The Sunshine Coast is a coastal tourism route stretching from Tsitsikamma to East London in the Eastern Cape. Bursting with adventure and coastal charm, it comprises rivers, lakes and lagoons, sub-tropical forests, one of the world’s top surfing spots and countless quaint seaside hamlets just waiting to be explored.
Best time to visit
The Sunshine Coast is an all-year-round destination, due to its warm climate.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Sunshine Coast, Eastern Cape, has more sunshine hours per year than any other South African region.
The Sunshine Coast, Eastern Cape, is unlike its international namesakes in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. For a start, it’s always sunny on this Sunshine Coast and, despite its popularity with local and international visitors, the region has managed to avoid excessive commercialization and retain an element of old-world charm.
Sunshine Coast attractions abound, from the pristine sub-tropical forests of Tsitsikamma with its numerous eco-trails and hikes, to the luxury bush destinations inland and its magnificent 500km stretch of beach that nudges the warm Indian Ocean, complete with sheltered coves, rock pools and lagoons.
The Sunshine Coast tourism route incorporates the quaint resorts of Kenton-on-Sea, Port Alfred, Cape St. Francis and St. Francis Bay, all of which exude a typical seaside village ambience. It also features the watersport hotspot, Jeffrey’s Bay, which is considered the ‘home of the perfect wave’ and one of the best surfing spots in the world. J-Bay, as the locals call it, hosts the popular Billabong Pro international surfing event each year.
The Tsitsikamma National Park marks the start of the Eastern Cape’s Sunshine Coast, and is an absolute must for adventure seekers. Abseiling, hiking, river rides, nature trails and the world’s highest commercial bungee jump are all on offer in this protected park.
At the route’s northern end is the coastal town of East London, affectionately known as Buffalo City. Like much of the rest of the Eastern Cape, this town has a rich history associated with the local people and the impact of the arrival of early European settlers. Further historical attractions can be sought out in the various inland towns, most notably Grahamstown.
The Sunshine Coast is also home to several nature reserves, including the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Complex, renowned Addo Elephant National Park and Shamwari Game Reserve, which offer authentic wildlife experiences in a malaria-free setting.