Port Elizabeth (PE), also known as Nelson Mandela Bay, is a vibrant coastal city along South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Often overshadowed by Cape Town and Johannesburg, this hidden gem offers stunning beaches, rich wildlife experiences, and fascinating history without the crowds. As one of South Africa’s largest seaports, the city blends urban comforts with natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking authentic South African experiences.

Known for its friendly locals (earning it the nickname “The Friendly City“), mild climate, and diverse attractions, Port Elizabeth serves as the perfect gateway to the malaria-free Eastern Cape safari region while offering its own unique coastal charm and cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth enjoys a moderate climate year-round, but the best times to visit depend on your preferred activities:

• October to March (Summer): Warm beach weather with temperatures between 18-26°C (64-79°F). Perfect for beach activities and water sports, though December and January are peak holiday periods with more crowds.
• April to May (Autumn): Mild temperatures (15-23°C/59-73°F) with less rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing with fewer tourists.
• June to August (Winter): Cooler temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F), occasional rainfall, but still plenty of sunny days. Excellent for whale watching (June-September) and budget-friendly accommodations.
• September (Spring): Weather begins warming up with temperatures between 14-22°C (57-72°F). A great time to witness wildflowers blooming in nearby reserves.

How to Get to Port Elizabeth

By Air

Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ) offers regular domestic flights from major South African cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Airlines serving the airport include:

• South African Airways
• FlySafair
• Airlink
• CemAir

By Road

Port Elizabeth is accessible via well-maintained highways:

• From Cape Town: ±800 km (8-9 hours) via N2
• From Johannesburg: ±1,000 km (11-12 hours) via N1 and N9
• From Durban: ±670 km (7-8 hours) via N2

By Bus

Several bus companies offer comfortable long-distance services to Port Elizabeth:

• Greyhound
• Intercape
• Translux
• Citiliner

Getting Around Port Elizabeth

Public Transportation

• Algoa Bus Service: Operates throughout the city and suburbs
• Minibus taxis: Affordable but can be crowded; best for short distances
• Uber and Bolt: Widely available throughout the city

Car Rental

Car rental agencies are available at the airport and throughout the city:

• Avis
• Budget
• Europcar
• Hertz
• Tempest

Guided Tours

Several local operators offer day tours around the city and to nearby attractions:

• Calabash Tours
• Alan Tours
• Ukubona Africa Tours

Where to Stay in Port Elizabeth

Luxury Accommodations

• The Boardwalk Hotel: Beachfront five-star hotel with casino, entertainment, and direct beach access
• No5 Boutique Art Hotel: Luxury boutique hotel featuring fine dining and an impressive art collection
• Singa Lodge: Upscale African-inspired lodging with private pools and lush gardens

Mid-Range Options

• Radisson Blu Hotel: Modern hotel with ocean views and convenient access to beaches
• Beach Hotel: Classic beachfront accommodation with multiple dining options
• Isango Gate Boutique Hotel: Elegant converted mansion with spa facilities

Budget-Friendly Stays

• Algoa Bay Bed & Breakfast: Comfortable accommodation with garden views
• Forest Hall Guest House: Charming guesthouse in a quiet suburb
• Island Vibe Backpackers: Social backpacker hostel with both dorms and private rooms

Self-Catering Options

• Summerstrand Beach Lodge: Self-catering apartments near popular beaches
• Admiralty Beach House: Family-friendly accommodation with full kitchen facilities
• Dempsey’s Guest House: Self-catering cottages in a tranquil garden setting

Top Attractions in Port Elizabeth

Wildlife and Nature

• Addo Elephant National Park: Home to over 600 elephants and the “Big Five,” located just 72 km from PE
• Kragga Kamma Game Park: Malaria-free wildlife reserve with rhinos, giraffes, and zebras
• Cape Recife Nature Reserve: Coastal reserve with a historic lighthouse and excellent birdwatching

Beaches and Coastal Attractions

• Kings Beach: Blue Flag beach with protected swimming areas and water slides
• Hobie Beach: Popular for swimming and watersports, home to the famous Shark Rock Pier
• Sardinia Bay: Pristine beach known for its rolling dunes and snorkeling opportunities
• Bayworld: Combined museum, snake park, and oceanarium showcasing local marine life

Historical and Cultural Sites

• Donkin Reserve: Historical park with a lighthouse and large pyramid monument
• South End Museum: Chronicles the history of forced removals during apartheid
• Route 67: Art route with 67 public artworks commemorating Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of political life
• Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum: Showcasing South African art from historical to contemporary

Family-Friendly Activities

• Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World: Family entertainment complex with restaurants, shops, and a lake
• Holmeleigh Farmyard: Petting zoo and play area popular with young children
• Valley Crag Indoor Climbing Centre: Indoor climbing facility for all ages and skill levels

Day Trips from Port Elizabeth

• Jeffreys Bay (75 km): World-famous surfing destination with excellent beaches and factory outlets
• Addo Elephant National Park (72 km): South Africa’s third-largest national park, home to the “Big Five”
• Shamwari Game Reserve (75 km): Luxury private game reserve offering the “Big Five” safari experience
• Storms River Mouth (170 km): Spectacular gorge in Tsitsikamma National Park with suspension bridges
• Sunday’s River Valley (40 km): Sand boarding on the massive dunes along the Sundays River

Outdoor Activities and Adventures

Water Sports

• Surfing at Pollock Beach
• Scuba diving at Bell Buoy and Evan’s Peak
• Boat-based whale and dolphin watching
• Kiteboarding and windsurfing at Sardinia Bay
• Stand-up paddleboarding on the Swartkops River

Land-Based Activities

• Hiking the Sacramento Trail along the coastline
• Mountain biking in the Baakens Valley
• 4×4 trails in nearby nature reserves
• Sandboarding at the Sundays River dunes
• Golfing at Humewood Golf Club (one of South Africa’s top links courses)

Shopping in Port Elizabeth

Malls and Shopping Centers

• Baywest Mall: The largest shopping center in the Eastern Cape
• Walmer Park Shopping Centre: Upscale shopping with international brands
• Greenacres Shopping Centre: Central mall with a wide variety of stores

Markets and Specialty Stores

• The Valley Market: Monthly indoor artisanal food and craft market
• Werk Workshop: Boutique featuring local designer clothing and crafts
• Richmond Hill Brewing Company: Craft brewery with merchandise and tastings

Where to Eat in Port Elizabeth

Fine Dining

• De Kelder: Upscale restaurant specializing in seafood and game meats
• Ginger Restaurant: Contemporary South African cuisine with Asian influences
• Fushin Sushi & Eastern Cuisine: High-end sushi and Asian fusion

Casual Dining

• Barneys Tavern: Historic pub with relaxed atmosphere and comfort food
• Blue Waters Café: Oceanfront dining with seafood specialties
• Coachman on the Bay: Family restaurant serving steaks and seafood

Cafés and Breakfast Spots

• Savages Fine Food: Garden café serving artisanal breakfast and lunch
• Rhubarb & Lime: Popular breakfast spot with homemade pastries
• Sacramento Restaurant: Casual eatery with ocean views

Local Street Food and Quick Bites

• Something Good Roadhouse: Classic roadside diner near the beach
• Two Olives: Mediterranean-inspired tapas and light meals
• The Boardwalk Craft Brewery: Craft beers and pub fare

Nightlife in Port Elizabeth

Bars and Pubs

• Beer Shack: Craft beer destination with live music
• Bridge Street Brewery: Riverside brewpub with outdoor seating
• Barney’s Tavern: Historic pub with live entertainment

Clubs and Entertainment

• Balizza: Nightclub with various themed nights
• News Café: Trendy bar and lounge with DJs on weekends
• The Boardwalk Casino: Gaming and entertainment complex

Practical Information for first time visitors in Port Elizabeth

Safety Tips

• Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night
• Use registered transportation services
• Don’t display valuable items openly
• Ask locals or hotel staff about areas to avoid

Local Customs and Etiquette

• South Africans are generally friendly and approachable
• Tipping (10-15%) is customary for restaurants and services
• Greetings are important; a simple “hello” goes a long way

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 10111
• Ambulance: 10177
• Tourism Police: 071 486 3014
• Netcare 911 (Private Ambulance): 082 911

Healthcare

• Netcare Greenacres Hospital: Private hospital with emergency services
• Life St George’s Hospital: Full-service private hospital
• Livingstone Hospital: Public hospital with emergency department

Money and Banking

• Major banks include Standard Bank, ABSA, Nedbank, and First National Bank
• ATMs are widely available in shopping centers and petrol stations
• Major credit cards are accepted at most establishments
• Tipping (10-15%) is customary at restaurants and for services

Best Photography Spots

• Shark Rock Pier during sunrise or sunset
• Cape Recife Lighthouse
• The colorful Donkin Reserve art installations
• Sacramento hiking trail’s shipwreck views
• Sardinia Bay’s pristine dunes
• Van Stadens Bridge viewpoint

Seasonal Events and Festivals

• The Herald Cycle Tour (February): Major cycling event
• Ironman African Championship (March/April): International triathlon
• Splash Festival (Easter weekend): Beach sports and entertainment
• National Arts Festival (June/July): While centered in Grahamstown/Makhanda, many artists perform in PE before or after
• Nelson Mandela Bay Wine Festival (August): Wine tasting event
• Summer Season (December-January): Various beach events and concerts

Suggested Itineraries in Port Elizabeth

3-Day Visit

Day 1: City orientation, Donkin Reserve, and Route 67 exploration. Afternoon at Kings Beach, followed by dinner at Blue Waters Café. Day 2: Day trip to Addo Elephant National Park with a picnic lunch. Evening at the Boardwalk complex. Day 3: Morning at Sardinia Bay, afternoon at Kragga Kamma Game Park, farewell dinner in Richmond Hill.

5-Day Visit

Day 1: City exploration, Donkin Reserve, and city beaches. Day 2: Full day at Addo Elephant National Park. Day 3: Coastal exploration including Cape Recife Nature Reserve and Sacramento Trail. Day 4: Day trip to Jeffreys Bay for surfing or beach activities. Day 5: Kragga Kamma Game Park, shopping, and farewell dinner.

7-Day Visit

Day 1: City orientation and historical sites. Day 2: Beach day and water activities. Day 3: Full day at Addo Elephant National Park. Day 4: Day trip to Storms River Mouth and Tsitsikamma. Day 5: Sundays River sandboarding and wildlife viewing. Day 6: Day trip to Jeffreys Bay. Day 7: Last-minute shopping, farewell meal, and relaxation.

Sustainable Tourism Tips

• Support locally owned businesses and tour operators
• Choose eco-friendly accommodation options
• Participate in beach clean-up initiatives
• Respect wildlife viewing guidelines
• Use water sparingly (South Africa is a water-scarce country)
• Consider carbon offsetting for your flights

Local Transportation Options

• Uber/Bolt: Most convenient for tourists
• Metered taxis: Available but should be booked through hotels or restaurants
• Car rental: Best for exploring beyond the city limits
• Walking: Feasible in certain areas like the beachfront and Boardwalk complex

Must-Try Local Experiences

• Sundowners at Something Good Roadhouse overlooking the ocean
• Safari drive in Addo Elephant National Park
• Tour of the township areas with a local guide
• Sampling local craft beers at Bridge Street Brewery
• Swimming with African penguins at Bayworld
• Hiking the Sacramento Trail to the shipwreck
• Visiting the Valley Market for local food and crafts

Final Tips and Recommendations

Port Elizabeth offers the perfect blend of city life, coastal beauty, and wildlife experiences. For the best experience:

• Plan at least one full day for Addo Elephant National Park
• Balance beach time with cultural experiences
• Consider PE as part of a larger Garden Route itinerary
• Take advantage of the city’s access to malaria-free safaris
• Engage with locals for authentic recommendations
• Remember that PE is less touristy than Cape Town, offering a more authentic South African experience

Port Elizabeth may not have the international fame of Cape Town or Johannesburg, but its combination of beautiful beaches, accessible wildlife, friendly locals, and affordable prices makes it one of South Africa’s most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking an authentic experience.