baakens River Mountain Bike Trail. The Baakens River has a total length of 23 km and is situated on approximately 5 ... more information
Port Elizabeth
Holiday Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
For accommodation in Port Elizabeth see:
• Beachview • Blue Horizon Bay • Bluewater Bay • Central Hill • Chelsea Conservancy
• Glendinningvale • Greenacres • Humerail • Humewood • Kini Bay • Lovemore Heights
• Maitlands • Mill Park • Richmond Hill • Sardinia Bay • Seaview • South End • St Georges Park
• Summerstrand • Walmer • Westlands • Woodlands
Or to see all accommodation visit Port Elizabeth Accommodation and Port Elizabeth Hotels.
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Whether you're in the mood for an informal seaside escape, an encounter with the "Big Five" on safari, or a choice of scintillating city diversions, you're sure to find what you're looking for in the Eastern Cape.
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