Wild Coast Beaches

About Wild Coast Beaches

Your Wild Coast accommodation is set to be very special for a number of reasons - this part of the South African coastline is nothing short of spectacular, its authentic villages are charming, and the fauna and flora impressive. But, it also has some of the most exquisite beaches on the continent.

Did you know? This part of the Eastern Cape extends from the Great Kei River just outside East London to the Mtamvuna River, and includes parts of what was, until quite recently, known as the Transkei.

The landscapes and the coast are, as the name implies, wild and rugged in most places. Massive cliffs made of dark rock are iced with vivid green grass and foliage, and plunge down to ice-blue waters and ivory-coloured sand below. Cows and donkeys are the most frequent guests of the sandy beaches, and the nearby Xhosa villages are alive with the daily goings on of the local families.

Just outside East London are the pretty beaches of Cinsta, Yellow Sands, and Glengarriff. These are all particularly popular amongst surfers because they work well in a variety of conditions. Glengarriff even works on an easterly wind, which is unusual for these parts. Cintsa is a fantastic spot for the whole family, as there are long stretches of sandy shores; with plenty of place to run, walk, play beach games or build sand castles.

Coffee Bay and Mazeppa Bay are two little villages in the old Transkei; both home to some irresistible beaches. The Coffee Bay Beach is small, strewn with pebbles and rock pools, and surrounded by the rolling hills of Coffee Bay. This is a hotspot for backpackers from around the world that are looking for secluded beaches, awesome surf, and authentic African culture. Mazeppa Bay beaches are prime fishing spots that are usually occupied by local fishermen. In fact, they see very few tourists, which make them serene getaways from city life.

Just a few kilometres from here is Hole in the Wall – a magnificent natural wonder. A massive rock is perched on its own in the ocean, with a relatively small hole almost right in the centre of its base. The waves come crashing through the hole in magnificent displays. Snorkelling, swimming, and hiking around this beach promises stunning memories and impressive photographs.

Port St Johns has a distinctive “tropical island” vibe, only aided even further by the very warm waters of the Indian Ocean. It is on the mouth of the Umzimvubu River and enjoys a humid subtropical climate; perfect for beach days.

The Wild Coast beaches certainly are its major drawcard. They are special and awe-inspiring in their beauty.