Alexandria Dune Field Colchester
Vast coastal desert with towering white dunes and crystal-clear waters, offering sandboarding and serene beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for sandboarding & views
Alexandria Dune Field Colchester
Best Time
Best for sandboarding & views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast coastal desert with towering white dunes and crystal-clear waters, offering sandboarding and serene beauty.
"Amazing place with white sand dunes and cristal water. Could have stayed there for hours!"
Board for Sandboarding
Bring a board for sandboarding down the dunes into the river! :athletic_shoe:
Family Fun Day
A lovely spot for a fun family day out with beautiful views. :familywomanwoman_boy:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Dune Landscape
Explore 50 km of impressive dunes reaching 140 meters high. A breathtaking coastal desert.
Sandboarding Thrills
Experience the exhilaration of sandboarding down the pristine white dunes into the crystal-clear river.
River Boat Access
Take a scenic river boat trip to reach the heart of the dunes and enjoy unique perspectives.
Peaceful Contemplation
Find tranquility amidst the dunes, enjoying the peace and natural beauty of this coastal gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dunes
Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Board for Sandboarding
Bring a board for sandboarding down the dunes into the river! :athletic_shoe:
Family Fun Day
A lovely spot for a fun family day out with beautiful views. :familywomanwoman_boy:
Peaceful Escape
Incredibly relaxing and peaceful, a true gem close to PE. :relaxed:
Orca Sighting Potential
You might even spot an orca from the beach! :whale:
Tips
from all over the internet
Board for Sandboarding
Bring a board for sandboarding down the dunes into the river! :athletic_shoe:
Family Fun Day
A lovely spot for a fun family day out with beautiful views. :familywomanwoman_boy:
Peaceful Escape
Incredibly relaxing and peaceful, a true gem close to PE. :relaxed:
Orca Sighting Potential
You might even spot an orca from the beach! :whale:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the impressive scale and beauty of the Alexandria Dune Field, highlighting its vast white sand dunes and crystal-clear river. The opportunity for sandboarding and the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere are major draws, making it a beloved local gem. While generally positive, some may find amenities limited.
"The vast of this dune is impressive; around 50 Kms along the coast, reaching altitudes of up to 140 meters. We took a river boat that brought us to these dunes. Dry and wet sliding were available but my favorite was just to contemplate the peace of this place."
Jorge J. Garcia
"Beautiful sand dunes. Lovely to take the family for a fun day out! Make sure you take some board to sand board down into the river !!
Beautiful views from above the dunes too with lots of bird life being a plus !
Just very relaxing and so close to PE a little gem on our corner."
Hey Demi Ann (Demi Ann)
"Amazing place with white sand dunes and cristal water. Could have stayed there for hours or even a couple of days. A must to do if you are in the area"
Anaïs Begat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alexandria Dune Field is a short drive from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Many visitors opt for a river boat tour which provides access to the dunes and often includes sandboarding activities. Check local tour operators for departure points and schedules.
Access is often facilitated by river boat tours, which are recommended for reaching the main dune areas and enjoying activities. Independent access might be more challenging.
Roads leading to Colchester are generally well-maintained, but it's always wise to check local road conditions before your trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the dune field itself might not require a specific ticket, but access is often via paid river boat tours or organized activities. It's best to book these in advance.
As a natural attraction, the dune field is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, tour operators will have their own schedules.
Sandboarding is often an included activity with river boat tours. If you plan to do it independently, you might need to rent equipment or pay a separate fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include sandboarding down the dunes, enjoying the stunning views from the top, and taking a relaxing river boat trip. Some visitors have even reported orca sightings from the beach. +1
Yes, it's a great place for a fun family day out! Kids will enjoy the sandboarding and the unique landscape.
Many visitors recommend taking a river boat to access the dunes and then enjoying activities like sandboarding. Contemplating the peace of the place is also a highlight. +1
The river water is described as crystal clear, suggesting it's suitable for swimming, especially after sandboarding.
Besides the potential for orca sightings from the beach, there's also mention of abundant bird life. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Amenities are limited within the dune field itself. It's advisable to pack your own snacks and drinks, or dine in Colchester or Gqeberha before or after your visit.
A picnic is a great idea to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Just be sure to take all your rubbish with you to preserve the natural beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture panoramic views from the top of the dunes, the unique contrast of white sand against the blue river and sea, and action shots of sandboarding. The vastness of the landscape offers endless photographic potential.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, will offer the most dramatic lighting for your photos, highlighting the textures of the sand dunes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It’s a great opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The peaceful atmosphere also allows for moments of quiet appreciation of the stunning natural beauty, making it a well-rounded family experience.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts
The tranquility of the area is a significant draw, providing a peaceful escape. The combination of diverse ecosystems – desert dunes meeting the ocean – makes it a fascinating place for observation and photography. Consider a boat tour to fully appreciate the extent of this natural wonder.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Alexandria Dune Field
Access to the core of the dune field is often best achieved via a river boat tour. These tours not only provide a scenic journey but also serve as a gateway to the primary attractions, including the popular activity of sandboarding. Visitors often describe the experience as both adventurous and incredibly peaceful, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Beyond the dunes themselves, the area is noted for its rich biodiversity. Bird life is abundant, and there have even been rare sightings of orcas from the nearby beaches, adding another layer of wonder to this coastal gem. The combination of dramatic landscapes, exciting activities, and potential wildlife encounters makes the Alexandria Dune Field a memorable stop.
Sandboarding Adventures
It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear, like sneakers, for navigating the sand and for the sandboarding itself. The experience is often described as a fun and energetic way to engage with the unique environment. Families, in particular, find sandboarding to be a fantastic activity that creates lasting memories.
While the primary access for sandboarding is often through organized tours, the sheer scale of the dunes means there are plenty of opportunities for riders of all skill levels. The feeling of freedom and the stunning backdrop make sandboarding here an unforgettable adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit