Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
Surf’s up on the Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast ,Eastern Cape
Walking the dog along the Sunshine Coast.
© Chris Marais
Did you know?
The Sunshine Coast, Eastern Cape, gets the most sunshine in South Africa.
The Sunshine Coast, Eastern Cape, is unlike its international namesakes in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. For a start, it's always sunny on this Sunshine Coast and, despite its popularity with local and international visitors, the region has managed to avoid excessive commercialisation and retain an element of old-world charm.
Sunshine Coast attractions abound, from the pristine sub-tropical forests of Tsitsikamma with its numerous eco-trails and hikes, to the luxury bush destinations inland and its magnificent 500km stretch of beach that nudges the warm Indian Ocean, complete with sheltered coves, rock pools and lagoons.
The Sunshine Coast tourism route incorporates the quaint resorts of Kenton-on-Sea, Port Alfred, Cape St. Francis and St. Francis Bay, all of which exude a typical seaside village ambience. It also features the watersport hotspot, Jeffrey's Bay, which is considered the ‘home of the perfect wave' and one of the best surfing spots in the world. J-Bay, as the locals call it, hosts the popular Billabong Pro international surfing event each year.
The Tsitsikamma National Park marks the start of the Eastern Cape's Sunshine Coast, and is an absolute must for adventure seekers. Abseiling, hiking, river rides, nature trails and the world's highest commercial bungee jump are all on offer in this protected park.
At the route's northern end is the coastal town of East London, affectionately known as Buffalo City. Like much of the rest of the Eastern Cape, this town has a rich history associated with the local people and the impact of the arrival of early European settlers. Further historical attractions can be sought out in the various inland towns, most notably Grahamstown.
The Sunshine Coast is also home to several nature reserves, including the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Complex, renowned Addo Elephant National Park and Shamwari Game Reserve, which offer authentic wildlife experiences in a malaria-free setting.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
The Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency
Tel: +27 (0) 43 701 9600
E-mail: info@ectourism.co.za
South African National Parks
Tel: +27 (0)12 428 9111
E-mail: reservations@sanparks.org
How to get here
Fly direct from any of South Africa’s major cities to Port Elizabeth International Airport. If you’re driving; from Johannesburg take the N1 south and then the N9 after Colesberg. Pick up the N10 at Middleburg to Port Elizabeth. Travel north, up the coast, to enjoy the Sunshine Coast from Port Elizabeth to East London or south, down the coast, to enjoy the route from Port Elizabeth to Tsitsikamma. If travelling from Cape Town and Durban, take the N2 east and west respectively to Tsitsikamma or East London.
Around the area
Trips to interior towns and villages like Bathurst, Grahamstown and Addo.
Tours to do
A day trip to Sibuya Game Reserve near Kenton-on-Sea, for a game drive and river cruise; a horse safari on the Fish River at Port Alfred; the Dolphin Trail at Tsitsikamma; and visits to the Jeffreys Bay Shell and Jeffreys Bay Surf museums.
Get around
The area is best explored by car.
Length of stay
While excellent day trips can be planned, you will need nearly two weeks to explore the region thoroughly
Where to stay
The Sunshine Coast offers a wide range of accommodation from hotels to B&B's, guest houses and backpackers.
What to eat
The coast is renowned for excellent sea food.
What's happening
The Billabong Pro international surfing event takes place at Jeffreys Bay each July.