Port Elizabeth

Eastern Cape Attractions

Port Elizabeth, often referred to as PE or the Friendly City, is the largest coastal city between Cape Town and Durban. This city is known for long hours of sunshine and lovely warm waters. The popular Algoa Bay which stretches along the coast attracts many visitors where they can enjoy the many water-sports on offer. Indeed there are over 40km of golden sandy beaches along what is known as Nelson Mandela Bay.

To the north you will find the New Brighton beach, which is ideal for swimming and fishing and the Bluewater Bay with its long stretch of white sand. In the evenings Hobie Beach is popular due to the proximity of the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment area with its lively bars, clubs and restaurants. Each year Hobie Beach is also the venue for the popular Splash Festival as well as beach volleyball and boardsailing championships. This is the beach that locals frequent to worship the sun and it even has it’s very own pier – Shark Rock Pier.

If you are interested in snorkelling or scuba diving then head to Sardinia Bay which is a marina reserve. Indeed PE offers ship wrecks, coral reefs and wonderfully coloured fish in warm waters for the scuba divers amongst you.

In the heart of the town, known as Central, you will find Market Square which is very attractive. PE has many historical attractions including the Donkin Heritage Trail where visitors can trace the footsteps of the 1820 Settlers. This is a 5km trail passing by some 47 historical sites in the Old Hill area of central PE.

Port Elizabeth is a perfect base to stay at as it is so close to other attractions such as Addo Elephant National Park, the Baviaanskloof, Port Alfred, Jeffreys Bay or Grahamstown. Within PE limits you can enjoy some lovely walks, great mountain bike trails, superb sailing, windsurfing and kite-surfing. If you are not shy then you could even dive in the predator tank at the Bayworld aquarium. In addition to all this there are also excellent golf course facilities including Humewood - the only true links course in South Africa.

If you are on holiday in Port Elizabeth for a few days and wanting to take part in various activities or to see a variety of attractions you might want to check out the Nelson Mandela Bay Pass which provides access to a variety of attractions at discounted rates.

Attractions close to Port Elizabeth

Addo National Elephant Park is 30 minutes away
Shamwari Private Game Reserve is 30 minutes away
Seaview Lion Park is 30 minutes away
St. Georges Park Cricket Ground is within easy reach

Places to stay in Eastern Cape | Itineraries in Eastern Cape