The quaint Cape St Francis resort town near Port Elizabeth is a popular holiday destination for Eastern Cape locals, who flock to the bay for its clean beaches and excellent surfing. It’s a small village surrounded by nature reserves, making it a favourite choice for eco-conscious holidaymakers. Families love St Francis resort for its safe swimming beaches, especially Johnson’s Pool, a popular sheltered bathing spot.
Cape St Francis has the longest hours of sunshine on the South African coast, so take your pick of St Francis accommodation and take advantage of the extra daytime to explore all that this village has to offer, from windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking to hiking and abseiling.
What to do on holiday in St Francis
- Visit Seal Point Lighthouse, which was constructed in the late 1800s and declared a National Monument in 1984.
- Visit Cape St Francis Lighthouse, which boasts the tallest masonry tower on the South Africa coast.
- Visit the Penguin Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre.
- Go surfing at Seal Point.
- Birdwatching is a rewarding pastime on holiday in St Francis.
- Enjoy a canal cruise and boat trip up the Kromme River.
- Hike the Blowhole Trail through the Irma Booysen Flora Reserve to view the remains of The Osprey, shipwrecked on the beach with large shell deposits still intact.
- Explore Cape St Francis Nature Reserve, which is home to beautiful sand dunes and fine examples of coastal dune fynbos and coastal dune thicket.
If that’s not enough to entice you to book an adventure holiday in St Francis, how about the big game fishing, sand boarding, whale watching and jet-skiing on the menu? Make sure you experience all that this little town has to offer by staying at the best St Francis accommodation, self catering or otherwise. Get in touch with us to book your 2024 stay today!
When is the best time to visit?
- The best time to visit Cape St Francis resort is in the warmest months, December to March.
- The weather is pleasant year-round.
Getting there
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour, 35 minutes.
- Drive time from PE to St Francis: approximately one hour.
What must I pack?
- The weather is temperate all year round, but can be unpredictable, so always keep a light windbreaker on hand.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for summer holidays.
- Always travel with a mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Your camera (or just use your phone).
What can I do to become a responsible traveler?
- Be water-wise. Be mindful and sparing with your water usage.
- Support the local economy. Buy local food, souvenirs and support local artisans where possible at markets and pop-up stalls.
Safety tips
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for valuables.
What do I do in an emergency?
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist in any travel related emergency.
