Welcome to Gqeberha, the sunshine gem of South Africa’s coastline! Here you find a dash of history, a splash of adventure, and a generous sprinkle of laid-back beach vibes. PE, as the locals affectionately call it (after its former name Port Elizabeth), is where you can sip coffee while watching dolphins dance in the surf, then wander through streets rich with stories from the past. So, grab your flip-flops and sense of adventure—PE is where every wave invites you to dive in!
Beaches
If you’re craving a fun beach day, King’s Beach and Hobie Beach in Gqeberha are perfect! Start at King’s Beach with its golden sands, gentle waves, and plenty of room for sunbathing, frisbee, or volleyball. Then, head to Hobie Beach for a more relaxed vibe, rock pools to explore, and calm waters ideal for paddleboarding or snorkelling. Whether you’re chasing waves or just chilling, these beaches have the perfect seaside magic! And if you’re up for a bit of a hidden gem, don’t miss Sardinia Bay Beach—a stunning stretch of untouched sand dunes and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those who love a wild, windswept escape!
City walks
Combine history and art with a city walk via Gqeberha’s Donkin Heritage Trail and Route 67. Starting at the Donkin Reserve, with its iconic lighthouse and pyramid, the 5-kilometer Heritage Trail guides you past 51 historical gems like Fort Frederick and City Hall, showcasing Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Route 67 adds a vibrant twist, featuring 67 public artworks celebrating Nelson Mandela’s legacy. The trail weaves through cultural landmarks like the Campanile and Vuysile Mini Market Square, ending at the towering South African flag, immersing you in both the city’s past and the spirit of freedom.
Whale watching
Bluewater Bay and Pollock Beach in Gqeberha are destinations for whale watching with humpback whales sighted between June and August, and again between November and January, southern right whales sighted between July and November, and Bryde’s whales sighted all year round.
Activities
- Cape Recife Lighthouse Tour: Visit the iconic black-and-white striped Cape Recife Lighthouse, standing since 1851 at the southeastern tip of Africa. Climb its 24-meter octagonal tower on a guided tour for breathtaking 360-degree views of the ocean, dunes, and cityscape.
- Beach Fun: Visit King’s Beach or Hobie Beach for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports like volleyball or frisbee.
- Donkin Heritage Trail: Walk through 51 historical sites, including the iconic Donkin Reserve, Fort Frederick, and City Hall.
- Route 67 Art Trail: Discover 67 public artworks celebrating Nelson Mandela’s legacy, ending at the towering South African flag.
- Boat Tours: Go on dolphin or whale-watching tours, with peak whale season between June and November.
How to get there
Nestled on the western edge of Algoa Bay along South Africa’s southeastern coast, Gqeberha (since 2021 Gqeberha), is situated 770 km east of Cape Town, 7 to 9 hours by car. Positioned just east of the Garden Route, it boasts a stunning outlook over the Indian Ocean.
Climate
Gqeberha basks in a mild Mediterranean climate, where warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters create a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts. During summer (December to February), temperatures hover between 20°C and 26°C, offering sunny, beach-perfect days. Winter (June to August) brings milder temperatures of 9°C to 19°C with crisp, clear skies and occasional rain. Spring and autumn offer a delightful transition with mild temperatures and gentle weather, making Gqeberha a consistently inviting destination for visitors.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Gqeberha depends on your preferences: for sun-soaked beach days and outdoor fun, summer (December to February) is ideal with its warm temperatures and sunny skies, though it can be busy with tourists. If you’re visiting Gqeberha in winter (June to August), the mild, cooler temperatures and dry conditions are perfect for exploring the city’s cultural and historical sites, like the Donkin Heritage Trail and Route 67, without the summer crowds. June marks the beginning of the whale season, with southern right whales often spotted along the coast. For a more tranquil experience, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) provide pleasant weather and a chance to enjoy the city’s attractions and natural beauty without the peak-season rush.
Travel tips from our experts
Pack for the Weather
Summer: Bring light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear. The sun can be strong, and you’ll want to be prepared for beach days and outdoor activities.
Winter: Pack layers, including a warm jacket, as temperatures can drop in the evenings. Daytime is mild but cooler than summer.
Information and facts
Welcome to Gqeberha, where history meets beach vibes, and dolphins give you a morning show while you sip your coffee! Whether you’re whale-watching, wandering through Nelson Mandela’s art trail, or diving into hidden beaches, this sunny slice of South Africa promises fun at every flip-flop step!
Did you know that…
- …Gqeberha lies on the country’s southeast coast and has no less than 300 days of sunshine per year? It is rightly called the sunshine gem!
- …the city was originally called Port Elizabeth but was renamed Gqeberha in 2021 (after the Xhosa name for the Baakens River running through the city) in an attempt to honor the African roots of the country?
- …you have a chance to see three different kinds of whales just off the coast? The humpback, southern right, and Bryde’s whale all show their noses near this city!
