If you are searching for the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth, you are about to explore one of South Africa’s most vibrant coastal cities. Known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife experiences, and relaxed atmosphere, Port Elizabeth combines urban comfort with natural adventure. Situated along the Eastern Cape coastline, the city offers sunshine, ocean views, and easy access to game reserves.
The Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth range from marine encounters and historic landmarks to scenic drives and family-friendly attractions. Whether you are visiting for a short holiday or including the city as part of a larger South African journey, there is plenty to explore.
This complete guide highlights the Top 20 Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth, with helpful planning tips and detailed insights to help you make the most of your trip.
Why Visit Port Elizabeth?
The Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth reflect its reputation as the Friendly City. The climate is mild, the beaches are accessible, and the wildlife experiences are close to town.
Reasons to visit include:
- Long sandy beaches
- Big Five safari access nearby
- Marine wildlife encounters
- Historic sites and museums
- Relaxed coastal lifestyle
The Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth combine city convenience with outdoor exploration.
1. Relax at Hobie Beach
Hobie Beach is one of the most popular highlights among the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located along the main beachfront, it offers soft sand and safe swimming areas.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Beach volleyball
- Surfing
- Scenic walks along the promenade
The lively atmosphere makes it ideal for families and groups.
2. Visit Addo Elephant National Park
A visit to Addo Elephant National Park is one of the most unforgettable Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located roughly an hour’s drive from the city, this renowned reserve is home to one of the largest elephant populations in South Africa. The park forms part of a greater conservation area that stretches from the Karoo to the coast, offering diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Self-drive safaris along well-marked routes
- Guided game drives led by experienced rangers
- Close-up elephant sightings at waterholes
- Wildlife photography in natural habitats
- Birdwatching with hundreds of recorded species
Beyond elephants, the park also protects lions, buffalo, rhino, and leopards, making it one of the most accessible Big Five experiences near a major city. Including Addo in your itinerary elevates the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth by adding an authentic safari adventure filled with unforgettable encounters.
3. Explore Bayworld
Exploring Bayworld adds educational depth to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located near the beachfront, this family-friendly attraction combines a museum and oceanarium that showcase marine life, local heritage, and natural history.
Inside Bayworld, visitors can experience:
- Marine animal exhibits
- Historical displays related to the Eastern Cape
- Cultural artefacts and fossil collections
- Educational presentations
- Interactive exhibits suitable for children
The oceanarium section introduces visitors to marine species found along the South African coastline, offering insight into the region’s underwater world. Including Bayworld in your plans balances outdoor adventures with cultural exploration, making it a meaningful addition to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
4. Walk the Donkin Heritage Trail
Walking the Donkin Heritage Trail is one of the most culturally enriching Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. This self-guided trail winds through the city’s historic centre, connecting significant landmarks, old buildings, and scenic viewpoints. It provides insight into Port Elizabeth’s colonial past while offering sweeping views over Algoa Bay.
Highlights along the trail include:
- The Donkin Reserve and lighthouse
- Historic Victorian-era buildings
- Informative plaques detailing local history
- Elevated viewpoints overlooking the harbour
- Public art installations along Route 67
The walk is manageable at a relaxed pace and allows visitors to appreciate the city’s architectural character. Including the Donkin Heritage Trail in your itinerary adds historical context to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
5. Visit Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Cape Recife Nature Reserve is one of the most scenic Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located at the southern tip of the city, this protected coastal area features wild beaches, rocky shores, and a historic lighthouse.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Coastal walking trails
- Birdwatching in natural habitats
- Visiting the Cape Recife Lighthouse
- Exploring tidal pools
- Quiet picnic spots
The reserve offers a more rugged and untouched experience compared to the main city beaches. Including Cape Recife in your plans highlights the natural beauty that defines many of the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
6. Explore The Boardwalk
Exploring The Boardwalk adds modern entertainment to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located along the beachfront, this complex combines shopping, dining, and leisure activities in one lively setting.
Visitors can enjoy:
- A variety of restaurants
- Cinema entertainment
- Casual cafés
- Gaming facilities
- Evening waterfront strolls
The Boardwalk is particularly appealing for evening outings, offering a safe and vibrant atmosphere. Including it in your itinerary provides a balance between outdoor adventure and urban comfort among the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
7. Go Dolphin and Whale Watching
Marine wildlife encounters are among the most exciting Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. The waters of Algoa Bay are home to dolphins throughout the year and whales during migration season. Guided boat tours provide safe and informative opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
During a marine tour, visitors may experience:
- Pods of dolphins swimming alongside the boat
- Seasonal sightings of humpback or southern right whales
- Seabird colonies on nearby islands
- Ocean photography opportunities
- Informative commentary from local guides
The experience combines adventure with education. Watching dolphins leap across the water or spotting a whale in the distance creates lasting memories and adds a unique coastal dimension to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
8. Visit Kragga Kamma Game Park
Kragga Kamma Game Park is a fantastic wildlife option close to the city and one of the most accessible Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Unlike larger reserves, this park allows visitors to see animals roaming freely in a natural environment while remaining within easy reach of urban accommodation.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Self-drive wildlife viewing
- Close encounters with giraffes and zebras
- Rhino and buffalo sightings
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Guided tours for deeper insight
The park’s manageable size increases the likelihood of spotting animals during a short visit. Including Kragga Kamma in your itinerary brings safari excitement directly into the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
9. Enjoy Sardinia Bay
Sardinia Bay is one of the most scenic and unspoiled Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located within a protected coastal area, this beach is known for its wide stretch of sand, rolling waves, and natural dunes. It offers a quieter alternative to the city’s more developed beaches.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Long beach walks
- Surfing and bodyboarding
- Picnicking near the dunes
- Wildlife spotting in surrounding vegetation
- Stunning sunset views
Sardinia Bay’s raw coastal beauty provides a sense of freedom and space. Spending time here highlights the natural charm that makes the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth so appealing to outdoor lovers.
10. Explore St George's Park
Exploring St George’s Park is one of the most relaxing Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. As one of the oldest parks in South Africa, it offers beautifully maintained gardens, shaded walking paths, and open lawns perfect for a quiet afternoon. The park is also home to the historic St George’s Park Cricket Ground, a venue that has hosted international matches for decades.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Peaceful garden strolls
- Picnics on open grass areas
- Visiting the cricket stadium
- Outdoor relaxation under large trees
- Photography of historic surroundings
The combination of greenery and sporting heritage makes St George’s Park a balanced addition to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
11. Visit Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum adds cultural depth to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located near St George’s Park, the museum houses a diverse collection of South African art, with a strong focus on works from the Eastern Cape.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore:
- Contemporary and traditional South African art
- Rotating exhibitions
- Cultural displays reflecting regional heritage
- Sculptures and paintings
- Educational programmes and events
A visit here provides a thoughtful contrast to outdoor adventures. Including this museum in your itinerary enhances the artistic and historical side of the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
12. Take a Sunset Cruise
Taking a sunset cruise is one of the most memorable Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. As the sun dips below the horizon, the harbour and surrounding coastline glow in warm colours, creating a calm and scenic setting.
A typical harbour cruise may include:
- Views of the Port Elizabeth skyline
- Coastal rock formations
- Marine bird sightings
- Relaxed onboard atmosphere
- Stunning sunset photography
The gentle movement of the boat combined with evening light makes this experience especially peaceful. Ending your day with a sunset cruise adds a romantic and scenic highlight to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
13. Visit Settlers Park Nature Reserve
Visiting Settlers Park Nature Reserve is one of the most peaceful Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located close to the city centre, this green oasis provides walking trails, indigenous vegetation, and quiet spaces that feel far removed from urban life. The reserve forms part of the Baakens River Valley and supports a wide range of bird species.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Hiking along shaded paths
- Birdwatching in natural habitats
- Scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley
- Educational information about local flora
- Quiet picnic spots
The reserve’s calm atmosphere makes it ideal for morning walks or relaxed afternoons. Including Settlers Park in your itinerary adds a refreshing natural balance to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
14. Try Sandboarding or Surfing
Adventure seekers will find excitement among the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth through sandboarding and surfing. The surrounding coastline and dunes provide ideal conditions for these outdoor activities.
Options include:
- Sandboarding on coastal dunes
- Surfing along popular beaches
- Bodyboarding in moderate waves
- Beginner surf lessons
- Beachside equipment rentals
The Eastern Cape coastline is known for consistent swells, making it suitable for both new and experienced surfers. Combining ocean adventure with sandy landscapes adds energy and variety to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
15. Enjoy Local Seafood
Tasting fresh seafood is an essential part of the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. As a coastal city, Port Elizabeth offers a range of restaurants serving locally sourced fish and shellfish prepared in traditional and modern styles.
Popular seafood choices include:
- Grilled line fish
- Calamari and prawns
- Fish and chips
- Mussels in creamy sauces
- Seasonal seafood platters
Dining near the waterfront enhances the experience, allowing you to enjoy ocean views while sampling regional flavours. Including seafood dining in your plans connects you directly to the maritime culture behind the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
16. Explore Route 67
Exploring Route 67 is one of the most culturally meaningful Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. This public art and heritage trail features 67 artworks that honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela and celebrate the city’s journey through history. The route winds through the Donkin Reserve area and connects murals, sculptures, and historical landmarks.
Highlights of Route 67 include:
- Large-scale mosaic artworks
- Sculptures representing freedom and unity
- Informative plaques detailing local history
- Elevated viewpoints overlooking the harbour
- Creative public art installations
Walking this route offers both visual impact and historical reflection. Including Route 67 in your plans adds depth and perspective to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
17. Visit Red Location Museum
The Red Location Museum provides powerful historical insight and is one of the more thought-provoking Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located in New Brighton, the museum focuses on the struggle against apartheid and the stories of communities who lived through this period.
Visitors can explore:
- Exhibits detailing the anti-apartheid movement
- Personal testimonies and photographs
- Cultural artefacts
- Architectural design inspired by shipping containers
- Educational displays about social change
A visit here encourages reflection and deeper awareness of South Africa’s history. Including the Red Location Museum broadens your perspective while exploring the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth.
18. Take a Day Trip to Jeffreys Bay
Jeffreys Bay, located about an hour from Port Elizabeth, is one of the world’s most recognised surfing destinations. Adding this coastal town to your itinerary enhances the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth with additional ocean adventure.
While in Jeffreys Bay, visitors can enjoy:
- World-class surfing waves
- Long sandy beaches
- Beachfront cafés
- Shell collecting along the shore
- Relaxed seaside atmosphere
Even if you are not a surfer, the town’s coastal charm and open beaches make it worth the short drive. Combining Jeffreys Bay with the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth creates a well-rounded coastal experience filled with sun, sea, and adventure.
19. Visit Tsitsikamma National Park
A visit to Tsitsikamma National Park adds dramatic natural beauty to the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth. Located along the famous Garden Route, this coastal reserve is known for its rugged cliffs, indigenous forests, suspension bridges, and powerful ocean views. It offers a striking contrast to the city’s beaches and urban attractions.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Walking the Storms River suspension bridge
- Hiking scenic coastal trails
- Exploring forest paths
- Whale watching during migration season
- Photographing dramatic rock formations
The combination of dense forest and crashing waves creates unforgettable scenery. Including Tsitsikamma National Park in your travel plans expands the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth with adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
20. Relax and Embrace the Coastal Lifestyle
Among all the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth, one of the most rewarding experiences is simply slowing down. The city’s relaxed pace, mild climate, and oceanfront setting make it easy to unwind and enjoy simple pleasures.
Ways to embrace the coastal lifestyle include:
- Walking along the beachfront promenade
- Watching waves roll onto the shore
- Enjoying coffee at a seaside café
- Sitting quietly at sunset
- Listening to seabirds overhead
The Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth are not only about activity. They are also about atmosphere. Taking time to breathe in the sea air and appreciate the calm surroundings often becomes the most meaningful part of the journey.
Quick Planning Table
| Activity | Best Season | Family Friendly | Cost Level | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobie Beach | Summer | Yes | Free | Half day |
| Addo Elephant Park | All year | Yes | Park fee | Full day |
| Bayworld | All year | Yes | Moderate | 2 hours |
| Cape Recife | Spring | Yes | Free | 2 hours |
| Kragga Kamma | All year | Yes | Moderate | Half day |
Suggested One Day Itinerary
Morning:
- Visit Addo Elephant National Park
Afternoon:
- Lunch at beachfront restaurant
- Walk along Hobie Beach
Evening:
- Sunset cruise
- Dinner at waterfront
Must Read:
Final Thoughts:
The Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth showcase a destination that blends wildlife adventure with relaxed coastal living. From safari experiences in Addo Elephant National Park to long sandy beaches and cultural landmarks, the city offers variety without overwhelming crowds.
Port Elizabeth is ideal for travellers seeking nature, history, and ocean views in one accessible location. Whether you prefer marine life encounters, heritage trails, or simply relaxing by the sea, the Best Things to Do in Port Elizabeth provide a rewarding South African experience filled with warmth, beauty, and adventure.
