101 ‘Must do’ things when visiting East London

Don’t ever let it be said “there is nothing to do in East London”. While we are well known for being the smallest and most laid-back of all the cities in South Africa, East London is by no means short of activities and adventures to offer tourists and visitors to our fair city. Here is our choice of the Top 101 ‘must do’ things for visitors (and locals) alike:

1 . Abbey

Meet Abbey, the world famous giraffe that photobombed an unsuspecting bridal couples wedding photographs. Abbey was rescued and hand reared after his mother was killed by poachers. This human loving, attention seeking giraffe is the beloved resident of the Areena Riverside Private Resort and his name is an acronym for ‘Abnormally Big Baby….’!

2. Abakwetha

During the isiXhosa initiation season, Abakwethas can be seen in the rural areas, donning white and red blankets with painted faces, as they complete their right of passage from boyhood to manhood.

3. Architecture

East London is filled with beautiful architecture from our stunning City Hall to our rural traditional Xhosa huts. Take a drive down Oxford Street in our CBD as well as the many rural areas surrounding the city and experience our rich and multicultural architectural heritage.

4. Antiques and Collectables

Browse East London’s numerous Antique & Collectables shops stocked with a diverse range of furniture and many other beautiful items: Vincent Station Furniture (082 789 5500), Morways Antiques & Collectables, Kim’s Corner, and The Bright Beetle in Kidd’s Beach.

5. Appreciate the work of our local artists

An art museum and gallery, the Ann Bryant Art Gallery (043 722 4044) is housed in a beautiful Victorian Building and has a stunning permanent collection of South African art from the 1920’s to the present day.

Floradale Fine Art (078 294 7252) features work from Eastern Cape-based artists and there are numerous interesting pieces using the disciplines of Painting, Drawing, Printing, Sculpture and Collage.

Driftwood Studios (083 479 2750) is a piece of paradise where sculptor George Kockott works, lives and has his gallery.

6. Aquarium and Whale Viewing Deck

A visit to South Africa’s oldest Aquarium (043 705 2637) is a must, offering visitors some stunning and unique displays. Enjoy the daily seal show or help feed the resident penguins! Enjoy beautiful scenery from the Ocean Viewing Deck and, if you are very lucky, you might get to see some of the whales that visit our coastline during during the months August to November.

7. Areena Riverside Resort

This beautiful holiday resort is absolutely magical and must not be missed. Located in a private game reserve, Areena Riverside Resort (043 734 3055) boasts an adventure village with fun activities ranging from abseiling, ziplines and quad biking to archery and pellet gun shooting. You can also take in the sights and sounds of this wonderful area onboard a relaxing river cruise. While you are there, don’t forget to have a relaxing massage at the Areena Spa and Wellness Centre.

8. Avalon Market

On the first Sunday of every month, the Avalon Market is held out at Kidd’s Beach. This Craft & Country Market has live music, delicious market food, pony rides, face painting & sand art for the kids, all in a beautiful tranquil setting.

9. A Wild Coast Charter with AV8 Helicopters

Charter an AV8 Helicopter (043 736 1660) for a Wild Coast aerial adventure. Travel from East London up to Coffee Bay and view our wild unspoilt coastline from the air. An adventure you will never forget.

10. Badminton @ Nutting Hall

Visit the home of Border Badminton East London, Nutting Hall, across the road from Sterling high school to watch or take part in an energetic game of Badminton.

11. Bars & Pubs

Looking for something to slack that thirst? Head to one of the many bars & pubs in the city. Abbotsford Arms, 57 on Pearce, Sunsets on Beach, Buccaneers are just some of the pubs available in the city.

12. Bass Fishing at Bridal Drift Dam

An artificial lake on the Buffalo River, Bridal Drift Dam (043 764 9304/084 600 5432) has been reclaimed from the water hyacinth and is now a great spot for large bass fishing. If you’d prefer to be on the water than on the banks then boating and wind surfing can also be enjoyed there.

13. Beach Cleanup & Free Coffee @ The Reef Cafe

The Reef Cafe is offering a plastic bag and a free coffee to all visitors who use that bag to pick up the garbage and plastic on our beaches. This triple whammy (walk, garbage & free coffee) is an offer too good to miss!

14. Beach Road, Nahoon

Beach Road is a ‘destination’ filled with eateries of every kind from vegan to meat restaurants, sandwich bars to sugary delights, and everything in between. This bustling street is alive with visitors looking to grab a tasty meal. Take a drive, you won’t be disappointed.

15. Bowls

Lawn bowls is extremely popular in East London with many venues scattered around the city. Here are just some of the many facilities in and around the city: Beacon Bay Country Club, Bonza Bay Bowling Club, Old Selbornian Club, Cambridge Bowls Club SA, Typos Bowling Club and Nahoon Mouth Bowling Club.

16. BRCCC

Head to Buff’s Club for some high-speed radio controlled car racing at the BRCCC club. Watch the high speed action as they run different classes of cars on their racing track.

17. Caddy Shack Mashie Golf @ Python Park

Enjoy a round of 9-hole mashie golf with the whole family at the Caddy Shack Mashie Golf Club @ Python Park. Afterwards you can grab a bite to eat and something cold and wet, at the Caddy Shack Clubhouse.

18. Calgary Transport Museum

The Calgary Transport Museum, a satellite of the East London Museum, features a collection of carts, wagons and handcarts from the Border region, acquired and restored by the late Robin Wells. Also on show are a gypsy caravan, a tack room and a wheelwright’s workshop and forge.

19. Camping at ‘Yellows’

You have the beauty of the seafront, tidal river and natural vegetation all in one at Yellow Sands. It is a wonderful place for a camping holiday where you can spend time on the beautiful beach or boating on the Kwelera River. It also boasts one of the top rated surf spots in the area if you prefer to surf, body board or wave ski. 043 734 3043.

20. Canoeing & Kayaking

The Nahoon River is home to the Border Canoe Club and is a popular river for Canoeing. The city is also the home of Fenn, the iconic international kayak brand. Built on four rivers, there is ample opportunity to enjoy this water sport on the sea, or dams or one of our many rivers.

21. Casinos

Fancy a little flutter? Then head to Hemingways Casin o (043 707 7777) in Dorchester Heights, a place with a touch of Key West charm or Galaxy Bingo (087 150 2407) in Gonubie for an evening of upmarket gambling and entertainment. If you are in the CBD, head to Bingo Royale, the newest Bingo Hall in East London and the first to ever be given a licence in the city.

22. Chintsa Horses

Enjoy this beautiful, ecological environment on horseback with the renowned Chintsa Horses (043 738 5141). This half-day trail is half beach and half bush, and you will not only have the opportunity to view an abundance of bird life, but bush buck and duiker too.

23. Cocktails & Sundowners

If you enjoy a great cocktail, there are many places in and around the city where you can indulge. Cafe Neo on the Esplanade has a fully stocked bar and a great sea view to boot. OhMi Gin Bar @ Hemingways is where the hip and happening crowd meet, and don’t forget Thyme Fusion Gin Bar & Eatery in Abbotsford, for the more intimate experience.

For the perfect sundowner experience, head to the Highlander Bar at the Blue Lagoon Hotel in Beacon Bay and watch the sun set over the stunning Nahoon River and Mouth.

24. Coffee Break!

There is nothing better than a great cup of coffee. Hit the many wonderful coffee shops in and around the city. From cappuccino’s and latte’s to espresso and a good old ‘boere koffee’, a day without coffee is just not worth contemplating. Here is our Guide 2 Coffee Shops & Cafes in East London.

25. Craft breweries

Table 58 is a stunning craft brewery situated in the luscious gardens of the Floradale Garden Centre in Beacon Bay. Offering great craft beer, a good value for money menu, a large outdoor deck and local entertainment, this has become a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

Situated on the rolling hills on the beautiful East Coast near Chintsa, Emerald Vale Brewery offers four delicious hand-crafted local beers, that are legend in this area. This family friendly brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating in a serene country setting.

26. Cricket at Buffalo Park

Take the whole family and enjoy a day or a day-night game at Buffalo Park, the home of cricket in East London.

27. Croquet (St Andrews Club)

Yes, East London also has a Croquet Club! Visit the St Andrews Croquet Club on the grounds of the East London Golf Club, and enjoy a game of this uniquely British leisurely pastime.

28. Cruise our local waters

Experience scenic views from the waves on a harbour coastal or river cruise with Southern Cross Cruises (073 257 2319). Heighten your senses as you ferry down the Buffalo River or out of the harbour port and down the East London coastline.

Enjoy a Dolphin & Whale Watching cruise during the whale season, and experience the greatest show on earth, when the Annual Sardine Run hits our shores in May/Jun each year.

Dolphin & Whale Watching cruises with Southern Cross Cruises

29. Deep Sea Fishing

Charter a trip at the East London Ski Boat Club and head out to sea for a day of deep sea fishing. Whether it be bottom species or in season game fish, our coastal waters offer it all.

30. Dine out at East London’s Top Restaurants

If great food is what you want … great food is what you will get. This city has a multitude of restaurants to suit your culinary cravings. Here is our A – Z Restaurant Guide to Eating Out in East London.

Cantina & Craft (Beacon Bay Crossing)

31. Drifters Raceway Theme Park

If you like action then head to Drifters Raceway Theme Park for some go-karting, paintball, volleyball, quad-biking and team building.

32. East London Museum

Established in 1921, the East London Museum (043 743 0686) is considered to be one of the most interesting natural and cultural history museums in South Africa! A visit is an absolute must to see a diverse range of fine exhibits including the Coelacanth specimen, a fish previously believed to have become extinct some 80 million years ago! Keep an eye open for their very popular ‘Night at the museum’ events.

33. East London’s music scene

East London is renowned for hosting some big names in music, be it homegrown, national or international. Head to one of the music venues in the city, you’ll be blown away by talent and calibre of the showcased artists.

Check out The Venue@Hemingways (043 707 7777), The Guild Theatre (043 743 0704), and Legends Showcase Venue (043 721 2794).

Keep up to date with the current events by visiting the ShowMe East London Events & Entertainment Page.

34. East London Zoo

Stroll through indigenous and exotic vegetation when you visit the East London Zoo and Queens Park Zoological Gardens (043 742 5386), home to a wide range of mammals, numerous birds and reptiles. Special night tours and ‘behind the scene’ tours can also be arranged with advanced notice.

35. Ebuhlanti

Ebuhlanti is situated on the Esplanade and is a popular break and hang out spot for locals and visitors alike. On the weekends, many people make this their first stop, taking the opportunity to meet up with their friends and make plans for the evening and weekend.

36. Electric Avenue

Located inside Hemingways Mall you will find Electric Avenue (043 726 9727), an exciting venue for both adults and kids with a gaming arcade, bowling alley, action bar, dodgem cars, action karting and X-rider.

37. Environmental Education @ Santa Paloma

If permaculture, vermiculture, carbon footprint, recycling, medicinal plants & indigenous trees are of interest to you, a visit to the beautiful Santa Paloma Guest Game Farm and Eco-Centre is a must. Learn more about the importance of going green in a stunning natural environment.

38. Epsom Road

Epsom Road in Sterling has recently become a little foodie node where you can have a meal, grab a coffee and light breakfast or lunch, grab a healthy juice alternative, or even indulge in some great comfort food. There are also many ‘take-away’ options making this a great destination for those who do not like to cook.

Grab a breakfast or light lunch at Madisons Market Cafe, a great meal or take away from Nina Deli, some Chinese from Xiao Ma’s Kitchen, some yummy roti from The Cinnamon Stick, a bacon & cheese roosterkoek from Doug., or a delicious juice from Earth Forest.

39. Events Calendar

There are many events that happen throughout the year from wine shows and lifestyle expo’s to sporting events and charity fund raisers. Keep your eye on our Events Calendar to ensure that you do not miss out on any of the fun.

40. Famous Giant Inkwenkwezi Burger

Wednesday nights is burger night at Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve. Any guesses as to why there burgers are world famous? Bookings are essential.

41. Farmstalls & Padstals

The Eastern Cape is well-renowned for its Farmstall Coffee Shops and the following ones should definitely be on your list to visit: The PineCreek Farmstall (043 732 1101) and Lavender Blue (043 732 1172) are two you must not miss. If you are travelling on Route 72 between East London and Port Elizabeth, be sure to schedule stops at all the fabulous Padstals, Farm Stores & Craft markets along the way. On the Friendly N6, stop it at The Wagon Wheel for their famous pies and crisp delicious pineapple juice!

42. Floradale Nursery & Country Shopping Centre

If you want a great getaway right here in the city, Floradale Nursery is a must visit. Tucked away from the madding crowd, this little gem not only has an outstanding nursery, but a lovely local art gallery showcasing local artistic talent. Once you have done all your shopping, head to Saffron Family Kitchen or the Cafe de Jardin for some great coffee or a meal. Both venues offer great play areas for the children. If you have worked up a thirst, head to Table 58 for an ice cold craft beer.

43. Foodie delights @ Ginger&Co

If you are a foodie, nothing comes close to all the delicious goodies served at Ginger&Co in Selborne. Chef’s extraordinaire, Benji & Estie Gane run the best eatery in the Eastern Cape. If you are on a diet… don’t go!

44. Food Trucks

Fridays herald the arrival of the extremely popular Skinny G Food Truck evenings where you can grab gourmet ‘take-aways’ from the local food truck vendors. This is a great family outing, not to be missed.

45. Football @ Sisa Dukashe Stadium

Watch the premier division play the beautiful game amidst roaring fans and vuvuzelas at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, the 2nd largest township in South Africa.

46. Footprints @ the MBSA Visitors Centre

The MBSA Coastal Education & Visitors Centre is designed in the shape of a footprint and is located in the beautiful Nahoon Point Reserve. Known locally as ‘Footprints’, this is the site at which human and animal trace fossil track-ways were discovered in 1964 by Bill Hartley and Rhett Kaiser. The sandstone at this site has been dated to an age of 124 000 years, making the human fossil track-way discovered here, the world’s oldest archaic human fossil footprints on the planet.

47. Fort Jackson Smiley (skull kop) Market

Channel your inner Andrew Zimmern and head to the Fort Jackson Smiley (skull top) Market opposite the Fort Jackson Police Precinct, where you can dine on the local cuisine – a boiled sheeps head, charred on the open fire.

48. Friesland Mik Bar

Indulge in an iconic East London product! Friesland Milk Bar (Quigney 043 722 3260/Hemingways 043 721 2809) sell ice-creams and milkshakes in over 20 different mouth watering flavours and certainly lives up to its slogan “Your Guarantee of Goodness”.

49. Game Drives @ Mpongo Private Game Reserve

Experience a sunrise, mid-morning or sunset game drive at Mpongo Private Game Reserve (043 742 9000), a magnificent reserve on 3500 of conservancy land in the heart of the Eastern Cape. Also home to elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe and numerous antelope and bird species, this is a must for visitors to East London.

50. Game of golf at the East London Golf Club

Many of history’s top golfing champions have played on the beautiful fairways of the East London Golf Club (043 735 1356) which is regarded as one every golfer should play. Set amongst hills, dunes and coastal indigenous botany, this golf club is also home to a family of impala and many species of birdlife.

51. Get hitched!

Choose one of East London’s many beautiful Wedding Venues for your special day. From farms and rusty barns, to up market glitzy glamour, bridal couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a venue for their momentous occasion.

52. Gonubie Beachfront Beautification Project

Take a walk or drive along Deary Lane at Gonubie Point and look at all the beautiful art projects created by one local artist, intent on creating interest in this naturally beautiful area.

53. Gravity Indoor Trampoline Park

Bounce off those lockdown kilos at the Gravity Indoor Trampoline Park, situated at The Crossing in Beacon Bay. This venue offers something for everyone from the kiddies play area to the coffee bar and snack shop, perfect for parents who need a break from looking after their kids.

54. Gyms

East Londoners are known for their fitness and love of all things physical. Visit one of the many gyms in the city. Virgin Active, Curves, Body Classique, Crossfit and Body Culture are some options, to name but a few.

55. Hood Point Lighthouse & West Bank Golf Course

The Hood Point Lighthouse (Office Hours: 043 700 3056) was commissioned in 1890 and is situated on the West Bank between a the stunning seaside West Bank Golf Course on one side, and an imposing cemetery on the other. Visitors are welcome.

56. Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve

Head to Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve for a unique bush getaway and stay in their beautiful tented camp overlooking the African bush. This private game reserve offers unique bush accommodation, game drives, horse riding and quad biking, as well as their famous gigantic Wednesday evening burgers.

57. Joan Harrison Complex

If sand and sea are not your thing, the Joan Harrison Complex (043 726 7066) has great water facilities for the whole family including full length pools, diving pools, water polo pools and kiddies pools, all situated in a beautiful garden setting.

58. Khaya La Bantu Cultural Village

Take a unique tour of the Khaya La Bantu Cultural Village and meet a vibrant group of local Xhosa people, in their traditional home setting. Watch an inspiring and energetic welcome dance, be part of a beer tasting ceremony, learn about the life of the sangomas (healers) and enjoy a traditional Xhosa meal. 043 851 1011/083 891 1336.

59. Kiddies Play Areas

If you are looking for somewhere to take the kids, there are plenty of places that cater for the little ones. Bubble Jungle at The Crossing in Beacon Bay, is an indoor venue, perfect for those rainy days. Vincent Shopping Mall has a free outdoor play area for this little ones, and parents can grab a cuppa or meal at one of the eateries while you keep an eye on your little ones. Electric Avenue at Hemingways Mall also caters for the little ones with fun arcade games and activities designed for all ages, including the little ones. Pinecreek is a kiddies wonderland offering a large outdoor kiddies play area, the Pinecreek Railway Station and rides on the Pinecreek Express train. There is also plenty for the parents to do while the kiddies play.

60. Lavender Blue

Lavender Blue (043 732 1172) has a wide range of fun things on offer. Treat yourself to a delicious meal or tasty snack inside their coffee shop/restaurant, browse their food stalls for local produce or shop at the curio store where you are sure to find something you love. At the same venue you can also enjoy strawberry picking (seasonal), shop for plants in their lovely garden nursery, indulge in a spa treatment or break a sweat on their cycle track. Oh, and let’s not forget the play area for the kids.

61. Lindale Farm

Just outside of East London you will find Lindale Farm (082 415 2791), an animal and bird edu-fun farm. This is a great place to take the kids where they can learn all about the local animals and view the baby birds getting their daily feeding! This venue is open by appointment only.

62. Lion Park

Don’t leave your camera at home because East London’s Lion Park (043 730 7161) has an amazing number of animals to view. Enter the pen with the rare white lion cubs, feed buck from the palm of your hand and experience an adult lion feeding frenzy! The venue also has picnic facilities and an onsite coffee shop.

63. Marlene Neumann’s Centre for Photography & Light

Visit Marlene Neumann’s Centre for Photography & Light (083 321 3391) where you can view her incredible photographs that reflect the wonder of Africa. Marlene’s photographs range from wildlife to landscapes and intimate images – you are bound to fall in love with at least one piece so make sure you have space in your suitcase to take it back home!

64. Mel’s Fun Farm

Mel’s Fun Farm is an exclusive venue for children’s birthday parties and school and group outings (by appointment only). The venue is open to the public on the LAST Saturday of each month, excluding December.

65. Microlighting

Experience the thrill of soaring like a bird when you take a microlight flight over East London and the surrounding coastal areas. Contact Clinton Philip (082 857 9405) for more information.

66. Minature Train @ East London Show Grounds

The East London Model Engine Society runs a miniature train on the 2nd Sunday of every month at the East London Show Grounds. Take the kids and join in the fun.

67. Motor Racing @ East London Grand Prix Circuit

This historical South African Grand Prix Circuit is one of the few remaining original GP circuits in the world. It hosts club, regional and national motor/motorcycle road racing, go-karting, super moto, drifting and drag racing events. Visit the Border Motorsport Club for further details on up and coming events to be held at the East London Grand Prix Circuit.

68. Mountain Bike Trails

There are plenty of mountain bike trails in and around the city so fans will not be at a loss when trying to find a new and challenging trail.

69. Movies@Hemingways

If the weather is not so great and you need an outing, why not head to Movies@Hemingways. Situated in the Hemingways Casino & Entertainment area, you can enjoy a great movie, a bite to eat and even a bit of a flutter if the urge so takes you.

70. Mtombo’s Palace The Restro Lounge in Mdantsane

Mtombo’s Palace is a vibrant venue in the heart of Mdantsane offering a restaurant, bar and live entertainment area. This is the beating heart of Mdantsane and the perfect venue for a unique and enjoyable township experience.

71. Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve

The Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve is a must visit for all nature lovers. Situated on the North-East bank of the Nahoon River Mouth, the estuary is comprised of over 25 hectares of uniquely preserved coastal land in the heart of Beacon Bay. Do the Dassie Trail or stroll along the boardwalk until you reach the beach.

72. OHmi Gin Bar

Enjoy the wide range of entertainment, the fantastic music, the delicious food and the beautiful people at OHmi Gin Bar in Hemingways Mall, East London’s premier evening hotspot.

73. Olivewood Private Estate & Golf Club

Situated on the Jikeleza Route, the Olivewood Golf Estate & Golf Club is an upmarket venue offering a beautiful 18 hole golf course, a boutique hotel, a number of eateries, an events facility and a kiddies play area. An upmarket destination for the discerning guest.

74. Orient Beach Complex

The Orient Beach Complex is a pay beach on East London’s main beachfront, the Esplanade. The couplex offers access to the Orient Beach, the Orient Pier & Lighthouse, the swimming pools and picnic areas. A lovely outdoor venue for the whole family.

75. Orient Pier & Lighthouse

Enjoy a leisurely stroll down the Orient Pier to the Orient Lighthouse at the entrance to the Port of East London. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the lovely views of the sea and esplanade from this unique vantage point.

76. Parkruns

The Eastern Cape is renowned for its outdoor pursuits and one of the favourites must be the Parkruns. These are held in various locations every Saturday morning and participation is absolutely free! Join one of the many park runs in and around the city. All Parkruns are followed by an optional delicious breakfast at a local eatery.

77. Pecan Valley Farm

Go on an awesome journey at Pecan Valley Farm (083 457 6710/083 460 5963), just outside of East London. This venue is ideal for peace and relaxation with spectacular views and wildlife including bird life, duiker, bushbuck, hare and bushpig. It also offers many outdoor pursuits including hiking, bass fishing, mountain biking and golf.

78. Pinecreek Restaurant, Farmstall & Kiddies Playground

Shop in the farmstall or enjoy a delicious meal while the kids run wild in the children’s playground and ride the Pinecreek Express. Pinecreek is a stunning, unique venue and is a must visit for all families.

79. Prana Lodge

Indulge yourself in 5 Star luxury accommodation at the multiple award winning Prana Lodge & Spa, situated amongst the lush coastal flora, in Chintsa East. This world class accommodation is the go-to destination for many famous international visitors, looking to get away from it all.

80. Salty Hour @ Gonubie

In the summer months, join a group of passionate surfers in Gonubie sharing the stoke of being in the water and having fun. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for times.

81. Stock Car mayhem at the Summerpride Oval

If petrol courses through your veins, don’t miss out on the excitement, speed and mayhem of a Border stock car race at the Summerpride Oval.

82. Sushi

If you are looking to indulge in some sumptuous, beautifully crafted sushi, you are spoilt for choice. Here is a list of our Sushi Hot Spots in and around East London.

83. School Rugby Derby

East London boasts some of the top schools in South Africa and school rugby is huge with rugby derby days attracting many visitors to our city. Enjoy the atmosphere when local school Selborne College takes on some of South Africa’s titan school rugby teams such as Grey College, Queens College and Dale College.

84. Shamrock Pies

You can’t leave East London without having tasted our iconic Shamrock Pies. Known all over the Eastern Cape for their delicious pastery and generous fillings, we guarantee that whichever pie you choose, you won’t be disappointed. From steak to chicken tandoori, Shamrock Pies are unique, FULL of flavour and you can buy them from all leading supermarkets.

85. Shop till you drop!

East London boasts numerous shopping complexes including Hemingways Mall, Vincent Park Shopping Centre, Balfour Park Shopping Centre, Beacon Bay Crossing, China Mall (located in CBD and Beacon Bay) and Beacon Bay Retail Park. Shop till you drop and then grab a coffee or have a bite to eat at one of the numerous food outlets.

86. Spas

Spoil yourself with a relaxing Thai Spa experience in beautiful surroundings at the upmarket, award wining Prana Lodge & Spa in Chintsa. In the city, Emerald Spa in the Premier Hotel EL ICC, is situated on the East London Esplanade and one can enjoy an indulgent massage ‘experience’… designed to drain away all the stress of the day. These are just two of the many spa’s available in and around East London. Don’t forget, spa treats are also ranked as one of the best gifts you can give someone you care about.

87. Scuba Diving the Three Sisters

Experience the thrill of a scuba dive with Octo Divers (084 226 3483) at the Three Sisters, one of East London’s most renowned diving sites.

88. Steven Biko Garden of Remembrance

Bantu Steven Biko, one of the most recognised leaders of the Black Consciousness Movement, is regarded as one of the greatest martyrs of the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa. The grave site where Steve Biko is buried became known as the Steven Biko Garden of Remembrance (formerly known as the Ginsberg cemetery) and is situated in King Williams Town 52 kms north of East London.

89. Surfing Nahoon Reef

Whether you are a pro surfer or simply Kamakazi, Nahoon Reef is known for its excellent breaks . If you’re on a quest for the perfect wave, we think that you might just find it here. We do however recommend you surf with the locals who will give you important information on the local conditions.

90. Tattoo’s and body piercings

Ever fancied getting a tattoo or body piercing done? There are plenty of places should you decide to bite the bullet and go for it! Alien Station in Vincent – 043 726 4081/083 332 2639 or Body Graphix in Nahoon – 083 457 6202 are just two. All tattoo parlours specialise in tattoos and body piercing. Alien Station also has a diverse range of canvas and mosaic art on display.

91. Tea in the Trees!

On a Sunday, head to Tea in the Trees (072 611 2367) at Chintsa West. Here you can participate in Indi-YOGA under the trees, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast and then browse local produce at the weekly market. The forest walk is also stunning and well worth a stroll after that breakfast! Tea in the Trees regularly hosts children’s stage productions at their unique Forest Theatre as well as live music and themed evenings. This is a unique, must visit venue – one you will really enjoy.

92. Theatre

Enjoy a show at one of East London’s theatres, from ballets to music concerts there is something for everybody at these dynamic playhouses. Check our entertainment guide for what’s on at The Guild Theatre and the The Alexander Playhouse. To find out what is currently on show, visit the ShowMe East London Events & Entertainment Page.

93. Traditional Horse Racing Track in Berlin

One of the original horse racing tracks in South Africa, the Berlin Racing Track is coming back into it’s own as a traditional horse racing track and it’s annual Berlin November event includes traditional horse racing, fashion shows, arts & crafts as well as pre and post parties.

94. Township Tour

Let Velile from Imonti Tours (043 721 2082 / 083 487 8975) take you to Mdantsane Township, the second largest township in South Africa, after Soweto. Experience traditional culture when you visit a herbal shop, the local market, taxi rank and a local shebeen. Other tours available through Imonti – a historical tour of Mthatha – following the footsteps of the great Nelson Mandela; a city tour of the downtown East London – visiting the historical sites of a city that is the only river port in South Africa; a historical tour that takes you to the heritage of Amatole – an area around the Amatola Mountains which ranges from East London to Alice.

Siseko from Uncuthu Tours is another accredited tour guide and will take you on a unique adventure in the rural Eastern cape.

95. Treasure hunt the local beaches

Head down to one of the many stunning beaches in and around East London and ‘scan’ for treasures washed up by the sea or left behind by unsuspecting seaside visitors.

96. Venom Pit Snake Park

Specialising in African snakes, tortoises, monitors and frogs, a visit to the Venom Pit Snake Park (082 410 1852/083 285 0534) is a must. Enjoy live snake demonstrations from professionals and have your photo taken with some rather amazing reptiles.

97. Walks on the beach

East London straddles multiple rivers and the Indian Ocean, and boasts some of the best beaches South Africa has to offer. Put on some Sunblock, grab a hat, and take a leisurely stroll in the fresh sea air. Be careful, this might make you never want to leave.

98. Wild Coast Jikeleza Route

Stretching from Beacon Bay in East London, all the way along the East Coast to Cefane, the Wild Coast Jikeleza Route is East London’s premier tourist route. Packed full of adventure, stunning views, delicious eateries and amazing arts & crafts, you cannot visit this area without visiting the Wild Coast Jikeleza Route.

99. Windmill Roadhouse

The Windmill Roadhouse (043 722 9208) in Quigney is perhaps one of East London’s most well known fast-food takeaway joints. Renowned for their delicious slap chips (for the visitor, slap chips are hot chips drenched in naughty oily, vinegary goodness!), you won’t want to leave East London without getting a takeaway (or two!) from this iconic destination.

100. Xhosa Beadwork & Clothing

Visit the Eastern Cape Craft Collection shop at The Crossing in Beacon Bay, and support the local traditional crafters by purchasing some beautiful isiXhosa cultural clothing and beadwork.