McArthur Pools - Image 1
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McArthur Pools

4.1
·381 reviews·Gqeberha, South Africa

A vibrant coastal oasis with natural sea water baths, thrilling slides, and lush gardens, perfect for family fun and relaxation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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McArthur Pools - Image 1

McArthur Pools

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant coastal oasis with natural sea water baths, thrilling slides, and lush gardens, perfect for family fun and relaxation.

4.1
(381 reviews)

"A fantastic recreational facility with a great vibe, especially when not too busy!"

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Perfect for Hot Days

Ideal spot to cool off on a hot day in Madiba Bay. Spectacular bay views!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Kids love the slides! Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Natural Sea Water Bath

Natural Sea Water Bath

King's Beach Promenade

Experience the ocean's power as waves fill this unique, natural pool. Refreshing and invigorating!

Super Tube Slides

Super Tube Slides

Swimming Pool Complex

Thrilling water slides for all ages! Guaranteed fun and laughter for the whole family.

Tropical Garden Setting

Tropical Garden Setting

Surrounding the Pools

Relax amidst lush greenery. A beautiful, serene atmosphere perfect for a family picnic.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays or during school holidays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends and peak summer days can get busy, so arriving early is key to securing a good spot and enjoying the slides without long queues.

Pack for a Full Day

McArthur Pools offers a fantastic day out with picnic areas, a kiosk, and nearby restaurants. Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and snacks to make the most of the facilities and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
School Holidays
Why
Less busy than peak summer
Crowd
Medium
When
After Rain
Why
Perfect temperature, refreshing air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We took our kids to McArthur pools this morning. It's on the beachfront, in Humewood, Gqeberha. 🌊 They have 4 pools (2 of which are kids/shallow pools). They're open everyday 9am-5pm, Saturdays they open at 7am. We paid R360 for the 4 of us: 2 adults @ R140, R80 for Grayson (under 12) and Hazel was free. So let me give my honest review as a first timer. ✅ Wasn't busy- we got there at 9am and staye...
@secondtimemamma
2.2K likes • 48.7K views

☀️ Perfect for Hot Days

Ideal spot to cool off on a hot day in Madiba Bay. Spectacular bay views! Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Kids love the slides! Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Reddit

🌊 Natural Sea Water

Unique experience with ocean water filling the main pool. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Lovely picnic area with tables and chairs. Bring your own food or use the kiosk. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Perfect for Hot Days

Ideal spot to cool off on a hot day in Madiba Bay. Spectacular bay views! Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Kids love the slides! Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Reddit

🌊 Natural Sea Water

Unique experience with ocean water filling the main pool. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Lovely picnic area with tables and chairs. Bring your own food or use the kiosk. Reddit

👍 Safe & Clean

Lifeguards on duty, clean facilities, and a safe environment. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(381 reviews)

Reviews Summary

McArthur Pools is a highly recommended recreational facility, praised for its clean water, vibrant atmosphere, and family-friendly amenities like super tube slides and a natural sea water bath. Visitors appreciate the lifeguards, picnic areas, and beautiful bay views, making it a great spot for a fun-filled day out, especially when less crowded.

"Really great taking the kids there during the school holidays. It wasn't as busy. Reall
Good vibe when there isn't as much people around.Weather was also perfect. Not to hot after some much needed rain."

Shandee Hermaans

"The McArthur Baths Swimming Pool Complex is a fantastic recreational facility found along the popular King's Beach Promenade in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. At McArthur’s pool centre you will find lifeguards on duty watching over 3 large swimming pools, a natural sea water bath which gets water from the ocean as the waves crash in over the boundary, a few super tube slides, surrounded by the most beautiful tropical garden, a splash pool, a lovely picnic area with tables, chairs, loafers and umbrellas. A mini kiosk for ice creams and sweets, a small sandpit and jungle gym for the kiddies to enjoy.
There are several restaurants to order a take away or a cocktail and a even a surf shop nearby with swimming costumes, sunglasses, and suncream.l and all your water sport gear you may need.
It is a lovely day out in the sun and water with the family and friends to make lovely summer holiday memories. I would highly recommend this place be considered if you have a hot day in Madiba Bay. It has spectacular views over the bay in both directions.

#McArthursPool #McArthursbath #kingsbeach #adventure #familyfun #easterncape #madibabay #portelizabeth #memories #swimming #supertubes #playabdlearn"

Jessie Watson

"Definitely worth the price! Great facility for the whole family with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rental. The kids will love the water slides."

Melvin Challens

What People Like

Natural sea water bath
Super tube slides
Clean and vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McArthur Pools is located on the popular King's Beach Promenade in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might also be available, so check local schedules.

Yes, there is typically parking available near the King's Beach Promenade, making it convenient to access McArthur Pools.

Given its location on the King's Beach Promenade, it's likely walkable from other beachside attractions or accommodations in the area.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific prices for 2021 and 2022 aren't readily available, reviews suggest it's 'definitely worth the price'.Reddit It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current admission fees.

Booking in advance is generally not required for casual visits, but it's always a good idea to check their official channels, especially during peak season or for group bookings.

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official McArthur Pools website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information on operating times.

Information on discounts is not widely published. It's advisable to inquire directly with McArthur Pools about potential family packages, group rates, or off-peak discounts.

Yes, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rental, which is a great perk for a comfortable day out.Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

McArthur Pools boasts 3 large swimming pools, a natural sea water bath, super tube slides, a splash pool, picnic areas with tables and chairs, a mini kiosk, a sandpit, and a jungle gym for kids.Reddit

Yes, lifeguards are on duty to ensure the safety of swimmers in all the pools.Reddit

Absolutely! With a splash pool, sandpit, and jungle gym, it's a fantastic place for young children to enjoy themselves.Reddit

McArthur Pools features a natural sea water bath that is filled by ocean waves, offering a unique swimming experience connected to the sea.

The facility offers both fresh water pools and a natural sea water bath, all described as clean with a lovely ambiance.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a mini kiosk for ice creams and sweets. Additionally, there are nearby restaurants where you can order takeaways or enjoy a cocktail.Reddit

The presence of a lovely picnic area with tables, chairs, and umbrellas suggests that bringing your own food is welcome and encouraged.Reddit

While specific menus aren't detailed, the proximity to restaurants on King's Beach Promenade likely offers a variety of dining choices, potentially including vegetarian and vegan options.

📸 📸 Photography

The natural sea water bath with crashing waves, the vibrant tropical gardens, and the panoramic views over the bay offer excellent photo opportunities.Reddit

With its colorful surroundings, fun slides, and beautiful coastal backdrop, McArthur Pools is a great location for capturing memorable family photos.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the facility management regarding any restrictions on drone photography.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McArthur Pools is a dream destination for families! The super tube slides are a guaranteed hit, and the dedicated splash pool, sandpit, and jungle gym ensure endless fun for younger children.Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated area with tables and chairs, or grab a treat from the kiosk. Renting sunbeds and umbrellas makes for a comfortable day, and the lifeguards provide peace of mind.Reddit It's a vibrant, clean, and safe environment perfect for creating lasting summer memories.

☀️ Budget Travelers

While admission prices are reasonable, McArthur Pools offers excellent value. Bringing your own picnic is a great way to save money on food, and the picnic area is well-equipped.Reddit The natural sea water bath offers a unique experience without the cost of a boat trip. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, making your budget stretch further for a full day of enjoyment.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Capture stunning shots at McArthur Pools! The natural sea water bath with its dynamic waves provides dramatic photo opportunities. The tropical gardens offer a lush backdrop, and the panoramic views over the bay are spectacular.Reddit The colorful slides and vibrant atmosphere also make for fun, candid family shots. Aim for golden hour for the best light.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Sea Water Bath

One of the most distinctive features of McArthur Pools is its natural sea water bath. Unlike typical chlorinated pools, this section is designed to be filled by the ocean itself. As waves crash over the boundary, the pool is replenished with fresh sea water, offering a truly invigorating and natural swimming experience. This unique design provides a taste of the ocean's power while maintaining a safe and controlled environment for swimmers. It's a highlight that sets McArthur Pools apart from standard recreational facilities.Reddit

The surrounding tropical garden adds to the serene ambiance, making it a pleasant place to relax even when you're not in the water. The combination of the natural sea water pool and the lush greenery creates a picturesque setting for a day out. Visitors often praise the beautiful views over the bay, enhancing the overall experience.Reddit

Family Fun and Facilities

McArthur Pools is clearly designed with families in mind. The super tube slides are a major draw for children and adults alike, promising hours of entertainment and laughter. Beyond the slides, there's a dedicated splash pool, a sandpit, and a jungle gym, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have plenty to keep them occupied.Reddit

To enhance comfort, the facility offers a lovely picnic area complete with tables, chairs, loungers, and umbrellas, making it easy to spend a full day here. For convenience, a mini kiosk provides quick access to ice creams and sweets. Reviews highlight that sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rental, adding to the ease of a family outing.Reddit The presence of lifeguards also contributes to a feeling of safety and security for parents.

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