Things To Do
in Port Alfred
Port Alfred is a relaxed coastal town on the Eastern Cape of South Africa, sitting on the mouth of the Kowie River between Grahamstown (Makhanda) and Kenton-on-Sea. It is known for its sandy beaches, water sports—especially boating and surfing—and a friendly small-town atmosphere. The town mixes Victorian-era architecture with modern holiday facilities and serves as a gateway to nearby nature reserves and private game lodges.
Port Alfred is popular with families, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quieter alternative to bigger seaside resorts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Port Alfred and check into your accommodation. Take some time to unpack and freshen up after your journey. Stroll along the pristine beaches to soak in the serene coastal atmosphere.
Explore the town and grab a delicious lunch at one of the local cafes. Visit the Great Fish River Museum to learn about the area’s history and heritage. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank as you take in the scenic views.
Relish a seaside dinner at a restaurant known for fresh seafood. Watch the sunset paint the sky with hues of orange and pink over the Indian Ocean. End the night by relaxing at your accommodation or enjoying a nightcap at a local bar.
Spend the morning at Kelly's Beach, where you can swim in the warm waters or just lounge under the sun. Participate in beach games like volleyball or build sandcastles with family. The soft sounds of the waves create a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
Enjoy lunch at a beachfront bistro offering fresh local dishes. Afterward, embark on a kayak adventure in the nearby estuary, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The afternoon sun adds a golden hue to the landscape, making it a picturesque experience.
As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, collecting shells and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. Have dinner at a popular local spot where you can enjoy traditional South African cuisine. Cap off the evening with some stargazing on the beach, listening to the gentle sound of waves crashing in the background.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (within town) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel/night (double) | $60-120 |
| 🎣Half-day fishing/boat charter (per person) | $30-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal atmosphere with good beaches and water activities
- Close access to estuary and nature reserves for wildlife and birdwatching
- Friendly small-town hospitality and slower pace
- Good base for exploring Eastern Cape attractions like private game reserves and nearby historic towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options compared to larger coastal cities
- Fewer high-end services and medical facilities locally—may require travel to larger towns
- Public transport options are limited; car recommended for flexibility
- Seasonal crowding during peak holiday periods
- "Hello / Hi" - Hallo / Hi
- "Thank you (English)" - Thank you
- "Thank you (Afrikaans)" - Dankie
- "Thank you (Xhosa)" - Enkosi
- "Please" - Asseblief (Afrikaans) / Ndicela (Xhosa)
- "Where is the beach?" - Waar is die strand? / Phi na ulwandle?
Places to Visit in Port Alfred
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque river opening to the sea with boats, estuary reflections and varied birdlife—excellent for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Wide sandy beaches and rocky outcrops provide classic coastal compositions, surfers in action and sweeping seascapes at dusk.
Charming streets and period architecture along the river offer atmospheric street and architectural photography opportunities.
Elevated vantage points overlooking the harbour and town give panoramic views ideal for wide-angle shots.
Dense coastal vegetation, wildflowers in season and birdlife provide excellent close-up and macro photography possibilities.
Food in Port Alfred
Port Alfred Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh local fish (often kingklip, kabeljou/blacktail or hake depending on season) served grilled or battered with chips — widely available at beachfront eateries and takeaways.
Must-Try!
South African-style braai (barbecue) featuring local line-caught fish or snoek when in season; often enjoyed with chakalaka and pap at local events or at guesthouses.
Assorted fried or grilled seafood platters showcasing calamari, prawns and small local shellfish; a good way to sample regional seafood offerings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small weekend markets and craft stalls pop up with home-baked goods, preserves, artisanal cheeses and occasionally food trucks; great for sampling jams, rusks and baked treats.
Seasonal beachfront vendors sell items like fish-and-chips, grilled corn and takeaway coffee; ideal for casual bites during a beach day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake are common; English is widely spoken, and using a polite greeting in Afrikaans or Xhosa can be warmly received.
Be respectful when photographing people—ask permission—and be mindful of private property around estuaries and farms.
Casual beachwear is fine for the shore, but cover up when entering shops or restaurants; modesty is appreciated in more traditional settings.
Safety
Tipping in Port Alfred
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; typical tips are 10–15% in restaurants if service isn’t included, R5–R20 for casual attendants, and around 10% for taxi drivers or rounding up fares.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and shops; small vendors and markets may prefer cash. ATMs are available in town but carry some cash in case of outages or remote excursions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February brings warm, sunny weather perfect for swimming, surfing and boating; expect higher visitor numbers and busy beaches during holidays.
March to May offers milder temperatures, fewer crowds and pleasant conditions for hiking, fishing and photography as the light softens.
June to August is cooler and wetter with chilly mornings but still many clear days—ideal for whale watching along parts of the coast and quieter travel; bring warm layers.
September to November sees wildflowers and bird migration, warming temperatures and good conditions for outdoor activities before peak summer crowds arrive.
Port Alfred at Night
Hiking in Port Alfred
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside walks along the estuary with birdwatching opportunities, gentle terrain and scenic viewpoints—great for sunrise or relaxed afternoon strolls.
Coastal pathway sections that link beaches and rocky viewpoints; short to moderate walks with sea views and opportunities to spot shorebirds and small tide pools.
Nearby private game reserve (around the Kenton-on-Sea area) offering guided walks and wildlife-viewing trails—good for combining a hike with game-viewing experiences.
Short nature walks on private farms or small reserves in the surrounding hills where you can see indigenous trees, wildflowers in season and local birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Port Alfred by plane.
Approximately 80–100 km (about 1.5–2 hours by road) southwest of Port Alfred; a common gateway with domestic flights and car hire options to reach Port Alfred by road.
About 120–140 km east of Port Alfred (around 1.5–2 hours by car depending on route); serves domestic flights and is another practical arrival point for the region.
Grahamstown (Makhanda) is the closest larger town by road (about 45 minutes inland) but has no major commercial airport; travellers may use road transfers from regional airports or bus services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the local population, many speak Xhosa and are part of the broader Eastern Cape cultural landscape.
A mixed-heritage community present in the region with cultural ties to the Eastern Cape and coastal towns.
Many residents and seasonal holidaymakers are Afrikaans or English speakers with long-standing family and business ties to the town.
Smaller communities are present, contributing to the multicultural mix typical of South African towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local beaches and nearby breaks attract surfers year-round, with peak conditions in summer and consistent beach breaks for different skill levels.
Recreational fishing—both estuary and shore—remains a major draw for locals and visitors, with competitions and charters available seasonally.
Traditional South African sports like rugby and cricket are widely followed and played at club and school level; local matches are social highlights.
The Kowie River and nearby coastline are popular for small-boat sailing, yachting and motorboating.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Alfred.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with larger cities; cafés and bistros usually offer salads, vegetarian burgers and pasta—ask staff about daily vegetarian specials.
Vegan choices exist but can be scarce in small seaside towns; bring snacks and check menus ahead of time or request plant-based modifications at cafés.
Some cafés and bakeries can accommodate gluten-free requests, but selection is modest—notify restaurants in advance when possible and carry necessary staples if you have serious allergies.