Summerstrand Port Elizabeth
Summerstrand, Gqeberha's vibrant coastal gem, offers stunning beaches, scenic drives, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Summerstrand Port Elizabeth
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Summerstrand, Gqeberha's vibrant coastal gem, offers stunning beaches, scenic drives, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for relaxation and adventure.
"Summerstrand offers beautiful beaches and scenic drives, a perfect blend of relaxation and coastal charm."
🚗 Scenic Coastal Drives
Explore Marine Drive for stunning ocean views. Perfect for a relaxed drive or a refreshing walk .
☀️ Beachfront Dining
Enjoy meals with a view at places like Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shark Rock Pier
Summerstrand beachfront
Stroll along this iconic pier for stunning ocean vistas and a refreshing sea breeze. Perfect for sunset views.
Summerstrand Marine Drive
Coastal road
Enjoy scenic drives with breathtaking coastline views. Ideal for a leisurely cruise or a refreshing morning walk.
Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar
Summerstrand beachfront
A popular spot for drinks and light lunches with a calming beach view. Great for a relaxed meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds in Summerstrand
Navigating Summerstrand's Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Coastal Drives
Explore Marine Drive for stunning ocean views. Perfect for a relaxed drive or a refreshing walk.
☀️ Beachfront Dining
Enjoy meals with a view at places like Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar.
🏠 Book Your Stay Early
Summerstrand has many Airbnb Summerstrand options; book ahead for best choices.
🏍️ Adventure on Wheels
Try quad biking on Summerstrand Marine Drive for an adrenaline rush.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Coastal Drives
Explore Marine Drive for stunning ocean views. Perfect for a relaxed drive or a refreshing walk.
☀️ Beachfront Dining
Enjoy meals with a view at places like Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar.
🏠 Book Your Stay Early
Summerstrand has many Airbnb Summerstrand options; book ahead for best choices.
🏍️ Adventure on Wheels
Try quad biking on Summerstrand Marine Drive for an adrenaline rush.
🌅 Sunrise Walks
Start your day with a beautiful sunrise walk along the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Summerstrand is praised for its beautiful beaches, scenic coastal drives along Marine Drive, and a good selection of accommodation, including many Airbnb Summerstrand options. Visitors enjoy the beachfront dining and the lively atmosphere, though some note it can get congested, especially during peak times, and it's becoming a student-centric area.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Summerstrand is easily accessible by car, with major roads leading directly to the area. If flying, Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ) is nearby, and taxis or ride-sharing services can take you to Summerstrand. Many visitors enjoy scenic drives along Marine Drive upon arrival.
While public transport options exist, they might not be as frequent or convenient as private transport. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is often recommended for exploring the wider Port Elizabeth area and its attractions.
Exploring Summerstrand is best done by car for flexibility, allowing you to easily visit beaches, restaurants, and nearby attractions. Walking along the beachfront is also a popular and enjoyable way to experience the area.
Yes, Marine Drive offers incredibly scenic coastal views as you approach or drive through Summerstrand. For a longer scenic drive, consider heading towards Maitlands Beach, about 40 minutes away.
Yes, Summerstrand is relatively close to Port Elizabeth International Airport. A taxi or ride-sharing service will typically take around 15-20 minutes to reach Summerstrand from the airport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to Summerstrand's public beaches is free. However, specific attractions or activities within the area, like quad biking, may have their own fees.
Public beaches are accessible at all times. Specific establishments like restaurants and activity providers (e.g., quad biking) will have their own operating hours, which are best checked directly with them.
For general beach access, no booking is required. However, if you plan on participating in activities like quad biking or dining at popular restaurants, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak times.
There are no general passes for Summerstrand itself. Discounts might be available for specific activities or accommodations, so it's worth checking individual providers.
Tickets for activities like quad biking can often be booked directly via phone or WhatsApp as advertised. For dining, reservations are recommended, especially for popular spots like Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar.
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
Summerstrand offers a range of hotels, including options like Radisson Blu, Garden Court, and City Lodge. Many are located conveniently near the beachfront, catering to various budgets.
Yes, Summerstrand has numerous B&Bs and guesthouses offering a more intimate stay. Options range from budget-friendly choices to more upscale establishments.
Absolutely! Airbnb Summerstrand is a popular choice, with many apartments and houses available right on or near the beach, offering great views and amenities.
For cheaper stays, look into options like Road Lodge or Town Lodge, which offer basic but comfortable accommodation. Some B&Bs also provide more affordable rates.
Yes, several hotels and apartments in Summerstrand boast prime beachfront locations, offering direct access to the sand and sea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Summerstrand offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual beachfront cafes like Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar to pubs like Beershack and bakeries offering custom cakes.
Many restaurants in Summerstrand are family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and varied menus. Beachfront establishments often provide a pleasant dining experience for all ages.
Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar is a favorite for its beach views, while Beershack is known for its pasta specials. Local bakeries also offer delicious treats.
While specific menus vary, most restaurants in Summerstrand are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check with the restaurant directly.
Dining prices in Summerstrand can range from affordable casual meals at cafes and pubs to mid-range and slightly higher prices at more established restaurants. Expect to pay more for beachfront locations.
📸 📸 Photography
The Summerstrand coastline itself is a photographer's dream, especially along Marine Drive. Shark Rock Pier offers iconic shots, and the beaches provide beautiful backdrops, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Evenings provide opportunities for capturing the illuminated coastline.
Shark Rock Pier is a prominent landmark. The general beachfront and the vibrant marine drive offer continuous picturesque scenes.
Landscape photography, beach scenes, and lifestyle shots are very popular due to the stunning natural beauty and coastal vibe.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Summerstrand or its surrounding areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
✈️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Summerstrand's Coastal Charm
Key attractions include the iconic Shark Rock Pier, a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the ocean and capture memorable photos. The beachfront is dotted with various eateries and cafes, such as Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar, which provides a relaxing ambiance for drinks and light meals with a view. For those seeking a bit more adventure, quad biking on Summerstrand Marine Drive offers an exhilarating way to experience the coastal landscape.
Accommodation in Summerstrand ranges from hotels like the Radisson Blu and Garden Court to numerous B&Bs in Summerstrand Port Elizabeth and Airbnb Summerstrand options, many of which are situated directly on or very close to the beach, ensuring guests can fully immerse themselves in the seaside experience. The area's popularity means booking accommodation in advance is often a good idea, especially during peak seasons.
Accommodation Options in Summerstrand
For those who prefer a more independent or homely feel, Airbnb Summerstrand is a very popular choice. Many listings are apartments or houses located right on the beachfront, providing stunning sea views and direct access to the sand. This makes it ideal for families or groups looking for a self-catering option. Travelers seeking more affordable stays might consider Road Lodge Summerstrand, known for its budget-friendly rates.
When searching for a B&B in Summerstrand Port Elizabeth, you'll find a variety of charming establishments. Some are specifically noted for being close to the university, catering to visiting families or academics. Whether you're looking for luxury, convenience, or affordability, Summerstrand offers a diverse range of accommodation to enhance your visit to Port Elizabeth.
Activities and Experiences in Summerstrand
For those seeking a bit more excitement, quad biking is a popular activity available on Summerstrand Marine Drive, providing an adrenaline-filled way to explore the area. Food enthusiasts will find a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront spots like Hello Beach Kitchen and Bar to pubs such as Beershack offering pasta specials. Local bakers also provide custom cakes for special occasions.
Summerstrand is also a hub for students from Nelson Mandela University, contributing to a lively atmosphere. The area is well-equipped with various services, including hair salons and other local businesses, making it a convenient and engaging place to stay and explore.




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