|
|
Where is the “Friendliest City” on the Sunshine Coast?
The Bay of Port Elizabeth is located on the south-eastern coast of Africa along the shores of Algoa Bay. The city is fondly referred to as “The Friendly City” and tourists, who linger long enough to discover Port Elizabeth’s treasures, soon encounter the refreshing and sincere hospitality from which the city has earned its name.
WHAT MAKES IT SO SPECIAL?
A superb value-for-money and family fun holiday destination, the city offers a diverse selection of attractions, scenic nature trails, historic heritage, magnificent wildlife, cultural experiences, countless water sport activities and 40km of breathtaking coastline and beaches. The Bay is known as South Africa’s watersport capital and offers activity throughout the year, especially wind-surfing and fishing. In fact, Algoa Bay is regarded as one of the best sailing venues in the world, while scuba diving is of world class quality with beautiful reefs, ship-wrecks, fish and colourful coral species.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Port Elizabeth boasts a wonderful moderate climate all year round, and has been rated as having the fourth best weather in the world! Sea temperatures range from 16ÞC in winter to 23ÞC in summer. Summers are dry and warm with relatively low humidity, while winters are notably mild, with an all year round rainfall.
WHERE DOES THE CITY GET ITS NAME?
Port Elizabeth actually dates back to the arrival by sea of 4 000 British Settlers in 1820 to become the first permanent British residents in the country. On 6 June 1820, Sir Rufane Donkin, Acting Governor of the Cape Colony at the time, named the city after his late wife, Elizabeth.
WHAT DOES IT OFFER THE ECO OUTDOOR-ENTHUSIAST?
With the focus on eco-outdoor, Port Elizabeth offers the visitor an abundance of nature reserves ranging from a floral wonderland to unspoilt sanddunes to dramatic mountain ranges. Located in and around the city are: Settlers Park, Van Staden’s Wild Flower Reserve, Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Maitlands Reserve, The Island Nature Reserve, Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area and Groendal Wilderness Area.
There is an unbeatable variety of scenic walks within the city limits, including coastal and valley experiences. The well-marked trails can be self-guided or accompanied by expert trail guides. Hiking trails include: Sacramento Trail, Guinea Fowl Trail, Roseate Tern Trail, Van Der Kemps Trail, Aloe Trail, Bushbuck Trail, Van Staden’s Nature Reserve, Settler’s Park and Maitland Nature Reserve Trails, amongst others.
Exciting mountain bike trails will enthral cyclists to the Friendly City. Trails vary in difficulty and include the following: Baakens Valley Mountain Bike Trail, The Zwartkops Mountain Bike Trail, Van Staden’s Wild Flower Reserve Mountain Bike Trail, Longmore Forest Mountain Bike Trail as well as some amazingly beautiful beach rides. Mountain bikes can be hired from various outlets.
IS THE WILDLIFE PLENTIFUL & ARE THERE GAME VIEWING EXPERIENCES AVAILABLE?
A wonderful variety of game viewing experiences are available within less than an hour’s drive of Port Elizabeth. The Eastern Cape boasts the “Big Five”, in a malaria free environment. Closer to home, the Seaview Game and Lion Park, which is situated a mere 18km from the city centre, offers an interesting aspect of close-up game viewing in 31 hectares of pristine coastal bush.
MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS
Superb and enlightening orientation tours of the city are always available. These incorporate many of the historical attractions, as well as the modern developments in the city. Several exciting social, historical and traditional township tours are available. They incorporate some aspects of Settler History as well as the impact of the apartheid era on the city. As the landing place of the 1820 Settlers, it boasts some of the finest Victorian and Edwardian architectural attractions in South Africa. The 5km Donkin Heritage Trail links 47 places of historical interest in the old Hill area of central Port Elizabeth. Some of the attractions on the trail include the colonial City Hall, Main Public Library, King George VI Art Gallery, No. 7 Castle Hill Museum, Campanile, Donkin Reserve, Fort Frederick and the Horse Memorial.
Bayworld, which is one of Port Elizabeth’s “must see” tourist attractions, is situated on the beachfront and comprises the Museum, Oceanarium, Snake Park and Tropical House. In addition to the popular daily dolphin and seal presentations hosted at the Oceanarium, the Snake Park houses a wide variety of exotic and indigenous snakes as well as an impressive variety of Eastern Cape Reptiles.
The “Apple Express”, the city’s famous antique narrow-gauge steam train operates from Port Elizabeth to Thornhill Village on a regular basis.
ARE THE BEACHES REALLY THAT AWESOME?
Algoa Bay boasts 40km of magnificent coastline and protected beaches, complemented by a perfect combination of warm water, calm sea and fair breezes. These beaches include King’s Beach, Humewood Beach, Hobie Beach, Pollok Beach, Brighton Beach, Bluewater Bay, St George’s Strand and Wells Estate. The wide expanses of golden sands are ideal for safe and sheltered swimming, snorkelling, body surfing, sunbathing, yachting, windsurfing, surfing, jetskiing, fishing and beautiful beach walks. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season on all the main beaches.
WHAT MAKES THE SHOPPING SO SPECIAL?
From “market style” shopping, to craft shopping at our different fleamarkets, to upmarket boutique and mall shopping, Port Elizabeth has it all! Indulge your senses at our various spice, coffee and wine shops scattered conveniently around the city. Experience the hustle and bustle of Durban Road and Njoli Square for a jostling, ethnic shopping experience. Explore the classic collection of speciality stores and a variety of shopping malls for an upmarket shopping experience.
WHAT DOES THE CITY OFFER IN THE LINE OF ENTERTAINMENT?
After dark the city ignites and sparkles with an action-packed and varied nightlife! Enjoy the sounds of a local band at one of the many beachfront pubs or nightclubs. Revel in the African vibe at a local shebeen or dance the night away in a vibrant club. For theatre lovers, a variety of live performances and cabarets are featured regularly. An abundance of sport cafés with big screen TVs are to be found at various venues around town. Cinema complexes, offering the latest releases on the world-wide movie circuit, are situated at Kine Park, Walmer Park, The Bridge and Cleary Park. Night-time has never been this exciting and entertaining!
Culinary delights abound in the Friendly City! Indulge your tastebuds from Thai to Portuguese to Sushi gourmet dishes. Why not enjoy an African sunset while viewing the clear waters of Algoa Bay and savouring the tastes of a seafood platter for two? Treat yourself to flavoursome venison “potjie” or succulent, melt-in-your-mouth steak at any one of the city’s many restaurants. And remember no visit to the Friendly City is complete without savouring our exceptional “Sunstroke”, the official Port Elizabeth cocktail.
Port Elizabeth is notably a sporting enthusiast’s city and is often referred to as “Sport Elizabeth” because of its excellent and varied sporting facilities. Numerous exciting sporting events take place all year round in the city.
The city boasts an abundance of entertainment complexes with plenty of fun for the whole family, including activities for the enjoyment of kids of all ages.
WHERE WILL I STAY WHEN I GET THERE?
For the seasoned and discerning traveller, a wide range of excellent accommodation possibilities in Port Elizabeth, as well as in the outlying areas are offered. Accommodation options are plentiful and varied in Port Elizabeth. One- and two-star hotels abound, offering excellent value-for-money. For those wanting more upmarket hotel service, a range of quality three- and four-star hotels are available. Port Elizabeth has a thriving guest house industry, ranging from the basic bed & breakfast arrangement to the quiet intimacy of a cosy upmarket guesthouse or a luxurious manor house. A large selection of quality self-catering establishments and holiday apartments allow you the freedom to come and go as you please.
Public Transport
The city’s mainline railway station is situated in the centre of the city off Strand Street, alongside the Campanile and the harbour entrance. Shuttle buses offer a convenient mode of transport in the city and to surrounding areas. All buses depart from the Market Square Bus Station, located beneath the Norwich Union Centre Building, Strand Street. Show more
|
|
First Avenue Lodge is a well established 4 Star guest house situated in a quiet cul-de-sac opposite Hobie Beach in the popular beachfront suburb of Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth. The original character filled homestead dates back to the early 1900's...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Welcome to Shamwari Game Reserve, the ultimate luxury big five African safari adventure and conservation effort coupled with responsible tourism.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Welcome to the Farmhouse B&B. our guesthouse is tucked away in the lovely treed suburb of Walmer in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. We are only 2kms from the airport and 5kms from the beautiful beaches of Port Elizabeth and close to all amenities.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Manor 62 is a perfect option for guests who would like to stay for longer in self catering accommodation. The guest house is located in the leafy suburb of Sunridge Park, with easy access to the N2 freeway and on all the major urban trunk routes to...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Manor 38 is situated in the sea-side suburb of Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth and boasts exclusively designed executive and luxury guest suites for the discerning business traveller or tourist.
|
|
|
|
|
|
This award winning establishment is best described as a stylish boutique hotel with the personal touch of a guest house. Perfectly situated within walking distance from the beachfront & Boardwalk Casino & Entertainment Centre. This TGCSA 4...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lodge on Main Guest House is a TGCSA graded 4 Star Guest House, situated in the picturesque suburb of Walmer in Port Elizabeth and has successfully been trading since 1989. The guest house is centrally located on Main Road between 10th & 11th...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Upmarket, specious, private accommodation in garden setting with large pool only 400m from Pollock beach. Easy access to Boardwalk Entertainment complex and airport. Secure parking. All rooms with en-suite bathrooms, private entrances &...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beachfront: The best in the Bay! Success proven over 18 years of excellent friendly service and happy guests! Secure parking with cameras. Pool and pub. Each room offers: Privacy, en-suite, kitchenettes, bar fridges, telephones, Wi-fi, DSTV and...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Private settings, tranquil surroundings, superb hospitality, excellent breakfasts. En-suite rooms with private entrances, situated around pool. Secure parking, DSTV, Wi-Fi, Barfridge and Tea/Coffee facilities. 400 m From beach. Airport minutes away.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Everwood manor offers you tranquil luxury guesthouse accommodation, with secure off-road parking and is situated in the tree-lined suburb of Walmer. Everwood Manor is ideally situated for those doing business or on holiday.
|
|
|
|
|
|
80 on Brighton is a luxury bed and breakfast establishment in Summerstrand Port Elizabeth. We offer 5-star accommodation for the discerning businessman/woman, or leisure traveler, who appreciates privacy and elegant comfort - surrounded by a...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Set on 20 acres of indigenous bush.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Warm and welcoming, where modern mixes graciously with the charm of yesteryear. 7 elegantly appointed en suite rooms with tea tray, satellite TV, fridge, wireless internet. Well positioned close to P.E's main shopping centers, golf courses,...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Located only 200m from the beach in the beautiful upmarket seaside suburb of Summerstrand foreign tourists, travellers and business people alike will enjoy a relaxing stay at Algoa Guest House. This well-appointed guest house offers suites that are...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Africa Beach Bed and Breakfast offers superbly comfortable accommodation to business executives, tourists and holiday makers in the Summerstrand beachfront area, within easy walking distance from all major beachfront attractions. At Africa Beach Bed...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Summer House B&B is in the centre of the Summerstrand beachfront area. Walk to beach, shopping centre and entertainment complex.
|
|
|
|
|
|
@47 Guest House is situated in the quiet, upmarket beachfront suburb of Summerstrand. We offer spacious, private accommodation for tourists and corporate clients.
You will find yourself close to popular beaches, casino, university and golf club.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Bishops Inn Hotel is situated opposite Kings Beach and close to the city centre, restaurants, hospitals, airport and all of Port Elizabeth's world famous "must see" attractions.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Enjoy the tranquillity of this Mediterranean styled country estate, unique to Port Elizabeth and set within a nature conservancy. The peaceful setting offers stunning views of not only the surrounding countryside but the pristine coastal forest.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Homeleigh Halt Guest House offers you luxury accommodation in the beautiful garden suburb of Walmer, Port Elizabeth. We combine warm hospitality, excellent service and comfort for local leisure travelers, business executives and international...
|
|
|
|
|
|
4 star luxury yet affordable guest house with all modern conveniences ideal for business and tourist,close to all amenities in Port Elizabeth Come soak up the sun and enjoy some peace and tranquility in our 1'5 acre award winning garden Romanesque...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fabulous Guest House with spacious rooms in the quiet, upmarket beach front suburb of Summerstrand. Secure parking, separate entrances, all rooms with en-suite bathrooms with showers.Close to airport, beach, casino restaurants, university and golf...
|
|
|
|
|
PORT ELIZABETH QUICK LINKS
|
