For a tranquil and refreshing retreat, East London is matchless. Visitors to South Africa’s only river port receive a warm welcome into a relaxed lifestyle. Nestled between the Nahoon and Buffalo Rivers and lapped at by the soothing waters of the Indian Ocean, East London’s charms makes it a subtropical paradise. Although the primary language is IsiXhosa, the gracious and easy-going people of East London are eager to practice their English to welcome new friends who come to share a taste of this treasure of the Eastern Cape Province.

The Gonibu Beach

The N2 connects East London and Gonubie Beach which is 25 kilometres north. Gonubie Beach attained blue flag status which is a commended international award that is only given to beaches that meet strict goals in protecting the environment, providing safety equipment and personnel. The main parking area borders the beach and is by an expansive scenic wooden boardwalk passing by man built tidal pools and rich native vegetation.

The Nahoon Beach

Named for a local Xhosa tribal chief, Nahoon Beach is East London’s most popular site for water sports of all kinds. Nahoon’s ideal surfing conditions have made it the home of the Surf Live Saving Club, as well as host to many exciting national surfing competitions. Many kilometres of pristine and crowdless sand makes Nahoon Beach an ideal destination for anglers and swimmers alike.

Orient Beach

Tourists everywhere are drawn to the beautiful and unique Orient Beach. Hotels and shops are also close by via a short trip down the southern point of the promenade located in East London’s Quigney suburb. Safe and protected, Orient Beach’s break waters keep the bathing waters calm, with life guards always on watch. For those who prefer fresh water swimming, 2 circular pools, large and flanked by emerald green lawns, are available and allow plenty of space for thousands to gather. Changing facilities are conveniently located as well. In season, there are kiosks for quick refreshments, as well as a multitude of local restaurants for hungry swimmers looking for a satisfying meal after an enjoyable day at Orient Beach.

Car Rental

If you need to travel around, you can be sure to get great rates on East London car rentals by visiting carrentalssa.co.za.

East London Aquarium

The oldest public aquarium in South Africa, the Frends of East London Aquarium, was officially opened on 2nd December 1931. This aquarium plays a vital role in rehabilitating hundreds of marine animals affected by pollution and other disasters and later returning them to the ocean every year. The aquarium also plays a key role by imparting education to the locals in understanding and not interfering in the eco system of the ocean. The local fish population has been displayed in the aquarium in very big and beautifully lighted fish tanks.

East London is a great vacation destination for both tourists and inlanders taking a break from their daily grind. Its waterfront provides a lot of water activities. One of the best attractions is watching the Southern Right Wales. These are Wales that migrate down to the African coast to their feeding grounds in the arctic feeding grounds. They can be seen from not far, and for that reason there is an aquarium built right here by the surf to watch them as they pass. The place also provides great beaches to relax and play, and there is no complaining the hospitality.

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