Famed as Africa’s Water Sports Capital, the ‘Friendly City’ Port Elizabeth is a lovely travel destination half-way between Cape Town and Durban in South Africa. It is the second oldest city in the country, offering plenty of wonderful beaches and incredible surf spots.
If you are looking for a perfect beach holiday in South Africa with a bit of culture, good food and some retail therapy, Port Elizabeth is the place for you. Here are some of the best attractions to explore in the city:
Algoa Bay
Situated 425 miles east of the Cape of the Good Hope, Algoa Bay is an ideal adventure spot in the city. One of the world’s few bays with two huge harbours – Coega and Port Elizabeth – it is where tourists love to indulge in exciting activities such as sailing, surfing, kayaking, wind surfing and kiteboarding. The bay is up to 436 metres deep and lies adjacent to the harbour city. Besides, it is a perfect spot to enjoy whale watching and being part of sunset cruises.
Kragga Kamma Game Park
A wildlife haven situated less than half-an-hour drive from the city, Kragga Kamma Game Reserve is a must-visit tourist spot. Ideal for guided safaris and nature walks, the park promises exciting wildlife experiences to the visitors. From White Rhino, Zebra, Nyala and Cheetah to Giraffe, Buffalo, Lechwe and Bontebok, you’ll get an opportunity to witness them all here in the park. You can rent a car to drive through the park.
Bayworld
A unique place to explore, Bayworld is a cultural and natural history museum boasting of a Snake Park and Oceanarium. It is a long-running kid-friendly place presenting plenty of maritime and historical exhibits, and animal shows. Snake interaction sessions, and seal and penguin presentations are the major highlights here. Moreover, you can treat your eyes to the amazing view of the slithery reptiles and underwater marine wonders, and can also witness a shark through the safety of a glass window.
Addo Elephant Park
The third largest national park of South Africa, Addo Elephant Park is where visitors can have the true African safari experience! A malaria-free, big five game reserve, it is an ideal place to explore a wide range of landscapes and flora and fauna. There are around 550 African elephants here – among the densest in the world. Not just the elephants but you will also get a chance to spot rhinos, buffaloes, lions, zebras and penguins. Besides, visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities such as horse riding, hiking and guided walking.
Sardinia Bay
Bordering the Chelsea Downs Nature Reserve, Sardinia Bay is a beautiful stretch of beach called “Sards” by locals. The sub tidal rocky reefs and sandy benthos along the bay make a sight to behold whereas water sports opportunities offered here, including boating and diving, are a treat for adventure enthusiasts. The beach is frequently visited by a number of surfers, sand boarding enthusiasts and kite surfers as well as families.