No-one really knows how the little village of Coffee Bay got its name, but the story goes, that a ship, wrecked along its shores, deposited its cargo of coffee along its shores back in 1863. Today, despite its tiny size (it has a population of just 258 people) and remote location, this little bay is something of a must-visit stop along the Wild Coast route, owing to its dramatic scenery and stunning kilometre-long beach. A favourite of backpackers and South African hippies, it's a popular base for travellers wanting to hike, surf, or enjoy its unspoilt nature. Our collection of the best places to stay in Coffee Bay showcase the best value stays.

What not to miss

• Traverse the Port St Johns trail, from the lush coastal forests of Silaka to the rolling hills of Mpande, across grassland, rocky shores, mangrove estuaries, nature reserves and rural villages.
• Visit between June and July, it's also popular with visitors who want to enjoy the sardine run experience.
• If you’re not hiked out, complete the trail to Hole in the Wall, passing Baby Hole and Hlungwane Waterfall along the way.
• A little further afield, explore the magic of Mdumbi Beach’s undeniable beauty, where mud huts are dotted along the coastline.

Our collection of the best places to stay in Coffee Bay showcase the best back to nature experiences.

The Best Places to stay in Coffee Bay

For a great value stay

• Great value, great location Wild Lubanzi Backpackers offers everything the eco-traveller desires, as well as delicious, locally sourced food!

For an eco stay 

• A little further afield, Swell Eco Lodge is big on saving the planet, small on pricing. This family-owned eco lodge, nestled along the wild Mdumbi coastline is perfect for those who want to get back to nature.

Travel Information

• If you want to rent self-drive to explore the Eastern Cape, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Mthatha Airport has daily flights from Johannesburg, and it’s under a two-hour drive from Coffee Bay - taxis can be booked easily.
• Enjoying a very temperate climate, with temperatures in the mid-twenties throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall in the months of March and November. Do bear in mind, it can get a little chilly in the evenings, during the winter months of June-August.

Still not sure?

• Widen the net to include our recommendations in the Eastern Cape.
• Or contact one of our gurus for advice.