Jeffreys Bay, renowned as a delightful holiday and retirement destination, has grown to encompass the charming areas of Aston Bay, Kabeljous-on-Sea, and Paradise Beach. Situated 80km west of Port Elizabeth, this idyllic town stretches from Cape Recife to Cape St Francis, nestled between the Gamtoos and Kromme Rivers, and bordered by the estuaries of the Kabeljous and Seekoei Rivers. Known for its stunning coastline and tranquil environment, Jeffreys Bay is a perfect blend of natural beauty and serene living. Check out our list of 10 Best Places to visit In Jeffreys Bay.
The climate in Jeffreys Bay offers year-round appeal, with moderate temperatures and scattered rainfall. Warm summers with comfortable humidity levels and mild winters make it an ideal spot for various activities, including water sports, which are enjoyed throughout the year. Whether basking in the summer warmth or enjoying the mild winter days, Jeffreys Bay provides a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit.
1. Paradise Beach
Source: Facebook / @Gerd Kellner
Paradise Beach, a serene suburb of Jeffreys Bay located in the Sarah Baartman District Municipality is a hidden gem about 80 kilometres west of Port Elizabeth.
This breathtaking locale offers 15 kilometers of pristine sand and solitude, where dolphins play in the surf, and the sand quality rivals that of the world’s top five beaches. Its sheer magnificence makes it undeniably one of the best beaches globally.
Nestled midway between the renowned surfing haven of Jeffrey’s Bay and the charming holiday town of Cape St Francis, Paradise Beach is aptly named, offering a slice of coastal heaven.
Also read: Boulders Beach and Jeffreys Bay among the top 20 most beautiful beaches in the world
2. Sandboarding Jeffreys Bay with Wacky Wipeouts
The beaches of Jeffreys Bay, renowned for their unparalleled beauty, also boast some of the most exhilarating and spectacular dunes in South Africa, offering a haven for sandboarding enthusiasts.
This thrilling activity, akin to snowboarding, is known for its speed, fun, and ease of learning, appealing to adventurers of all skill levels. Whether you choose to stand or sit on the boards, the experience is equally thrilling, with daily trips available, weather permitting. These sandboarding adventures, unsuitable on wet dunes, are perfect for all ages, and even spectators are welcome to join and soak in the excitement.
Sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay is an experience not to be missed. Your adventure begins at the Wacky Wipeouts Sandboarding Shack located at the Marina Martinique Beach Parking area.
Here, a guide will meet you and lead you on a short walk to the dunes. Once you’ve reached this sandy playground, the guide will demonstrate the basics, setting you up for a day of exhilarating rides across any of the three dunes available.
As for preparation, simply dress in normal beach attire, and consider bringing a pair of socks for comfort on hot summer days when the sand heats up. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a bottle of water to stay protected and hydrated during your sandboarding adventure under the warm African sun.
3. Aston Bay Beach
Picture: Facebook / @Tahsan Jony
Aston Bay Beach, a hidden gem nestled on the Indian Ocean, ranks as the 7th best out of 73 beaches in the Eastern Cape region. Situated in an urban area, this beach offers a spacious coastline with crystal turquoise waters and pure, fine sand that makes special shoes unnecessary.
The gentle slope into the water is ideal for swimmers of all levels. Aston Bay Beach, despite its beauty, remains a tranquil and almost deserted haven even during the high season, making it perfect for various visitors, from solitary wanderers to those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Free and open to all, Aston Bay Beach is equipped with amenities including a beachside restaurant and public toilets. It’s not just a place for swimming and sunbathing; the beach is also renowned for wind and kite surfing.
Accessibility is a breeze, with the beach located close to the road and parking available right on the beach. Within a 5 km radius, visitors can explore two more beautiful beaches. Aston Bay Beach, with its calm waves, is an idyllic spot for getting up close with the ocean.
Its long stretch is ideal for privacy, complemented by the convenience of numerous BnBs along the coast. It’s a stunning location for long walks on the beach, where tranquility reigns and a nearby shop, lovely lagoon, and lifeguards during peak seasons enhance the serene experience.
4. Kabeljous Nature Reserve
Picture: Facebook / @Kabeljous Reserve Action Group – KRAG
Nestled just north of Jeffreys Bay, the Kabeljous Nature Reserve is a haven of natural beauty, offering visitors a 2.5km stretch of pristine coastline adorned with dune thickets, lush forests, bushveld, and tranquil wetlands.
This reserve is a paradise for avid hikers, presenting various trails ranging from three to seven kilometers. As you wander through this serene landscape, you may be fortunate enough to encounter an array of wildlife including bushbuck, duiker, bushpig, grysbok, caracal, and mongoose.
Bird enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the reserve is home to around 100 species of birds. For a delightful change of pace from the beach, spend a day exploring the Kabeljous Nature Reserve, complete with a picnic area at the Estuary. Just a couple of kilometers from Jeffrey’s Bay, this beautiful, peaceful reserve offers an easy loop that feels like stepping into another world.
5. Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum
Picture: Facebook / @Elisabeth Bergh – Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum
The Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum, inaugurated on 15 September 1998, stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of local shell enthusiast, Charlotte Kritzinger. Initially established to house her extensive collection, the museum has since grown through generous donations and exchanges, becoming a treasure trove of marine beauty.
Among its notable exhibits is a unique display of Jeffreys Bay micro shells, a collection believed to be unparalleled in the region. The museum, maintained in immaculate condition and supported by the Jeffreys Bay local municipality, showcases a stunning array of shells from around the world. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone captivated by life under the sea and the breathtaking beauty of our oceans.
The knowledgeable guides offer enlightening tours, ensuring a memorable and educational experience for every visitor.
A journey to Jeffreys Bay is incomplete without exploring the renowned Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum, ideally located on the town’s beachfront.
This remarkable museum boasts a collection of over 600 shell species from across the globe, ranking it among the largest shell collections in South Africa and a magnet for shell enthusiasts worldwide.
The museum’s glass cases exhibit an astonishing variety of shells, including the exotic cowrie, the elusive paper nautilus, the diminutive baby jam tarts, and even newly discovered species of cone. This museum is not just a display of shells; it’s a celebration of marine diversity and a fascinating insight into the intricate and beautiful world of shells.
Also read: South Africa’s Most Searched For Beaches
6. Jan se Gat Waterfall
Picture: Facebook / @Jan Se Gat
Jan Se Gat Waterfall and Zipline, a hidden gem located on a private farm near the Kabeljous Nature Reserve, offers an exhilarating blend of adventure and natural beauty.
This spot features a stunning waterfall and a deep swimming hole, complete with a thrilling 5-meter high zipline and a daring 12-meter jump into the pond below. The area, beautifully unspoiled and serene, is an ideal location for those looking to challenge their fear of heights in the most fun way possible. Whether it’s leaping off a cliff into deep waters or sliding down the fufi slide, there’s something for everyone, from adventurous youths to the young at heart.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, and chairs to fully enjoy this outdoor paradise. However, it’s important to note that the area is not wheelchair friendly and requires caution, as the terrain and activities can pose risks if not navigated carefully. This swimming hole is particularly popular among young adults and students, offering a vibrant, energetic atmosphere.
7. Wacky Waterpark – Jeffreys Bay
Picture: Facebook / @Wacky Waterpark
Wacky Waterpark, nestled in the Marina Martinique of Jeffreys Bay, is a fantastic family destination brimming with fun and excitement. This vibrant waterpark offers a plethora of activities for both the young and the old, making it an ideal spot for family outings, birthday parties, corporate team building, or group events.
Families can relish in watching their loved ones having a blast, with the freedom to bring their own shade and chairs. The park includes a variety of attractions such as a splash pool, a sandpit for toddlers, volleyball, and disc golf, ensuring that every visit is filled with joy and laughter.
The jumping castle and slide add to the fun, while the marina provides a refreshing swim. Older visitors and those over 1.3 meters tall can enjoy a day pass which includes lifejackets for safety and unlimited access to the exhilarating Floating Wipeout Zone and Obstacle Course.
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks or order from the on-site kiosk and can enjoy the available braai facilities. The park maintains a strict no alcohol or glass policy to ensure safety. With clean facilities and a team of friendly, helpful staff, Wacky Waterpark promises a return-worthy experience. However, visitors with sensitive skin should note the water’s high salinity, a natural aspect of the park’s coastal location.
8. JBay Surf Village
The JBay Surf Village offers a unique retail experience that captivates both visitors and locals alike. Since the 80s, this bustling hub has stood as a testament to the vibrant surf and skate culture that defines Jeffreys Bay.
More than just a collection of surf shops and factory stores, it’s an eclectic mix of home decor, delightful restaurants, and indulgent pamper spots. Ideally situated a short walk from the blue-flag Dolphin Beach, and the renowned surf spot Kitchen Windows, the JBay Surf Village is an outdoor shopping mall that beckons families for an unforgettable experience.
Here, you can book surf lessons, rent bicycles, skate on the rooftop, savor amazing food and coffee, and explore a variety of stores. It’s a place where every visit brings new delights, enticing you to return time and time again.
9. Brewhaha Craft Beer
Brewhaha Restaurant & Tap Room, offers a unique and family-friendly dining experience as the town’s first Micro Brewery. Acclaimed for their exceptional craft beers, which have garnered a gold and two silver medals at the South African National Beer Trophy Awards in 2018, and two more silvers in 2019, Brewhaha is a testament to brewing excellence. The best way to explore their range of craft beers is through a beer sampler, thoughtfully paired with food bites to enhance each beer’s unique flavor.
Brewhaha offers a variety of spaces to suit any mood: a wooden outdoor deck with umbrellas for alfresco dining, a main dining room complete with a bar area and brewer’s corner. The American-style hand-crafted menu includes delicious burgers, steaks, ribs, and salads, all prepared with the finest ingredients and house-made sauces. This charming venue, though not sprawling, buzzes with a unique charm that makes every visit memorable, whether it’s a casual outing or a special occasion.
10. Papiesfontein Beach Horse Rides
Located just a short drive from Jeffreys Bay and within easy reach of Port Elizabeth, the farm of Papiesfontein offers a unique horse-riding experience where the serene beauty of the bush meets the rhythmic waves of the beach. This special setting, situated between the Gamtoos and Kabeljous rivers, provides an idyllic backdrop for an unforgettable ride.
At Papiesfontein, the allure of beach horse riding has been drawing visitors for years, making it a renowned destination just outside Jeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Managed by Frankie & Esré Lötter since 1980, the farm also operates as Papiesfontein Beach Horse Rides. It began offering horse trails in 1996 and now features a selection of 55 well-trained horses, including a unique crossbreed of Boerperd and Scottish Highland Pony – the only ones in the country.
The popularity of these rides has soared, positioning them as a must-do activity in Jeffreys Bay, where riders can explore a 13km route through diverse landscapes, culminating in a thrilling stretch along a secluded beach.
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