The town straddles the banks of the Kowie River and its wide sandy beaches extend for miles on either side. Port Alfred was established by a group of English settlers in the early 1800s with the aim of establishing it as one of the major seaports in the Eastern Cape, but the sandbanks at the Kowie River made this impossible. Today the town has a small-boat harbour with associated marina.

With its mild temperatures year-round, the town lends itself to a perfect holiday destination for young and old. Visitors can enjoy the relaxed village atmosphere or choose from a variety of outdoor activities in and around the town.

Situated along the coast and enjoying such temperate weather makes Port Alfred an ideal water sports destination which is enhanced by the fact that the Kowie River is navigable for about 22 kilometres. The Kowie River, which flows into the Indian Ocean, divides the town in two and the banks are linked by a couple of bridges. Boat cruises and various hiking trails are available in this region, which is rich in indigenous flora, fauna and bird life.

 

See our Activities page for more on things to do in and around Port Alfred.