Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Walking South Africa - Beaches of the Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape boasts one of the most diverse terrains for a holiday walking South Africa's stunning landscape. From traversing the mountainous regions with traditional villages and abundant wildlife; to strolling along the picturesque beaches of Transkei's Wild Coast, the Eastern Cape never fails to astound. South Africa's beaches are nothing short of spectacular with pristine sands and fantastic swells. Whether your idea of the perfect beach is a deserted bay on a windswept coastline, or an activity-packed family beach where you can engage in all kinds of water-sports; the 800 km coastline along the Eastern Cape has the best of both worlds.

Jeffrey's Bay

Famous all over the world, at least amongst the surfing community, Jeffrey's Bay has reputedly one of the best swells in the world. The annual international surfing competition the 'Billabong Pro' has been held here for many years. Walking South Africa's most famous surf beach, you may catch sight of some well-known faces from the pro-surfing circuit and, for those with a taste for adventure, it is the perfect place to try out that long-held ambition to 'hang ten' with your 'toes on the nose'! Popular sites for the more experienced surfers are Magna Tubes, Kitchen Windows, Boneyards, Supertubes and Tubes.

Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth is another town popular with surfers, but don't worry, if surfing isn't your thing, there are plenty of other activities to keep you occupied. With over 40km of wide, sandy beaches, Port Elizabeth caters for pretty much every type of holiday maker. The warm, calm waters are tempting enough to entice even the most timid swimmer; and the seemingly endless stretches of golden beaches are ideal for leisurely walking. South Africa has a wonderful marine-life and Port Elizabeth is the ideal place to experience it; treat yourself to the thrill of a lifetime on a whale-watching cruise along the coast.

East London

No, this is not a misprint; the beaches of East London on South Africa's Eastern Cape are renowned as amongst the world's most sublime. Walking South Africa's version of East London could not be more different than its European namesake. Many of the beaches are completely unspoilt in terms of development. Spend a day at the delightful Igoda Beach and, although you will need to take a picnic lunch with you, the experience of strolling along a deserted beach with only the waves to keep you company, can make you feel like the last person on earth.

Kariega Beach - Kenton on Sea

Kareiga Beach is so fantastic it was once voted the best beach in South Africa. Walking along its famed shores, it's easy to see why. Completely safe and with wonderful facilities, it has retained its charm despite being a popular tourist haven. As well as being an ideal place to while away the hours in the sun or take a dip in the warm waters, it is also a great beach to explore on long rambling walks. Situated between two rivers, years of ebbs and tide flows, have created a fascinating mosaic of tidal pools to explore.

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