Claiming to have the best climate and more sunshine than any other coastal resort in the country, Port Elizabeth is a popular holiday destination, and renowned for its beautiful coastline and long sandy beaches. 

Known more fondly as just PE, Port Elizabeth is a small, lively city and major seaport, and the warmth of the people have earned it the well-deserved reputation as 'The Friendly City'.  

With plenty to do and see, it is an ideal place to base yourself for a few days to thoroughly explore the region. 

The Boardwalk

The 'Boardwalk' is an experience in its own right - but as it is owned by the same company who have brought us Sun City, that should not come as too much of a surprise!

This beach front complex is the lively heart of Port Elizabeth.

There is only one way to appreciate the Boardwalk, and that is to have plenty of time on your hands. 

The main attractions are shopping for fashion or gifts, dining out in one of the many excellent restaurants offering everything from steak to sushi, catching a movie at the cinema or relaxing in one of the bars, or spending a few hours in the casino with its 747 slot machines and 22 casino tables.

There is even a small outdoor funfair if you feel like releasing your inner child (or indeed have children with you!).

At night, the complex becomes transformed into a fairy wonderland of lights, reflecting off the centre lake area and making you grab for your camera (and tripod if you want the shot to come out really clearly!

One of PE's greatest assets is its clean and beautiful beaches.  Long beach walks along the vast stretches of golden sand are a superb way to spend a few hours. 

During the whale watching season between June and December, Southern Right whales are a familiar sight along the coastline, and can be easily sighted from the shore. Humpback whales pass by during June and July, and again in November and December, and the Bryde's whale is present throughout the year. 

The Watersport Capital of South Africa

With water temperatures varying between 14 and 21°C throughout the year, and generally calm sea conditions, PE is ideal for swimming and other watersport and beach activities, including sailing, surfing, angling, and of course, diving. 

Rated as one of South Africa's best cold water dive sites, the conditions are ideal all-year round, with visibility between 8 and 15 metres in the bay during the winter months. 

Protected by the Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth prides itself in its safe access to many dive sites. 

A wide variety of fish, densely populated and colourful reefs, and interesting shipwrecks await divers who venture into the depths of the Indian Ocean here.

Seaview Lion Park

Only 30 minutes drive from Port Elizabeth will get you to the Seaview Lion Park, and it is certainly worth the short drive.

As the name suggests, here you can get to see lions - albeit it behind fences - including a beautiful white lion.  However, the real highlight is having the opportunity to cuddle and play with a lion cub (at an addition cost on top of the main entrance fee).

Although not really suitable for very young children (the cubs may look sweet and innocent, but they are still pretty strong!), it is a wonderful experience and certainly not one that can be repeated in many places in Africa!

Don't get too excited, however, about the 'self-drive' through the lion enclosure - if you blink, you may miss it ...

Special Offers

Hacklewood Hill: Stay 3 nights for the price of 2
Valid for travel from 1 October 2011 to 31 October 2012
view all Port Elizabeth special offers

Suggested Holiday Itinerary

Suggested Itineraries

Prices from US$ 1,564 pp*For the more Budget Conscious
14 day itinerary.
Guide price valid for travel in May 2012

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*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.

Prices exclude international flights - ask us if you would like to include these.

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Properties 1 to 5 of 13

African Sands, Port Elizabeth

Guest House / B&B

   Average guest rating:4.2

African Sands is a refined haven of comfort where guests are assured of outstanding hospitality and exceptional personal service. The guest house is only 5 minutes from Port Elizabeth’s airport and within walking distance from the blue flag beaches, beachfront restaurants and shops.

From ZAR290 ( approx US$ 39 ) per person.

The Kelway Hotel, Port Elizabeth

Hotel

   Average guest rating:4.2

Built high up overlooking Kings Beach and Algoa Bay, outstanding hospitality and breathtaking views greet discerning visitors to the Kelway Hotel. All 62 rooms are tastefully decorated and comfortably furnished.

From ZAR450 ( approx US$ 61 ) per person.

Garden Court Kings Beach, Port Elizabeth

Hotel

   Average guest rating:4.2

The Garden Court Kings Beach hotel is situated in a residential area of Port Elizabeth, overlooking Algoa Bay. The hotel is within walking distance to the Boardwalk entertainment complex, with a wide variety of activities and restaurants.

From ZAR550 ( approx US$ 74 ) per person.

Ibhayi Guest Lodge, Port Elizabeth

Guest House / B&B

   Average guest rating:4.0

Ibhayi Guest Lodge nestles in the leafy, village atmosphere of central Walmer, in Port Elizabeth. Ibhayi Lodge offers 10 kingsize suites and 2 family suites.

From ZAR600 ( approx US$ 81 ) per person.

Brighton Lodge, Port Elizabeth

Guest House / B&B

   Average guest rating:3.3

Only minutes from the beaches, restaurants and bars of Port Elizabeth's exclusive Summerstrand suburb, Brighton Lodge offers guests peace and quiet, as well as warm hospitality in its 11 tastefully furnished en-suite rooms. All the individually decorated rooms are equipped with wireless internet, kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave, kettle, toaster, telephone, television (M-Net and DSTV), hairdryer, tea / coffee facilities, ceiling fans, heaters, under floor heating and a safe.

From ZAR535 ( approx US$ 72 ) per person.

Properties 1 to 5 of 13