Port Elizabeth Port
Gqeberha, the 'Friendly City,' offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique experiences in South Africa's Eastern Cape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect beach weather
Port Elizabeth Port
Best Time
Perfect beach weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gqeberha, the 'Friendly City,' offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique experiences in South Africa's Eastern Cape.
"Port Elizabeth offers a coastal escape with beautiful beaches and a relaxed vibe, perfect for a getaway."
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
For exploring beyond the city, renting a car is highly advised.
☀️ Beach Essentials
Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and swimwear for the beautiful beaches!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hobie Beach & Kings Beach
Nelson Mandela Bay
Golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant beach life. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Boardwalk Casino & Entertainment World
Summerstrand
A hub for entertainment, dining, and shopping with a lively atmosphere.
Bayworld
Port Elizabeth
Discover marine life, reptiles, and fascinating history at this popular attraction.
First Thursdays in Donkin Village
Donkin Village
Experience a monthly gathering with food trucks, thrift stalls, and live music.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Getting Around Gqeberha
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
For exploring beyond the city, renting a car is highly advised.
☀️ Beach Essentials
Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and swimwear for the beautiful beaches!
🛍️ Thrift Store Finds
Discover unique treasures at local thrift stores for sustainable shopping.
🐎 Horseback Riding
Enjoy a peaceful ride at Heavenly Stables for a unique nature experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
For exploring beyond the city, renting a car is highly advised.
☀️ Beach Essentials
Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and swimwear for the beautiful beaches!
🛍️ Thrift Store Finds
Discover unique treasures at local thrift stores for sustainable shopping.
🐎 Horseback Riding
Enjoy a peaceful ride at Heavenly Stables for a unique nature experience.
🏨 Book Accommodation Early
Popular Airbnbs like Bellamare get booked quickly, especially in peak season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) for its beautiful beaches, friendly atmosphere, and diverse activities, from marine life at Bayworld to unique local events like First Thursdays. While some find the city's infrastructure could be improved, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting good value for money and a relaxed coastal vibe.
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Barbara Chitenje
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Grant Potgieter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) has its own airport (PLZ) with regular flights from major South African cities. If driving from other provinces, major highways connect to the Eastern Cape. The drive from Addo Elephant National Park is also feasible for a day trip.
Getting around Port Elizabeth can be done via taxis or ride-sharing services. For exploring the wider Nelson Mandela Bay area and attractions like Addo, renting a car is recommended.
The drive from Addo Elephant National Park to Port Elizabeth is approximately 1.5 hours. Many visitors opt for a day trip, combining a safari experience with exploring the coastal city.
Yes, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) has an airport (PLZ) that receives direct flights from major South African hubs like Johannesburg and Cape Town.
The driving distance between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth is roughly 750 km, taking about 8-9 hours. Flying is a much quicker option, with flights around 1.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most public beaches like Hobie Beach and Kings Beach are free to access. Some attractions like Bayworld may have admission fees.
Boardwalk Mall typically opens around 9 AM and closes at 7 PM, with extended hours on weekends. Individual store hours may vary.
First Thursdays in Donkin Village is generally a free event to attend, with costs associated with food, drinks, and purchases from stalls.
It's advisable to book your horseback riding session at Heavenly Stables in advance, especially during peak times, to secure your preferred slot.
Ticket prices for Bayworld can vary, but it's recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on admission fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Hobie Beach and Kings Beach are popular choices for swimming and sunbathing. Maitland Beach also offers beautiful coastal views.
Enjoy water sports, explore marine life at Bayworld, go horseback riding at Heavenly Stables, or experience the local vibe at First Thursdays.
Yes, Boardwalk Mall offers a variety of shops. You can also find unique items at local thrift stores.
Port Elizabeth has a temperate climate. Summers are warm and pleasant, while winters are mild. Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sunshine and potential rain.
Like any city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions. Stick to well-lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific recommendations vary, many visitors enjoy casual dining spots and restaurants around the Boardwalk area for diverse options.
Rocomamas and Cubana are mentioned for dining experiences. For a more local feel, explore eateries near the Donkin Village during First Thursdays.
Heritage Cafe is mentioned as a place to order from during First Thursdays, suggesting a good local coffee spot.
You'll find a mix of South African cuisine, seafood, and international options. Casual dining and fast-food chains are also prevalent.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and with the growing popularity of plant-based diets, you can often find vegan choices, especially in more modern eateries. It's always best to ask.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer stunning coastal shots. The Donkin Village with its historic architecture and vibrant street art is also a great subject. Don't miss the chance to spot unique cars like the McLaren 720S.
While Port Elizabeth itself is a coastal city, nearby attractions like Addo Elephant National Park offer incredible wildlife photography opportunities.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most beautiful light for landscape and cityscape photography.
Look out for vibrant street art, classic cars like the McLaren 720S, and the bustling atmosphere of events like First Thursdays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly accommodation options, many of which are available on platforms like Airbnb. The relaxed atmosphere of the 'Friendly City' makes it easy to enjoy a stress-free family vacation.
💰 Budget Travelers
Don't miss the opportunity to discover hidden gems at thrift stores, where you can find unique items at unbeatable prices. Attending events like First Thursdays in Donkin Village can also be a budget-friendly way to experience local culture, food, and music.
couples
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of First Thursdays for a fun evening with food, drinks, and live music. For a more upscale experience, consider staying at a boutique hotel or a well-appointed Airbnb with ocean views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Port Elizabeth's Beaches
Many visitors enjoy the simple pleasure of a beach day, soaking up the South African sun. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and swimwear to make the most of your time by the sea. The coastal weather can be dynamic, so being prepared for both sunshine and cooler breezes is key.
Unique Experiences in Gqeberha
A highlight for many is the monthly First Thursdays event in Donkin Village. This vibrant gathering features food trucks, artisan stalls, live music, and a great atmosphere, particularly popular with a younger crowd. It's a fantastic way to experience the local culture and community spirit.
Accommodation Options
Airbnb is a popular choice, with listings like those in Bellamare offering comfortable stays in desirable locations like Summerstrand. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for sought-after properties during peak travel seasons. The city caters to various needs, whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly getaway.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit