10 Bucket-List Destinations near East London, South Africa
East London, situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, is a city known for its laid-back feel, lovely beaches, and sunny weather. While the city has its own unique charm, sometimes a change of scenery is just what you need for a rejuvenating weekend escape. East London’s prime location on the edge of the Wild Coast makes it a great base for weekend trips to beautiful beach towns and their surrounds. The city is also conveniently close to some fantastic and affordable wildlife reserves and forested regions. So, whether you’re a beach bum or a bush baby, you’ll find something near East London to enjoy. Picking only a few was tough because there are so many great options, but here’s my list of 10 bucket-list destinations near East London
1. Areena Riverside Resort
Distance from East London: Approximately 20 kilometers (25 minutes)
So, what makes Areena the perfect weekend destination near East London? First, Areena Resort’s location just 25 minutes from the City center makes it convenient to get to. The resort offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets, from camping sites to riverside chalets. There’s also a large swimming pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer’s day. If you’re looking for a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities, then Areena Resort has that too. From ziplining to hiking, quad biking, river cruises and team building obstacle courses, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Additionally, the on-site restaurant is a convenient option for those times when you just don’t feel like cooking. Then there’s the Spa – If you’re in the mood for a bit of luxury, the Areena Spa and Wellness Center has a great selection of treatments to choose from.
Special Experiences
Above all, one of the highlights for any traveler to Areena is the chance to interact with Abby, Areena’s 16-year-old giraffe. This unique experience allows you to get up close and personal with this beautiful, hand-reared giraffe, who loves giving big wet kisses! While it’s best to book an encounter with Abby to ensure you get to meet him, you might also spot Abby wandering around the Reserve or even see him following you on one of the hiking trails. By the way – giraffes are not the only wildlife at Areena. The reserve is home to blue wildebeest, impala, Nyala, zebra, giraffe, ostrich, and waterbuck to name a few.
Book your stay at Areena Resort here >>>
Read more about Areena Resort by clicking on the links below:
- Hiking at Areena: Special memories with a giraffe
- 5 Activities at Areena Resort you will love
- Our weekend stay and ziplining fun at Areena Resort
2. Chintsa
Distance from East London: Approximately 38 kilometers (30 minutes)
Chintsa, situated on the Wild Coast, is an ideal beach destination near East London with long sandy stretches and warm, safe waters perfect for swimming. The village has a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for unwinding. For those seeking activities beyond beach lounging, Chintsa is popular for surfing and hiking too, and has some lovely places like Hey Clay, a creative pottery studio in Chintsa East. Restaurant options include Jolly Roger, the Village Bistro, and Just Fired. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses and resorts to self-catering cottages, with Purple Haze Eco Lodge being my personal favourite, affordable choice in a convenient location for exploring the area.
3. Haga-Haga
Distance from East London: Approximately 65 kilometers (1 hour)
Haga-Haga is an idyllic coastal village that is the epitome of the Wild Coast. Haga Haga and its neighboring areas have been designated as a nature and marine conservancy, preserving the region’s rich diversity of indigenous plants and wildlife. Activities include swimming, surfing, fishing, hiking, bird watching and beach walks. This laid-back village is all about relaxation and quiet. It also boasts the most magnificent sunrises and sunsets, so be sure to not miss those!
Where to stay in Haga-Haga
When it comes to places to stay, there are some lovely beach front rentals and the well-known Haga-Haga Hotel. For a really beautiful farm stay, I highly recommend Oppieplaaas Country Estate. The owners are fantastic, the accommodation is stunning and they have an on-site restaurant serving up the most delicious food!
Read more about Haga-Haga by clicking on the links below:
4. Morgan Bay
Distance from East London: Approximately 80 kilometers (1 hour)
Morgan Bay, nestled on the edge of the Wild Coast, is a tranquil coastal village celebrated for its beautiful beaches and unspoiled nature. Outdoor activities include leisurely beach days, surfing, fishing, horse riding, abseiling and hiking. For a full list of activities in Morgan Bay, click here.
A trip to Morgan Bay wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the iconic Morgan Bay Cliffs. The Cliffs are a great place to enjoy magnificent ocean views, sunset picnics, photography, dolphin/whale watching and hiking.
Where to eat and stay in Morgan Bay
There’s a couple of really lovely restaurants around town like Salty and Bayview Farm. However, one of my top recommendations remains the Deck Restaurant and Bar, with fantastic views over the beachfront. When it comes to accommodation choices, Morgan Bay has some really amazing places to stay, with something to suit every budget. However, two of the most well-known hotels in the area are the Morgan Bay Hotel and Mitford Lodge.
Read more about Morgan Bay by clicking on the links below:
- Morgan Bay: Discover the best things to do
- Hiking the Morgan Bay Cliffs to Double Mouth Nature Reserve
- Morgan Bay Cliffs: Everything you need to know
5. Kei Mouth
Distance from East London: Approximately 80 kilometers (1 hour)
Kei Mouth is an off-the-beaten-path coastal village located at the mouth of the Kei River. With cows often lazying around on the roads or strolling along the beach, there’s certainly an element of adventure during a visit to Kei Mouth. One of the unique features of Kei Mouth is the famous Pont, a pontoon facilitating the crossing of vehicles and people over the river. It also serves as an easy gateway to the ‘true’ Wild Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline in South Africa. Kei Mouth’s coastal location puts them in a perfect position for swimming, sunbathing, and beach walks. Adventure seekers can take on thrilling water sports such as canoeing, fishing, and boating along the Kei River. Hiking is another great way to explore the area with fantastic views of the coastline providing a backdrop to most of the trails. For a full list of things to do in Kei Mouth, click here.
Where to eat and stay in Kei mouth
For places to eat, an all-time favourite in Kei Mouth is the Oyster Catcher. This small deli serves up light lunches and home-made meals to satisfy every craving. The deli is small, with limited seating but what they lack in size they sure make up for in flavour and experience. Other notable restaurants in Kei Mouth are the Yardarm Bistro & Bar, Kei Mouth Country Club and the Shed at Benmore Lodge. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses and resorts to self-catering cottages. I have personally stayed at Nautical Beach Cottage and thought it was absolutely beautiful! The self-catering cottage sleeps 4 and is situated about a 5 minute drive from the beach and other attractions in Kei Mouth.
Find out more about our personal experiences in Kei Mouth by clicking the links below:
- Kei Mouth: Discover the best things to do
- Kei Mouth Self-catering accommodation: Nautical Beach Cottage
6. Matola Game Reserve
Distance from East London: Approximately 81 kilometers (1 hour)
Located in the serene Kambusi Valley near Komga, Matola Private Game Reserve lies just an easy 1-hour drive (~83km) from East London. The beautiful landscape of grasslands, mountains, and rivers creates an ideal backdrop for relaxation and fantastic animal sightings. I was so amazed by the amount of animals here that we saw during our visit. The herds of antelope racing across the plains were a phenomenal site! Besides enjoying the views and wildlife, you can enjoy hiking, bird watching, mountain biking, wildlife drives, and picnics. Accommodation options cater to both couples and large groups, featuring lodgings with breathtaking views of the reserve’s natural beauty. Guests can choose between self-catering or fully catered options for food.
Find out more about our personal experience at Matola Game Reserve by clicking the link below:
7. Double Drift Nature Reserve (Great Fish River)
Distance from East London: Approximately 155 kilometers (2.5 hours)
Double Drift Nature Reserve Double Drift Nature Reserve is a 23000 ha area of dense, pristine valley bushveld brimming with wildlife. What I love about Double Drift is that it still remains a relatively secret spot in the province. This means that when you visit here, the chances are you may often be the only person for miles and have the entire space to yourself. Joined by an experienced guide, you can also enjoy hiking trails across the reserve where you have the chance to encounter wildlife such as hippo, rhino and buffalo on foot. Beyond its natural beauty, though, the reserve holds a rich history with several forts showcasing frontier conflicts between the Xhosa and British settlers. There are also ancient sites within the reserve where you can see original San rock art. (How cool is that?!).
Find out more about our personal experience at Double Drift Nature Reserve by clicking the link below:
8. Port Alfred
Distance from East London: Approximately 155 kilometers (1.5 hours)
Port Alfred is a popular holiday destination, with its laid back vibes and coastal beauty. Lying between the Kowie River and the warm Indian Ocean, Port Alfred has beautiful beaches and pretty estuaries. Its prime location along the coast means your days can be spent swimming, surfing, and boating. The town’s maritime heritage is evident in its historic wharf and harbor, adding a touch of nostalgia. Beyond the beaches, though, Port Alfred offers a range of attractions such as scenic nature reserves, golf courses, and quaint shops to explore.
READ MORE >>> Best Things to do in Port Alfred
9. Bathurst
Distance from East London: Approximately 165 kilometers (2 hours)
Bathurst is a delightful small town located in the Eastern Cape, exuding a captivating blend of history and charm. Known for being the oldest settler village in the region, Bathurst boasts a rich heritage showcased in its well-preserved historical buildings and landmarks. The most famous of these is the Big Pineapple, an iconic 16.7-meter tall structure that stands as a testament to the town’s agricultural roots. Bathurst is also home to the world’s longest continuously licenced pub, the Pig & Whistle. Bathurst’s quaint streets are lined with craft shops, galleries, and cozy cafes, making it a perfect destination for leisurely strolls and exploration.
Where to stay in Bathurst
The historic Pig and Whistle is a budget-friendly and convenient place to stay in Bathurst. With an on-site restaurant and prime location on the corner of main street, you won’t go wrong with this choice.
- Book your stay at the Pig and Whistle here.
READ MORE >>> 8 Reasons to visit Bathurst in the Eastern Cape
10. Hogsback
Distance from East London: Approximately 155 kilometers (2 hours)
Hogsback, a pretty little village nestled in the Amathole Mountains, is a fairytale-like destination renowned for its enchanting landscapes and ethereal vibe. You can hike to beautiful waterfalls, enjoy stunning views or find peace in the forested landscape. Stay at the whimsical Away with the Fairies Nature Lodge, where you can visit the famous ‘bath on the edge’. The accommodation options are almost all stunning, set against the backdrop of mountains with cozy wood fireplaces. Once you visit Hogsback, you will definitely fall in love with the magic here!
READ MORE >>> Hogsback: The best things to do in this Fairytale Destination
With these diverse options, East London serves as an ideal starting point for unforgettable weekend adventures. Whether you’re into history, beaches or wildlife, there’s a place for you to recharge, explore, and create lasting memories just a short drive away from the city.
Discover more things to do in and around East London
- Why East London is South Africa’s most underrated Coastal Gem
- 21 Things to do in East London
- 10 Restaurants in East London you Must Try: A food lovers guide
- 10 Best Weekend Getaways near East London, South Africa
- Ideas for things to do near East London
- The Retreats: A tranquil Farm Stay near East London
- Easy-to-reach Places along the Wild Coast, incl. Jikeleza Route
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