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Just 15 minutes off the N2 between Tsitsikamma and Port Elizabeth lies St Francis Bay. Less well known than its popular neighbour, St Francis Bay is built around an extensive 7km marina and canal system.
Combined with the attractive whitewashed and thatched homes, this small village has an exclusive, upmarket feel to it, and it is easy to spend 2 or 3 days relaxing here.
With its surrounding coastline, there is a wealth of activities to offer those looking to spend some time near the sea and away from the crowds. Or if you don't fancy being active, simply just relax with a good book around the pool at your guest house.
The area is most famous amongst surfers for its spectacular waves - 'Bruce's Beauties' (after the photographer who featured them in the 1960's cult film 'Endless Summer') and Seal Point, which when at its best can give surfers a ride of up to 150m.
Nearby Jeffrey's Bay is home to South Africa's longest and most consistent wave, and is the 'icing on the cake' for surf fanatics. Supertubes, Magnatubes, Boneyards, and Point ... if this means something to you, then you will be in 7th heaven here.
You can also shop till you drop in the many Surf industry factory shops including Quiksilver and Billabong.
If you have never tried surfing, but don't want to miss out on the fun, several operators offer lessons to get you started.
The prime wave season in Jeffrey's Bay is June to August, but the swell has been known to reach the coast as early as April, and last until the end of September.
Surfing Without Getting Wet ...
The nearby dunes at Jeffrey's Bay are the highest and most spectacular in South Africa, and a perfect playground for sandboarding.
If you have always wanted to try sandboarding, but never quite got round to it, then this is the place to try it.
Experienced instructors provide tuition for beginners, starting on a gentle slope and, as you feel your confidence growing, so does the height you start from.
Soon you'll be hurtling down the dunes and wondering why you haven't tried this before.
Travel Butlers can recommend an operator in the area who will take you out, providing all transport, equipment and refreshments - and of course good instruction if required!
Cycling with Rhinos
Another experience not to be missed is the Game Farm Mountain Biking Trail, which takes you on trails past the resident rhinos, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, eland, and other game.
Be prepared for a serious adrenalin rush when you spot a rhino!
Alternatively, there is the Waterfall Trail, which goes through the Kabeljous Nature Reserve, and ends up at a secluded waterfall, where you can swim or just relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Both trails are not strenuous and you don't have to be an expert mountain biker. Biking time for each is around 2 hours.
Other Activities
Other activities include horse riding along the fabulous expanses of beach, whale watching in season, playing a round on the 18 hole links golf course, or exploring the canals by boat.
What Other People Have Said ...
Some guidebooks (notably Lonely Planet) have said that they cannot recommend St Francis Bay because it is 'artificial'.
If you go along with this view, then you will miss out on the opportunity to see this attractive village with its friendly, laid-back atmosphere, miles of canals, and superb coastline.
The only thing that is missing is hoards of backpackers clutching a Lonely Planet guide book...
Special Offers
The Sands @ St Francis Bay: Stay 3 nights for the price of 2Valid for travel from 1 April 2012 to 30 September 2012
view all St Francis Bay special offers
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Thatchwood Country Lodge, St Francis Bay
Guest House / B&B
Thatchwood Country Lodge offers a peaceful retreat for its guests. Overlooking the 6th fairway of the golf course, guests can relax in the gardens or around the swimming pool, and enjoy the pleasant surroundings.
Milkwood Country Cottage, St Francis Bay
Guest House / B&B
Milkwood Country Cottage has unique charm. It is here you will come to enjoy time to yourself, time to unwind and rejuvenate.
Sandals, St Francis Bay
Guest House / B&B
Situated near the beach in the pretty town of St Francis Bay, Sandals is a beautiful thatched building decorated in a bright and stylish Afro Caribbean style and set in a lush garden. The en-suite rooms have satellite TV, and most open out onto a veranda or a private deck.
The Dunes, St Francis Bay
Country House
The Dunes is an exclusive family owned retreat in picturesque St. Francis Bay.
Diaz 15, Jeffreys Bay
Guest House / B&B
The suites have either one or 2 bedrooms, and all have a living room with TV, a dining room and fully equipped kitchen. All the bedrooms are en-suite.
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Contact Details
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- South Africa: 0-800-981-420
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