Best areas to stay in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa

Summerstrand is an elegant and luxurious district south of central Port Elizabeth.

It is located near some of the most attractive beaches in the city.

Some of its outstanding beaches are Hobie Beach (home of the Splash Festival), Pollock Beach (for water sports), and the Donkin Heritage Trail.

Summerstrand is the main entertainment and leisure centre in town.

Here, you can find the Boardwalk Casino Resort. This leisure complex comprises shops, artificial lakes, lighted gardens, and live music.

Other popular attractions in the area include the Oceanarium, the Humewood golf course, the University of Technology, and the Summerstrand Village shopping centre.

Summerstrand is the best area to stay in Port Elizabeth thanks to its varied entertainment options, luxurious hotels, and privileged seaside location.

Walmer is located north of Port Elizabeth, just a 5-minute drive from the airport, and 10 minutes from the beaches.

Walmer is mostly an upmarket, family-oriented suburb, with several places of interest and a more laid-back atmosphere than Summerstrand or the CBD.

Its shopping centre, Walmer Park Shopping Centre, has more than 140 stores, cafes, and restaurants.

In addition, the area is home to the Walmer Country Club, ideal for golf enthusiasts.

Walmer is ideal for walking, picnicking, or for those seeking a quiet and family-friendly atmosphere.

The nearest train stations are Emerald Hill, Valley Station and Bog Farm, located to the south of the area.

Walmer is among the best areas to stay in Port Elizabeth if you are looking for tranquillity.

It hosts several important chain hotels and well-equipped independently-owned apartments.

Pollock Beach is north of Summerstrand, near Marine Drive and 10th Avenue.

Pollock Beach is known for having some of the tallest waves in South Africa, making it one of the best areas to stay in Port Elizabeth for surfers and water sports enthusiasts.

Staying near this beach allows you to enjoy the summer events and watch some of Port Elizabeth’s best sunsets.

The area is opposite Marine Drive, the highway that leads to the city centre. Therefore, Pollock Beach is a great area to stay in Port Elizabeth with a car, whether yours or a rental.

Accommodation in this area is made up of resorts and upmarket hotels, there are also some luxury apartments with swimming pools.

Bluewater Bay is one of the beaches of North Port Elizabeth, famous for its white sand and for offering contact with nature.

Dolphin watching is one of the main activities in Bluewater Bay, as are kayak and yacht rides or diving.

This area is also near the Addo Elephant Park, home to many African elephants, 5 whales, exotic sharks, and other animal species.

This area is a bit far from the city centre, so it’s a best fit for travellers with a car.

Bluewater Bay is the best area to stay in Port Elizabeth to enjoy dolphin watching and discover the natural side of Port Elizabeth.

To stay in this area, there are many options, from 3-star hotels to B&Bs and fairly affordable apartments close to the beach.

Port Elizabeth Central is the heart of the city and a very lively area.

This district comprises several historic neighbourhoods and is home to many of the colonial, art déco and art nouveau buildings in town.

The main tourist attractions in Central Port Elizabeth are St Georges Park Conservatory, The Campanile, Fort Frederick, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum and Donkin Lighthouse.

Famous Route 67 is a trail of freedom-themed artworks by South African artists.

This district is also the best area to stay in Port Elizabeth for business, as it’s home to the city’s office spaces and convention centres.

Port Elizabeth Central is also the place to go for nightlife and upscale dining in this South African city.