Things To Do
in Port Saint John’s
Port Saint John’s is a small coastal town located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its picturesque beaches, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage. The town serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking activities such as hiking, fishing, and whale watching.
With its charming atmosphere and stunning scenery, Port Saint John’s offers a peaceful escape for visitors looking to relax and unwind.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of Africa. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach and watch the sunrise over the ocean.
Grab lunch at a local café before exploring the vibrant rock pools and marine life along the coast. You can try sandboarding on the dunes for an exhilarating experience.
End your day with a sunset cruise on the ocean, taking in the stunning views of the coastline. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Begin with a hike at the Tsitsikamma National Park, where you can experience lush forests and majestic sea cliffs. Look out for wildlife along the trails.
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature in one of the park's many designated areas. Afterward, take a canopy tour to see the forest from a new perspective.
Wind down with a stargazing session at your accommodation, as the area offers clear skies for breathtaking views. Enjoy a cozy barbecue dinner under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal views and access to beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant community.
- Economic opportunities due to port activities.
- Mild climate suitable for outdoor activities year-round.
- Proximity to various natural attractions and parks.
- High crime rate in certain areas.
- Limited access to certain amenities compared to bigger cities.
- Potential for economic fluctuations due to reliance on port trade.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Environmental concerns related to port activities.
Best Activities in Port Saint John’s
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the majestic whales off the coast of Port Saint John’s, especially between June and October when the Southern Right whales and humpback whales migrate to the warmer waters.
Explore the scenic trails along the Wild Coast, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline, lush vegetation, and a chance to encounter local wildlife.
Paddle along the Umzimvubu River and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, with opportunities for bird watching and fishing.
Join a deep-sea fishing charter and try your luck at catching tuna, marlin, and other game fish in the rich waters of the Indian Ocean.
Spend a day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Port Saint John’s, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.
Take a hike to see the famous Hole in the Wall, a natural rock formation and iconic landmark that offers a stunning photo opportunity.
Enjoy bird watching in the diverse ecosystems surrounding Port Saint John’s, where you can spot various endemic and migratory bird species.
Engage with the local Xhosa culture through guided tours that include traditional music, dance, and traditional craft workshops.
Explore the rugged terrain and scenic views around Port Saint John’s on a mountain biking adventure suitable for various skill levels.
Places to Visit in Port Saint John’s
Visit one of these nice places.
The southernmost point of Africa offers stunning views where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, providing unique photo opportunities of the iconic lighthouse and rugged coastline.
Known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, Sani Pass is a must-visit for dramatic views and is a popular spot for adventure photography.
This area is famed for its rugged cliffs and pristine beaches, ideal for capturing the wild beauty of the Eastern Cape's coastline.
A picturesque beach that offers stunning sunset views and vibrant photographs of the local landscape, as well as opportunities to capture surfers in action.
A natural rock formation with a hole that allows waves to crash through offers spectacular views and a unique backdrop for photography.
The river offers panoramic views of the lush landscapes and is perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the region.
A popular spot for locals and tourists, providing breathtaking views of the sunsets over the Indian Ocean, ideal for capturing vibrant colors and silhouettes.
Food in Port Saint John’s
Port Saint John’s Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Sample this dish at Sunrise Chip 'n Ranch or the Zest Cafe.
Must-Try!
A savory-sweet spiced mince dish with an egg custard topping, often served with yellow rice. Look for it at the Port St Johns Hotel or the Ocean View Hotel restaurant.
Experience the South African tradition of a braai, featuring a variety of grilled meats and sausages. You can enjoy a braai at the Umzimvubu Retreat or the Spotted Grunter Resort.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the farmers' market to sample a range of fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local food scene and interact with vendors and artisans.
Explore the beachfront area for a wide selection of street food stalls offering delicious seafood, grilled meats, and traditional snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of the local cuisine in this laid-back setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In South African culture, particularly in the Port Saint John's area, there is a strong emphasis on respecting elders. It is customary to greet older individuals first and to show deference to their opinions and knowledge.
Proper greetings are important in Port Saint John’s. A handshake is common, and it’s polite to greet everyone in a group. Use titles like 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' unless invited to use first names. In some cultures, a hug or cheek kiss may also be customary among friends.
Dressing modestly is valued in many communities around Port Saint John's. Beach attire should be reserved for the beach. When visiting homes or attending local events, opt for smart casual attire as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Port Saint John’s
Ensure a smooth experience
In Port Saint John's, South Africa, tipping is customary in the service industry. It is generally expected to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes. For other services like taxis and hotels, rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is appreciated. Tipping is seen as a way to show gratitude for good service.
Payment practices in Port Saint John's vary. Most establishments accept cash and major credit cards. However, smaller vendors and some local markets may prefer cash transactions. It is advisable to have local currency on hand for smaller purchases. Mobile payment options are becoming more popular, but may not be widely accepted everywhere.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Port Saint John’s is warm and ideal for beach activities, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. Expect sunny days and occasional rain. This is the peak tourist season, perfect for swimming, surfing, and enjoying the vibrant local festivals.
Autumn experiences milder temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This is a great time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area, as the landscape changes with the season. The crowds diminish, making it a more peaceful visit.
Winter is cooler, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. While it's not ideal for beach activities, the area offers stunning natural scenery and opportunities for whale watching. Expect more rainfall, but also fewer tourists, making it a serene time to explore.
Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is a great time for outdoor activities like bird watching and hiking, with less rain than winter. The weather is gradually warming up, making it suitable for early beach days.
Port Saint John’s at Night
Hiking in Port Saint John’s
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that follows the Mzimvubu River, offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
A rugged trail that showcases the stunning cliffs and coastal views of the Wild Coast region, ideal for adventurous hikers.
A reserve with well-marked hiking trails through coastal forests and wetlands, providing a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
Features multiple hiking paths with access to pristine beaches and diverse wildlife in a tranquil setting.
A challenging trail along the coast that offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and the chance to explore hidden beaches.
Aiports
How to reach Port Saint John’s by plane.
The primary airport serving the city of Port Saint John's, located approximately 70 km away.
Located about 130 km from Port Saint John's, this airport serves domestic and a few international flights.
Approximately 300 km from Port Saint John's, offering domestic flights with connections to major cities.
Located around 600 km away in Durban, this is one of the largest airports in South Africa with extensive international services.
About 200 km from Port Saint John's, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Port Saint John’s, comprising a significant majority of the population.
A demographic group with mixed ancestry, representing a smaller yet notable portion of the population.
This group consists of individuals primarily of European descent, historically part of the region's demographics.
A minority demographic group in Port Saint John’s, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Port Saint John's, enjoyed by many locals of all ages, with several amateur clubs and youth leagues.
Rugby is a prominent sport in the region, with a strong following and local teams competing in various leagues.
Cricket is widely played and followed, with recreational and competitive matches taking place throughout the year.
Netball is particularly popular among women and girls, with schools and local teams actively participating in matches.
Athletics is enjoyed by many, with events and competitions held for different age groups, promoting fitness and health.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a popular recreational activity in Port Saint John's, attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Saint John’s.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Port Saint John’s offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with The Little Green Bean being a particularly standout choice for those seeking plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at establishments like The Jetty Restaurant, which provides a selection of gluten-free dishes amidst its diverse offerings.