Best 10 Things to do in PE

Boardwalk Musical Fountains

Port Elizabeth, March, 27, 2017 – Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a laid-back but vibrant location with entertainment for the whole family, Port Elizabeth is the perfect destination. It’s not only rich in award-winning wildlife destinations and some interesting museums, but also home to spectacular beaches. And it’s not known as the ‘Friendly City’ for nothing, as visitors will agree that people in PE are very warm, and always make you feel at home.

With public holidays and the Easter weekend approaching, PE is an ideal long weekend road trip destination. Apart from the hours of sunshine visitors can expect to enjoy, here are some of the top 10 attractions in the Friendly City.

1. Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park is the third largest national park in South Africa and is home to all of Africa’s ‘Big 7’, namely elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, southern right whale and the great white shark. Whether for day trips, picnics, or staying over in the caravan park, this location offers visitors a memorable wildlife experience.

2. Maitland Sand Dunes

If you are looking for hours of fun and a dash of adrenaline, then you’re sure to enjoy sand boarding at the Maitland Sand Dunes. The dunes are easily accessible and, while it may be a challenging trek up to the top, it’s worthwhile for the spectacular views and scenery, and the best part – sliding down.

3. The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World

With a variety of entertainment, shopping, family fun, and dining, Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World offers every member of the family something exciting and fun to see and experience.

4. Beaches

With more than 40 kilometers of golden sand along the Algoa Bay coast, Port Elizabeth is home to some of the most magnificent beaches in South Africa. King’s Beach is one of three beaches in the Friendly City to have been awarded Blue Flag Status, meaning that, in addition to its scenery and attractions, it is safe and environmentally friendly.

5. Kragga Kamma Game Reserve

If you don’t have time for a longer game drive at a national park, the Kragga Kamma Game Reserve is a great option; visitors can easily go on a trip around the park in fewer than three hours. Not only is the park more affordable compared to other safaris, it also has impressive wildlife numbers for its size.

6. Shark Rock Pier

One of the most prominent features and major landmarks of Port Elizabeth is the Shark Rock Pier, which is located between Hobie Beach and the Red Windmill. You can enjoy views from different points on the stylish pier, which could be considered one of the city’s best kept secret attractions.

7. Bayworld

Located in the centre of the Port Elizabeth beachfront, Bayworld is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. With a diversity of fascinating museum displays combined with an oceanarium and a snake park, as well as other educational entertainment, you will be kept intrigued for hours.

8. Donkin Heritage Trail

If you want to take a historical tour of the Friendly City, the five kilometer long Donkin Heritage Trail provides visitors with interesting insight into the diverse and captivating history of Port Elizabeth and South Africa. You can expect to see no fewer than 47 historical sights, including the city hall.

9. Port Elizabeth Opera House

For a taste of the finest dramatic productions and shows in the Eastern Cape, you can head to the Port Elizabeth Opera House and Barn Theatre which is the only surviving example of a Victorian Theatre in Africa, and was recognised as the finest theatre in the world when it opened.

10. Splash Waterworld Supertubes

If you’re looking for another holiday spot packed with fun for the whole family in Port Elizabeth, the Splash Waterworld Supertubes will not disappoint. With a super tube speed slide, lazy river slide, and three kiddies’ slides, the entire family can be kept entertained for hours sliding on the awesome super tubes.

So, now that you know which tourist attractions to make a stop at during your visit in PE, make sure you plan your road trip beforehand. It’s important to keep safe on the road during the busy holiday periods – check out ‘How to Be Safe on the Road This Winter’. And, if you’re planning to make a stop outside the South African border, you may also want to check on your Car Insurance agreement.

Article was written in collaboration with Hippo.co.za