Where the Garden Route ends, and the Wild and Sunshine Coast begins, South Africa’s Eastern Cape is lesser-known than its Western counterpart. Travellers here are rewarded with deserted beaches, safari, and laid back cities. From little Port Elizabeth and characterful East London, every surfer’s favourite hangout, Jeffreys Bay, to the rugged Wild Coast hamlets of Coffee Bay, Chintsa, and Storms River, the Eastern Cape has a plethora of places to visit. Few travellers travel to its capital, Bhisho, a small, inland, administrative centre; instead, its larger neighbour, East London, with its pretty bay-front setting between the Sunshine and Wild Coast, draws a much larger crowd. Our pick of the best places to stay in the Eastern Cape combines the best in urban, safari, and coastal stays, to suit every style and budget.
Further south, the Eastern Cape’s largest city, Port Elizabeth is a melting pot of African, Malaysian, and Portuguese cultures, culminating in a flavoursome food scene – which has to be sampled to truly experience the city. Located at the fringes of the Sunshine Coast, along Algoa Bay, it must surely one of the best urban environments with such an impressive spectrum of marine life: dolphins, whale sharks, seals, and much more can be spotted. It is also just a 30-minute drive to Addo Elephant Park, home to over 600 African Elephants, as well as lions, zebras, and black rhinos.
Sprawled across 1000 kms of the Indian Ocean’s rugged coastline, town after village attracts travellers looking for a peaceful seaside escape or in search of some of South Africa’s largest waves. Jeffrey’s Bay, the host of the annual World Surf League, boasts some of the worlds best ‘super tubes’. Between June and August is when the pros descend on this otherwise languid town, but beginners are always welcome. A true ‘surf-scene’ over the years a scattering of health cafés, bars, yoga studios, and boutique shops – all accoutrements of an increasingly trendy town, have sprung up along Jeffrey’s Bay’s main seafront.
On the other end of the scale, the tiny coastal hamlets of Chintsa, Coffee Bay, and Storms River are for the traveller truly just wanting to explore the great outdoors. From white water rafting along the Chintsa River mouth, to the windswept deserted beaches of Coffee Bay, and a long list of outdoor activities, from bungee jumping to zip lining along Storms River. Take your pick! There is no shortage of ways to enjoy the Eastern Cape’s aptly named, Wild Coast.
Alternatively, If you like rambling through the wilderness of Mother Nature, then the Eastern Cape is the place for you. Mountain Zebra National Park, roughly 200 km inland from Port Elizabeth, is a truly sublime place to be, defined by long arid plains and flat-crested mountain ranges. Addo Elephant National Park is a must-see: with over 200 elephants, numerous Cape buffalo, black rhino, and rare species of birdlife, it is a treasure trove of nature with the added bonus of being one of the few places in the country that is malaria-free all-year-round.
Our collection of the best places to stay in the Eastern Cape showcase the best in budget-friendly, boutique, lodges, and all-out luxury hotels.
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Coffee Bay
A unique tented lodge, located overlooking one of the most pristine stretched of The Wild Coast. A true "back to nature"experience, a stay in one of their tents is heaven for lovers of the simple life. Dining is superb: freshly made dishes from locally grown vegetables and freshly baked breads.
Hogsback
"Not everyone's cup of tea" or so they say themselves, the environmentally conscious traveller will simply adore this hotel. Completely off the grid, there are no plug points, no TVs, no waste. It's an impressive operation. With pristine riding trails and eco-chic interiors its an immersive stay.
Jeffrey's Bay
You are well looked after at this owner-managed B&B within moments of the pristine beaches of Jeffrey's Bay. Each of the five suites is decorated in a Mediterranean style with opulent upholstered headboards and bathrooms with roll-top tubs. A superb breakfast is served each morning. Lovely pool.
Jeffrey's Bay
Quirky self-catering guesthouse provides excellent value accommodation within walking distance of Jeffrey's Bay. Each room is unique, interiors feature bright pop art, red leather sofas and stylish outdoor living areas, including a great plunge pool. Homely self-catering accommodation at its best.
Jeffrey's Bay
Located on the banks of the Kabeljauws River estuary this opulent guesthouse provides luxurious accommodation at an excellent price. A Tuscan-styled villa each of its six rooms are filled with antiques and traditional pieces: four poster beds, terracotta tiles, claw-foot tubs. Beautiful gardens.
Port Elizabeth
Traditional 20th-century hotel boasting architecture iconic of its time. Each of its three rooms includes colourful interiors with plenty of original features, including working fireplaces and exposed wood floors. Your choice of English or Continental breakfast is served.
East London
Behind its grand exteriors lies a surprisingly intimate and comfortable stay. Family friendly, under 12's stay free. Each of its eight rooms boasts all the mod cons and good sized en-suites. There's no pool, but the Indian Ocean is just a few moments away. A well-priced, well-located stay.
East London
It's rare to find such levels of luxury with such an inviting price tag. Boasting indulgent suites with private balconies and views to boot you're within walking distance of the Indian Ocean. There's a large pool and a sunny dining conservatory - where a superb breakfast is served. A great choice.
Port Elizabeth
Boasting a veritable breakfast spread and comfortable accommodation, including plenty of family suites and en suite bathroom. There is a pool, gardens, tennis courts, and plenty to keep little ones busy. A great family stay - great value too.
Eastern Cape
Family-owned eco lodged in a truly rugged positioning, on the wild Mdumbi coastline. Each of the eight thatched cottages provides simple yet comfortable accommodation: perfect for those who want to get back to nature. There's a pool, family accommodation, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Port Elizabeth
Beautifully decorated cottage suites with statement wallpapers, wrought iron beds and colourfully upholstered furnishings. A buffet breakfast is served plus there is a small kitchenette in each cottage. Beautiful lawns and leafy grounds provide a relaxing stay. Great value.
Port Elizabeth
A cocoon of tranquillity within close distance to Port Elizabeth. Each of its 12 bedrooms is uniquely decorated with four-poster beds, mosaic tiles, local artwork, and enormous in-room baths. A great breakfast is served plus there beautiful gardens in which to relax. Excellent value.
Chintsa
Excellent value safari lodge. Providing a true camping experience, with all the difficult bits taken care of! Each of the 12 tents provides a comfortable stay with en suite bathrooms and private terrace to take in those views. A hearty breakfast is served and sundowners by the fire are very popular.
Chintsa
Five eco-cottages within walking distance of the Wild Coast's most beautiful beaches. Simple yet sustainable, with everything a nature lover could want. Self-catering, you're walking distance from local restaurants. Guests should bear in mind, this is a "4.20 friendly stay" - if you know, you know!
Port Elizabeth
Delightful owner managed bungalow turned popular B&B. Guests will feel right at home in their luxurious abode, styled with silks, ornate lamps, and English country decor. The best opening out onto the pool. A full English breakfast is served each morning. An excellent value stay.
Port Elizabeth
Cosy cottage interiors providing self-catering accommodation amidst the beautiful setting of Maitland Nature Park. A fully equipped kitchen, open plan living areas which open out on your private terrace provide a very comfortable stay. Suites include modern bathrooms. Surrounded by nature.
Port Elizabeth
Delightful owner managed B&B providing well-priced family accommodation. With just two bedrooms, it's a very intimate stay. Each of its rooms is decorated in muted colours and floral patterns, with attached bathrooms. A full English breakfast is served each morning.
Storms River (Storms River, )
A village within a village, this hotel is comprised of a collection of colonial style cottages scattered around manicured grounds and an inviting pool. There are several restaurants and shops surrounding the 'village' from Marilyn's 60's Diner to an on-site microbrewery. Plenty of activities nearby!
Storms River
Well-priced, family accommodation within easy reach of Tsitsikamma National Park's many activities. Large rooms with private balconies look out across an outdoor pool and mountains beyond. Within walking distance of Storm River's village shops and restaurants.
Addo
Contemporary stay within easy reach of some of Addo's most popular attractions. This family and budget-friendly guesthouse provides guests with their choice of sumptuous buffet and full English breakfast. There's an inviting pool and flexible accommodation, with rooms that include private terraces.
Port Elizabeth
Set within a tranquil garden around a sun-drenched pool providing roomy accommodation in the leafy suburb of Mill Park. Providing the perfect base to explore the surrounding game parks, beaches and golf courses of the Eastern Cape - enormous suites, modern bathrooms, and superb food. A great stay.
Port Elizabeth
Delightful owner managed B&B located in the quiet suburb of Summerstrand, yet within easy access of Port Elizabeth. Each of its eight rooms is uniquely decorated, with private balconies, enormous beds and ensuite bedrooms. Spacious living areas, an outdoor pool, and excellent home cooked food.
Port Elizabeth (Summerstrand)
Budget and family friendly accommodation that benefits from plenty of family suites plus an inviting outdoor pool. A healthy breakfast is served each morning to set you up for a day's exploring - the hotel is walking distance from many of Port Elizabeth's attractions.
Eastern Cape (EASTERN CAPE)
Dating back to the early 1800s this traditional Cape Dutch style manor house is located in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet. Surrounded by the rustic beauty of The Karoo you are treated to luxurious accommodation in this refined setting. Fine dining, a spa, and a large pool. Very inviting.
Port Elizabeth
Delightful owner-managed guest house in the leafy suburb of Summerstand. Benefitting from a local golf course, you're still with easy reach of Port Elizabeth's city centre. Beautiful suites, decorated in creams and blue lookout across the garden and pool. A cosy stay, complete with great breakfast.
Jeffrey's Bay
Delightful hotel with beautiful outdoor areas including a perfectly sized garden with al fresco dining area, braai, and fire pit. Rooms are decorated with vibrant pops of colour and a hint of Africa. All include modern bathrooms. A hearty breakfast is served to set you up for the day.
Storms River
Family and budget friendly, this great-outdoorsy hotel provides laidback living for all ages. Flexible accommodation includes outdoor terraces, opening up onto gardens teeming with wildlife (make friends with the resident chameleons)! A buffet breakfast is the perfect start to a day's exploring.
Addo
An excellent value family stay with a long list of outdoor activities and flexible accommodation. Comfortable rooms are the perfect base from which to explore Addo Elephant Park. Hearty South African dining is on the menu, plus there's an inviting pool. A great choice.
East London
An urban oasis. Overlooking a former quarry this charming guesthouse runs like a well-oiled machine. With twenty years behind them a dedicated team of staff, plus cosy rooms, al fresco dining, inviting pool, verdant surrounds: it all provides for a very peaceful backdrop to your stay in East London.
Morgan Bay
A delightful beachside hotel, in the family for generations. Light and bright rooms, with splashes of colour and beautiful balconies boasting sea views, provide a very comfortable stay. A stone's throw from Morgan's Bay, enjoy a treatment at Milkwood spa. Excellent dining - great for families.
Jeffrey's Bay
The clue is in the name! Located right along the popular Jeffrey's Bay this hotel boasts unrivalled sea views and a bounty of nautical activities right on your doorstep. Your choice of B&B and self-catering accommodation makes this a flexible family stay. Beautiful rooms and charming hosts. Superb.
Addo
Traditional African style huts, with thatched roofs, concealing luxurious interiors and quirky bathrooms. Each includes its own private sit out from which to watch the birds and wildlife pass by. There's a pool, excellent safari opportunities, as well as a strong environmental ethos.
Chintsa
Popular owner-managed B&B, walking distance of The Wild Coast's spectacular coastline. Explore some of South Africa's most rugged landscapes from the comfort of this homely stay. Very family friendly, dine on hearty dishes to fuel you for the day. Rooms include flexible accommodation with balconies.
Eastern Cape
Luxurious well-priced accommodation with a bounty of outdoor activities right on your doorstep. Get the camping experience, with luxurious tents and smart bathrooms. An enormous breakfast is served each morning. You're well taken care of by your dedicated hosts. A great stay.
Port Elizabeth
Stylish accommodation within walking distance of Port Elizabeth's restaurants and attractions. Smart suites include four-poster beds and plush interiors. There's a spa, outdoor pool, lively bar, plus an excellent breakfast is served. A great city stay.
Addo
This colonial style lodge, boasting traditional thatched roof and surrounded by the wilderness of Addo National Park, just 8km away. Beautiful rooms include exposed beams, boldly upholstered furnishings and antique Persian rugs. Excellent cuisine and romantic rooms plus daily safaris.
Addo (Rietvlei Road, )
A very well priced family stay. There is something for everyone here, wildlife safaris, spa treatments, cycling, and even yoga classes - all ages will love. A hearty breakfast is included, to set you up for a day spent exploring. Excellently located for visits to Addo Elephant Park.
Storms River (Stormsriver, )
Occupying an epic setting, overlooking the Sanddrift River Gorge. Like a scene from Jurassic Park, the restaurant boasts views across a 30m waterfall, accompanied by a gourmet breakfast: a great way to start the day. Luxurious cottages and lavish bathrooms, plus there's a pool, sauna, and hot tub.
Port Elizabeth
Dating back to 1898 this heritage hotel, set amidst an English country garden provides a comfortable homestay. Rooms are decorated in a classic style with floral prints, traditional artwork, and large bathrooms. Cosy sitting rooms include open place fires. Excellent dining - a great stay.
Eastern Cape
Located an hour's drive from East London this relaxing nine bedroom lodge provides lavish accommodation surrounded by the rugged bushveld. Each of its rooms includes opulent interiors and boasts a private balcony. There's an outdoor pool plus a spa and fine dining. Lots of activities on site.
Addo
This intimate lodge, within easy reach of the wilderness of Addo Elephant Park, provides a pampering backdrop during your stay in the Eastern Cape. Fine dining, a long list of spa treatments, lavish suites and modern bathrooms: it all makes for a very romantic stay. Outdoor activities abound.
Chintsa (Chintsa, )
Very romantic, beautifully decorated hotel within easy reach of Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve. A great stay for couples, or those who like the great outdoors, but enjoy life's luxuries a little more. Sprawling suites include ensuites with cavernous baths. Excellent dining. A wonderful stay.
Addo
Excellent value luxurious lodge this seven bedroom stay provides guests with very comfortable rooms: four-poster beds and Victorian style bathrooms with clawfoot tubs and monochrome tiles. There's an inviting pool, fine dining, and guests can choose between 4x4, walking, and elephant safaris.
Addo (Addo 6105 )
A lovely Victorian homestead set within Addo Elephant Park. The eight individual suites are elegant yet homely with antiques, beautiful bathrooms and fabulous views. Spend days on exhilarating game drives before returning to feast on top-notch gourmet cuisine and unwind in the indulgent spa.
Addo
This all-inclusive camp provides excellent value for families. With all meals, plus two game drives included in the rate, it's a very inviting option. Stylish tents provide every creature comfort, whilst still feeling like you're camping. There's a pool, a bar, and unspoilt views of Bushmans River.
Addo (EASTERN CAPE)
Set within the rugged surrounds of Addo Elephant National Park overlooked by the Zuurberg Mountains. There is a long list of outdoor activities, so it's very popular with families and al fresco spa treatments means adults can relax too! Candle-lit dining, luxury rooms - it's a popular stay.
Eastern Cape
Surrounded by thousands of acres of wild terrain, with 360° views across the Plains of Camdeboo. Choose from cheetah tracking to walking safaris, and picnic out in the wild. With admirable sustainability efforts, this property is passionate about conservation. Beautiful suites and fine dining.
Addo
The real safari experience. This 1920s style camp provides an authentic safari experience. Open tents are designed in a colonial style - camp beds with rustic trunks. Cooking is done on an open fire under the stars. A true adventure, yet very romantic, and children will love! One of a kind.
Port Alfred
Perfectly located between the Indian Ocean and acres of private game reserve this eight-bedroom property provides a luxurious stay with every creature comfort. There's a gym, a spa, plus an outdoor pool, and daily safari drives. Superb dining sets you up for a day exploring. A great stay.
Addo
Well priced, all-inclusive lodge accommodation providing luxurious interiors and excellent value. Each of its thatched cottages offers an authentic African stay amidst the wilderness with the benefit of four-poster beds, private terraces, and enormous baths. Twice daily safaris should not be missed.
Eastern Cape
This colonial style country house provides a perfect family stay amidst nature. With sprawling gardens, there is plenty of space for little ones to run around as well as opulent living and dining areas to spread yourself out. Beautiful rooms include smart bathrooms. Adults and children are spoilt.
Addo
With just four bedrooms, this lodge is a very intimate experience. With tailored family accommodation, it's a great stay for all ages. Each room and tent provides luxurious interiors, depending on your preference. Make friends with your four-legged neighbours on a safari drive!
Addo
Charming property providing both tented and lodge accommodation. Children are well looked after with special kids safaris and a children's club, plus tailored menus and family suites. Every room boasts fabulous views, choose between four posters and lavish tents. All include spoiling bathrooms.
Eastern Cape (Greater Addo, )
Stunning modern built safari lodge decorated in a contemporary style with sweeping views. Each of its nine suites is exquisitely decorated, with en-suites boasting enormous tubs and floor to ceiling windows to gaze out of. Plenty of activities plus spa treatments and superb dining.
Eastern Cape
Epic river location, right along the banks of the majestic Bushman's River. Perfect for families with older children (above 10s welcome) there is so much to keep all ages entertained: safaris, fishing, sailing, guided walks, and spa treatments. Charming cottage interiors and five-star dining.
Eastern Cape ((90 km from Port Elizabeth on the N2 towards Graha)
Stunning ten-bedroom lodge located on the private Lalibela Game Reserve. Choose between tent and lodge accommodation, both wonderfully luxurious. Ideal for families, there is an outdoor children playground and pool. Rooms include balconies with far reaching views. Fine dining and daily safaris.
Port Elizabeth (Kariega Game Reserve,)
Five-star luxury lodge boasting a long list of spa treatments and outdoor activities. Adults only, guests are in for a pampering stay. Each of the ten suites boasts sweeping views, enormous bathrooms, and the best private pools. Dine to your heart's content at this all-inclusive lodge.
Eastern Cape (Kenton-On-Sea)
Ideal for families, choose between one-bedroom and three-bedroom villa accommodation in an epic setting. This all-inclusive stay means you can enjoy dining, safaris and many other perks to your heart's content. Rooms are decorated in a cosy style with exposed wood and roll top baths.
Eastern Cape
Five-star accommodation surrounded by rugged bushveld home to Africa's Big Five! This intimate four-bedroom private game reserve is perfect for couples, providing privacy and luxurious interiors. Each cottage includes a private terrace for stargazing. The pool boasts incredible views. Stunning.
Eastern Cape
Romantic ten-bedroom lodge with cosy cottages and lavish interiors. This adults-only property boasts a superb menu and intimate al fresco dining. Relax by the infinity pool and watch the wildlife pass. Each suite includes four-poster beds, a private balcony, enormous baths, and his and hers basins.
Addo
Five-star stay amidst the famed Addo Elephant National Park. Relax in the lavish setting of your colonial-style tent to the sound of the plains. Candle-lit dining is the height of luxury - every creature comfort is taken care of. There's an inviting pool (the guest's own watering hole) to unwind.
Eastern Cape
All out luxury this contemporary, architecturally beautiful lodge provides chic accommodation in a rugged setting. Sprawling rooms provide a lavish stay with sink into bathtubs boasting epic views. Superb dining, an inviting bar, and a picture worthy infinity pool.
Eastern Cape
Private game reserve comprised of five different properties, all different, all equally as luxurious. Choose between exclusive use villas and stylish suites. Superb wildlife opportunities, gourmet dining, spa treatments, and plenty to keep the little ones busy. Excellent eco credentials.
Addo
An ultimate five-star stay. These luxurious suites boast private pools, opulent interiors, enormous bathrooms and epic views. There is an open-air spa, offering traditional treatments, as well as a gourmet menu and al fresco dining. Wildlife is on your doorstep at this all-inclusive stay.
