Port Saint Johns Travel & Accommodation Guide

Port Saint Johns occupies a unique position where the Mzimvubu River meets the Indian Ocean, creating a landscape of steep forested hills and rocky coastline. The town serves as a gateway to the Wild Coast, a stretch of South Africa's eastern seaboard that remains largely undeveloped. Two distinctive hills, known as the Gates, frame the river mouth and have become the area's most recognizable landmarks.

The beaches near Port Saint Johns attract experienced surfers from around the world. Second Beach produces consistent swells and hosts regular surfing competitions, while Third Beach offers a more sheltered environment. The coastline here demands respect, with strong currents and occasional shark activity requiring swimmers to exercise caution. Local authorities maintain shark nets at certain beaches during peak season.

The surrounding region is home to Pondo communities who have lived here for centuries. Visitors can arrange guided tours to nearby villages to learn about traditional practices, beadwork, and the area's complex history. The Silaka Nature Reserve, located upstream along the Mzimvubu River, protects indigenous forest and provides hiking trails through the gorge. Birdwatchers frequently spot rare species including the palmnut vulture and various sunbird species.

Port Saint Johns accommodation ranges from backpacker lodges to guesthouses and self-catering cottages, many positioned on the hillsides overlooking the river or ocean. The town itself maintains a slow pace, with basic shops, a few restaurants, and limited infrastructure. The nearest major centre is Mthatha, approximately 90 kilometres inland along a winding mountain road that takes about two hours to drive.

The climate here is subtropical, with warm humid summers and mild winters. Rain falls throughout the year but peaks during summer months. The remote location means visitors should come prepared, as ATM facilities can be unreliable and fuel stations are limited. Mobile phone coverage is inconsistent outside the town centre. This isolation forms part of the area's appeal for those seeking an authentic Wild Coast experience away from conventional tourist routes.