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Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth
Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Port Elizabeth was formally founded when British settlers landed in Algoa Bay in 1820.
Hobie Beach is located in Algoa Bay, a 40 km stretch of magnificent coastline along Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape. Epithets like the ‘Sunshine Coast', the ‘water sports capital of South Africa' and the ‘Friendly City', give clues to the kind of beach experience that rewards visitors to this region.
The Sunshine Coast is so-called because it has the most sunny days in South Africa, and Port Elizabeth is said to have the 4th best weather among coastal cities worldwide, so holiday makers looking to soak up some rays can sun-bake on its beaches all year round. Like its Blue Flag beach cousins, Humewood and King's Beaches, Hobie is blessed with warm temperate summers; mild, pleasant winters and average sea temperatures of 16 - 22 degrees C.
Situated off Marine Drive in the seaside hub of Summerstrand, Hobie Beach has ablutions, attractive picnic spots, large children's playgrounds; ample parking areas and trained professional lifeguards during the summer season. A favourite spot for swimming and sunbathing, sheltered rock pools brim with inter-tidal sea life, and anglers fish from Shark Rock Pier, whilst swapping tales about ‘the one that got away'.
Hobie Beach's combination of calm waters and fair breezes provide some of the best boardsailing conditions in the world, and both long- and short-boarders love its excellent waves and big shore break. Windsurfing, kite surfing, rubber ducking, jet skiing, power boating, wave jumping, sailing and yachting are all practiced here. Scuba diving enthusiasts can explore ship wrecks, coral reefs amidst sub-tropical fish in its warm waters.
Nearby, the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World, Brooke's Pavilion and the Lighthouse Entertainment Centre offer amusements, shopping, dining and gaming.
This Port Elizabeth beach also hosts the annual "Splash Festival", and the Beach Volleyball and World Boardsailing Championships. Southern Right whales pass by between July and October; and Humpback whales are seen in June, July and December.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)41 582 2575
Tel: +27 (0)41 582 2573
Email: info@nmbt.co.za
Donkin Reserve
Tel: +27 (0)41 585 8884
Email: donkin@nmbt.co.za
Around the area
Shamwari Private Game Reserve is home to the Big 5; and Addo Elephant Park conserves Eastern Cape elephants and Cape buffalo. At Humewood Beach, Bayworld comprises an Oceanarium, Snake Park and Museum. Hike the 8-km Sacramento trail from Sardinia Bay Marine Reserve, and play 5 excellent golf courses.
Tours to do
Try sundowner cruises or walk the Donkin Heritage trail.
What to pack
Even though temperatures along the Eastern Cape Coast are milder, sun protection is recommended. Bring your usual beach goodies or buy them here, then hire the equipment you’ll need at the beach front.
Where to stay
Camping, caravanning, backpacker’s hostels, eco-friendly lodges, township B&Bs, value-for-money seaside apartments or luxury hotels and 5-star game lodges – PE’s got them all.
What to eat
Great seafood restaurants abound in the Humewood area near the beachfront.
What's happening
Port Elizabeth has a full lineup of happenings, including the Richmond Hill Street Music Festival and the Donkin Downhill Dash - see the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism website for details of these and other events.