Summerstrand
,Summerstrand is a vibrant coastal suburb located in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and warm waters, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The area is also home to several upscale hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, providing visitors with a range of amenities and entertainment options.
With its relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views, Summerstrand offers a perfect setting for a relaxing beach holiday.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Beach Day
morning
:Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Summerstrand beach. Enjoy the fresh ocean air and collect some seashells.
afternoon
:Relax on the beach while soaking up the sun or take a dip in the ocean. Grab lunch at a nearby beachside café offering fresh seafood.
evening
:Wind down your day with a beachfront sunset. Enjoy dinner at a popular grill, savoring local dishes.
Arts and Culture
morning
:Visit the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum to explore local art and history. Engage with the exhibits and learn about the region's culture.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Donkin Reserve, where you can appreciate unique sculptures and take in panoramic views. It's a great spot for a picnic lunch.
evening
:Attend a local cultural performance or concert in the area. Sample traditional cuisine at a nearby restaurant afterward.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful beaches and scenic views along the coastline.
- Mild climate with warm summers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage and access to local attractions such as museums and historical sites.
- Proximity to universities and educational institutions attracts students and professionals.
- Variety of recreational activities available, including water sports, hiking, and dining.
Bad
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions in South Africa.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded beaches and limited parking during peak times.
- Certain areas may experience safety concerns related to crime.
- Limited public transportation options may require reliance on private vehicles.
- Occasional severe weather events, such as storms, can disrupt daily life.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Volleyball
Join a game of beach volleyball at the beautiful Summerstrand beaches, where you can enjoy the sun and sea while getting some exercise.
Surfing
Summerstrand offers great waves for surfing. Rentals and lessons are available for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Walking and Biking Trails
Explore scenic walking and biking trails along the beachfront that offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Bird Watching at the Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Visit the nearby Cape Recife Nature Reserve to observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat, along with beautiful coastal scenery.
Dolphin Spotting Tours
Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and other marine life along the coast, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience.
Kiteboarding
Experience the thrill of kiteboarding at Summerstrand, where conditions are ideal for both learning and advanced riding.
Picnicking in Pollok Beach
Enjoy a family-friendly picnic at Pollok Beach, equipped with grills and ample space for outdoor games and relaxation.
Scuba Diving
Explore the underwater beauty of the Indian Ocean through scuba diving excursions that cater to all skill levels.
Fishing
Try your hand at fishing off the coast or from nearby piers, with various species available in the waters of Summerstrand.
Relaxing on the Beach
Simply relax on the sandy shores of Summerstrand's beaches, soaking up the sun, swimming, or enjoying water sports.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Summerstrand with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Summerstrand Beach
A beautiful stretch of golden sand with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Offers panoramic views of the coastline, along with opportunities to capture wildlife and pristine landscapes.
NMMU Bird Sanctuary
A peaceful spot with lush greenery and a variety of bird species, ideal for nature photography.
Shark Rock Pier
Provides a unique perspective of the ocean and beach, making it a great spot for capturing the local fishing culture and scenic coastal views.
Dolphin's Leap
A viewpoint along the coast where you can often spot dolphins playing in the surf, providing fantastic photo opportunities.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bunny Chow
A popular South African dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Must-try at O'ways Teacafe.
Must-Try!
Bobotie
A flavorful dish with spiced minced meat topped with an egg custard. Recommended at Something Good Roadhouse.
Braai
A beloved South African barbecue tradition featuring a variety of grilled meats and sausages. Best experienced at The Beer Yard.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Summerstrand better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Goodnight Market
A monthly evening market offering a wide array of street food, artisanal products, and live entertainment.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Local Customs
Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions, including greetings and gestures. For example, a polite handshake is common, and using greetings in the local language, Afrikaans or Xhosa, can be appreciated.
Dress Appropriately
Summerstrand is a beach area, but modesty is still valued, especially in public places and when visiting local communities. Swimwear is acceptable on the beach, but covering up with appropriate clothing when leaving the beach is respectful.
Practice Politeness
South Africans value politeness and friendliness. Use 'please' and 'thank you' regularly, and engage in friendly small talk. Being approachable and respectful in conversations can help foster positive interactions.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Summerstrand, South Africa, tipping is generally appreciated and follows a customary practice where tipping between 10% to 15% of the bill is common in restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping can also extend to taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides, with small amounts being acceptable. It's seen as a way to show appreciation for good service.
Payment
Payment methods in Summerstrand include cash, credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most establishments, such as restaurants and shops, accept major credit cards. However, some smaller businesses may prefer cash. It's advisable to have some local currency for small purchases or in case of emergencies, as not all places may have card facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer
Summer (December to February) in Summerstrand is warm and humid, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It's the peak tourist season due to the beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Expect sunny days and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
Autumn
Autumn (March to May) brings milder temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather is generally pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the local attractions. The summer crowds begin to thin out.
Winter
Winter (June to August) in Summerstrand is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). While it is cooler, it remains a good time to visit for those who prefer fewer tourists. Expect some chilly evenings, and occasional rain, but many sunny days.
Spring
Spring (September to November) features warmer temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather is usually sunny, and it's a great time for whale watching and enjoying the blooming landscape. Tourist numbers begin to rise again as the season progresses.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dolphin Trail
A beautiful coastal trail offering stunning views and diverse wildlife, spanning along the Tsitsikamma National Park.
Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Features a variety of walking trails that lead through coastal vegetation and offer opportunities for birdwatching and whale spotting.
Shark River Mouth Hiking Trail
A scenic trail that winds through the wetlands, showcasing rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Van Staden's River Mouth Nature Reserve
A picturesque hike through lush forests with views of the river mouth, enjoys a serene atmosphere and abundant wildlife.
Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve
A World Heritage site that provides numerous hiking trails through dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Summerstrand by plane.
Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ)
The closest airport to Summerstrand, located approximately 5 km away from the suburb.
Cape Town International Airport (CPT)
The main airport serving Cape Town, located about 760 km from Summerstrand.
King Shaka International Airport (DUR)
Located in Durban, it is approximately 900 km from Summerstrand.
East London Airport (ELS)
Located in East London, about 280 km from Summerstrand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White South Africans
The predominant demographic group in Summerstrand, often associated with affluence and high levels of education.
Coloured South Africans
A significant demographic group in the area, representing a mix of various cultural backgrounds.
Black South Africans
This group includes various ethnicities and cultures, contributing to the diversity of the community.
Indian South Africans
Although a smaller demographic group, Indian South Africans contribute to the cultural mosaic of Summerstrand.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Surfing
With its beautiful beaches and consistent waves, Summerstrand is popular for both amateur and professional surfing.
Beach Volleyball
The sandy beaches of Summerstrand provide an ideal setting for beach volleyball, attracting players and spectators alike.
Swimming
The warm waters of the Indian Ocean make swimming a favored activity among locals and tourists in Summerstrand.
Running and Walking
Many people enjoy running and walking along the beachfront promenade, which offers scenic views and a healthy lifestyle.
Cycling
Cycling along the beachfront trails is popular, offering a great way to explore the area.
Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular due to the favorable water conditions in Summerstrand.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many local eateries offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as Buddha bowls and plant-based burgers. Notable options include Ginger The Restaurant and Something Good Roadhouse.
Gluten-Free Choices
Several restaurants in Summerstrand are accommodating to gluten-free diets, providing options like seafood platters, grilled meats, and fresh salads. It's advisable to check directly with the restaurants for specific gluten-free options.