Port St. Johns

Port St. Johns is called the capital of the Wild Coast, where the Umzimvubu River flows into the Indian Ocean. Sandstone rocks flaunt on either side of the river mouth. These rocks are called Mount Thesiger (342 meters) and Mount Sullivan (304 meters) after two British army officers. In most villages on the Wild Coast (or Transkei) there is not much more to be found than the beautiful unspoilt nature, a number of cows and the small houses of the local Xhosa tribe. However, Port St. Johns also has accommodation for tourists, a golf course, shops and eateries, so it is ideal for a stay during your holiday in this part of South Africa. This soothing coastal town surrounded by green forests is located 220 kilometers north-east of East London.

Port St. Johns has three beaches: First, Second and Third (1st, 2nd and 3rd), no imaginative names, but very beautiful! First Beach is located at the mouth of the Umzimvubu river and is great for walking, sunbathing or having a picnic, swimming is definitely not recommended here as sharks are regularly seen. Who does want to swim in the wonderful warm water of the Indian Ocean can go to Second Beach, here are (in season) lifeguards present. Third beach is only accessible when you have a permit, it is a rocky ‘beach’.

In addition to the beaches for relaxing, this region also offers more than enough opportunities if you want to do something active: surfing, mountain biking, horse riding, quat biking or hiking along the coast or through the forests are possible. There are walking routes through the beautiful green forests of the Silaka Nature Reserve that lies on the south side of Port St. Johns, here you can spot many beautiful birds such as the Knysna Loerie and kingfishers.

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