Attractions Nearby Port Elizabeth, Day Trips and Excursions

(Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, ZA

Whilst Port Elizabeth is a great place to stay, boasting a large number of things to do and see, it's always worth checking out the many nearby attractions. Get out and about and you will be rewarded with visits to some great beaches, wildlife reserves and natural habitats, as well as lively towns and seaside resorts, all of which are just a short excursion away.

Close to Port Elizabeth are the attractions of Alexandria, the beaches of both Cape Recife and Port Alfred, and the renowned surfing conditions of Jeffrey's Bay. Those with an interest in history will likely enjoy a day trip to Grahamstown.

Jeffrey's Bay

Jeffrey's Bay is a simply a 'must' for surfers in search of the perfect wave. The town itself is a lively place to visit, with plenty of cafes and restaurants, and shops. If you don't fancy surfing, there are long stretches of golden sand to enjoy. The town is busier than usual during its annual surfing contest, held in July.

Cape Recife

Nearby Cape Recife is notable as one of the best places to observe birds in their natural habitat. It also boasts a beautiful beach, an historic lighthouse and even a military lookout that dates back to the Second World War. If you feel the need to stretch your legs outside of Port Elizabeth, without having to travel far, then this is a quiet place to while away a few hours.

Alexandria

Some 100 km / 60 miles from Port Elizabeth is the lively town of Alexandria. As the gateway to the Greater Addo National Park, it is a useful base for exploring the area. It's also just a 10-minute drive from nearby beaches. Worth seeing are the Karel Landman Monument and Old Jail, both named as heritage sites, and the Alexandria Dunefield, said to be the biggest of its kind in the area. Visitors can also enjoy a quiet stroll around the Quinn Sculpture Garden and Art Centre.

Port Alfred

This lively seaside town is situated between Port Elizabeth and East London. There's plenty to keep visitors entertained, from a stroll around the town to a swim in the sea. There are also a host of sporting activities available for the more adventurous, including horse riding, surfing and sailing. Port Alfred's biggest attractions have to be its beautiful marina and award-winning beaches. Of particular interest, Port Alfred boasts a number of historic landmarks, which date back to its settler origins.

Grahamstown

Some 125 km / 78 miles from Port Elizabeth is the historic former garrison town of Grahamstown. The town's major landmark is the 1820 Settler's National Monument, a memorial that was actually built in 1974, on top of Gunfire Hill. Opposite the monument is Fort Selwyn, which now houses a military museum. Grahamstown offers visitors a taste of colonial life. The town is also home to Rhodes University. The University grounds and Cathedral of St. George and St. Michael are especially noteworthy.