Coffee Bay

Coffee Bay is a remote paradise on South Africa's Wild Coast, allegedly named after a cargo of coffee beans that washed up on its shores. Its main draw is the nearby 'Hole in the Wall', a spectacular rock archway standing in the sea, reachable via a scenic cliff-top hike. The village is known for its raw beauty, rolling green hills dotted with traditional Xhosa huts (rondavels), and an animated, laid-back backpacking scene. Here, life slows down to the rhythm of nature. Visitors can take surf lessons, swim in local lagoons, or join guided walks to learn about indigenous plants and Xhosa traditions. The local dining is rustic and welcoming, often featuring the catch of the day. Reaching the bay involves a long drive on a potholed road from Mthatha, which helps preserve its untouched character. The best time to visit is from April to July, offering stable weather and pleasant temperatures for hiking. Summer is also popular, though it can be hot and humid with occasional tropical rain.

Nearby cities

Gqeberha

Formerly known as Port Elizabeth, this coastal city is a major hub for the South African automotive industry.

East London

South Africa's only river port city is situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River on the Indian Ocean.

Kariega

Formerly called Uitenhage, this industrial town is heavily involved in the production of cars and tires.

Mthatha

Formerly known as Umtata, it was the capital of the Transkei and is deeply connected to the history of Nelson Mandela.

Bhisho

This small town serves as the administrative capital of the Eastern Cape province and houses government buildings.

Komani

A town surrounded by mountains, historically designed as a strategic outpost.

Makhanda

Previously known as Grahamstown, the city is famous for its educational institutions and annual arts festival.

Graaff-Reinet

The fourth-oldest town in the country, enclosed by a bend of the Sundays River, full of Cape Dutch architecture.

Aliwal North

The town on the Orange River is mostly known for its hot mineral springs, drawing many visitors.

Cradock

A historic gem in the heart of the Karoo, renowned for its Victorian architecture and as a gateway to the Mountain Zebra National Park.

Jeffreys Bay

World-renowned as a surfer's paradise, this town offers endless beaches, famous waves, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a vibrant coastal town situated on the Kowie River, offering magnificent beaches and a bustling marina.

Gonubie

A scenic coastal town near East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape, known for its river mouth and sandy beaches.

Bushman's River Mouth

Bushman's River Mouth is a picturesque coastal town on the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its spectacular river estuary.

Port Edward

Port Edward is a popular resort town on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, near the border with the Eastern Cape.

History & landmarks

Port Elizabeth City Hall

A historic government building featuring a prominent clock tower in the center of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Addo

World-famous for its Elephant National Park, Addo offers unparalleled wildlife safaris in the malaria-free Eastern Cape.

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) featuring a distinctive roof design.

Owl House

A fascinating house and sculpture garden created by outsider artist Helen Martins in Nieu-Bethesda.

More places

Wild Coast

An untouched, rugged coastline on the Indian Ocean.

Port of East London

South Africa's only remaining river port, situated at the mouth of the Buffalo River.

Mercedes-Benz Plant East London

A premier automotive plant responsible for manufacturing the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Amathole Mountains

A forested mountain range in the Eastern Cape.

Winterberg

A mountain region in the Eastern Cape with cooler temperatures.

Addo Citrus Farm

Discover the cultivation of citrus fruits in the Addo region.

Addo Elephant National Park

A well-known park for its elephant herds.

Mountain Zebra National Park

Conservation area for the rare South African mountain zebra.