Jeffreys Bay

Jeffreys Bay, or simply 'J-Bay', is a legendary destination for surfers, home to 'Supertubes', one of the world's finest right-hand point breaks. The town is steeped in surf culture, evident in its numerous surf shops, factory outlets, and the relaxed lifestyle of its residents. However, J-Bay has more than just waves; its expansive sandy beaches are excellent for families, and shell collecting is a popular local pastime. The local Shell Museum showcases an impressive collection from around the globe. The natural surroundings of Jeffreys Bay feature lagoons and small nature reserves like the Kabeljous River Nature Reserve, which is excellent for hiking and bird watching. During the winter months, whales and dolphins are frequently spotted directly from the shoreline. The local cuisine is dominated by fresh seafood, with local calamari being a standout specialty. The town is easily accessible via the N2 highway from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). The best time for surfers is from May to September when the swells are most consistent, while the summer months are well-suited for a traditional beach holiday.

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.

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.

Port St Johns

An untouched destination on the Wild Coast, where massive cliffs meet the ocean and a relaxed, alternative vibe prevails.

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

Klasies River Caves

The Klasies River Caves on the East Coast contain evidence that modern humans lived here continuously about 125,000 years ago.

Volkswagen Plant Kariega

The largest car plant in Africa, producing the popular Polo model for international distribution.

Port of Gqeberha

Formerly known as the Port of Port Elizabeth, it is a key facility for the automotive export industry.

Port of Ngqura

A deep-water port adjacent to the Coega Industrial Development Zone, designed to handle new generation vessels.

Tsitsikamma Forest

A protected coastal forest along the Garden Route.

Addo Elephant National Park

Reserve famous for its massive elephant herds.

Baviaanskloof Valley

A spectacular, deeply incised valley.

Suurberg Mountains

A mountain range in the Addo Elephant National Park area.