Noordhoek, 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, just past the ever-popular Pine Lodge, and en-route to Schoenmakerskop.
Noordhoek is well-known amongst fishermen, who can launch their boats directly from its shores. The warm Indian Ocean waters are teeming with marine life, including some very exciting fish species. Styles of fishing on the Noordhoek coast may vary from rock fishing to surf fishing and even deep-sea fishing. Commonly found fish include musselcracker, elf, hottentot, bronze bream, leervis, and kob. There are also mussels and crayfish here (licenses required).
The shipwrecks along the coast make for fascinating exploring. Snorkellers and SCUBA divers are able to spend hours examining these wrecks, which are now inhabited by fish and crustaceans.
This is a famous perlemoen spot. While the poaching of perlemoen is not legal in South Africa, it is important to recognise the little gems in which these endangered animals can be found so that they can be protected.
Dolphins frequently pass Noordhoek, delighting onlookers with their playful antics as they cut through the water, leaping out from time to time. Between July and December, visitors should also look out for whales, as they frequent this region as part of their annual migration. The most commonly seen species are the humpback and southern right whales. Naturally curious animals, the whales often breach (leap out from the water), spyhop (peek out of the water) and lobtail (splash their tails on the water’s surface).
The waters are a little rougher than those of Port Elizabeth’s popular swimming beaches, but are still very popular amongst water sports enthusiasts. These ones are frequently seen kayaking, surfing, wind surfing and paddle skiing in Noordhoek’s waters. SCUBA divers are invited to explore the magnificent Scotsman’s Reef, which is 21 metres deep and home to a huge variety of species, including gorgeous corals.
There are a number of great pubs and restaurants nearby. These include The Island, which continues to be a vibrant hotspot for those wanting tasty food, ice-cold beers and stunning views. Other local attractions include SAMREC (a penguin rehabilitation centre), Schoenmakerskop, and Cape Recife Nature Reserve.
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options
Hallack Manor Guest House
Hallack Manor Guest House profides fine accommodation on a spacious property in one of Port Elizabeth's most exclusive suburbs, offering you a se...
Hunter's Lodge
Situated in Greenacres, only 500m from Newton Park, Hunter's Lodge provides accommodation in a safe, secure environment. Warm hospitality, six la...
Amani Luxe Villa
Amani Luxe Villa is a guesthouse offering bed and breakfast accommodation in Port Elizabeth with panoramic sea views of Algoa bay, situated along...
The Hub Boutique Hotel
Experience a refreshing take on corporate and leisure accommodation with the ultra-modern, purpose-built Hub Boutique Hotel. The Hub successfully...
Taunton Studio
Taunton Studio is a secure self-catering holiday apartment in Port Elizabeth centrally located in the tree-lined upper avenues of fashionable Wal...
Moramba Cottage
Moramba Cottage offers modern and classy accommodation ideally situated in the lush green suburb of Walmer in Port Elizabeth. The cottage sleeps ...
Terracotta Lodge
Terracotta Lodge offers accommodation in stylishly decorated, self contained garden units, in the beautiful city of Port Elizabeth. Our hospitali...
Amani Guest Lodge
Amani Guest Lodge, tucked away within the tree-lined suburb of Walmer, Port Elizabeth, is a welcoming retreat for those seeking the best of city ...
Ebubeleni Guest House
Ebubeleni Guest House offers quiet, spacious and comfortable accommodation just 10 minutes from the centre of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape ...
Things to do in the area
Diving at Avalanche Reef
Just off the Wildside in Noordhoek, Port Elizabeth you will come across Avalanche, a popular dive site featuring overhangs and profound crevices....
Diving at Chelsea
Taking a trip out to the popular diving spot, Chelsea in Noordhoek, Port Elizabeth, is well worth it. Rays lie in the sand waiting for a tasty tr...
Crossroads Reef
For one of the most interesting deep dives (ranging from 16 to 28 meters), get to Crossroads, just out from Noordhoek in Port Elizabeth. Crossroa...
Diving At Gasmic Gorge
Gasmic Gorge is situated off of Noordhoek in Port Elizabeth and is well known for its 30 meter long gorge that is roughly 4 meters wide. The Gorg...
Explore Suicide Reef
Explore the caves, overhangs and numerous drop offs of Suicide Reef, Just off of Noordhoek in Port Elizabeth. On a calm day this is an ideal spo...
Noteworthy attractions
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 acquainte...
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 signi...
St Georges Park Cricket Ground
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 Eliza...
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 Ope...
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 aro...
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 o...
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 pl...
Walmer Country Club - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
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. Walm...
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, n...
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