St Francis

St Francis Quick Travel Guide

Why go?
Made up of four separate areas; Cape St Francis, St Francis Bay, Oyster Bay and Port St Francis, this is a stunning part of the Eastern Cape. The scenery of all four areas of St Francis is magnificent and each area has its own unique beauty spots and with a navigable river and canal system, fantastic beaches and great surfing conditions there is certainly plenty to enjoy in St Francis. 
 
With a certain village charm setting it apart from other coastal areas of the Eastern Cape there are also a good number of restaurants and shops and the quiet, peaceful and unspoilt surrounds make the Eastern Cape region of St Francis a lovely place to go for a relaxing break.
 
Who for?
The St Francis region is a great destination for couples and families. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy lazy afternoons and the beaches and water sports will keep the kids entertained. 
 
When?
With its temperate climate St Francis is a good year round destination. The peak months of December and January are fairly busy and you will need to book St Francis accommodation in advance during this period but it is a good time to visit if you enjoy hot sunny days. February tends to be quieter but still enjoys good weather and winter is mild, although if you want to be in the water it may be a little cold for that!
 
How long?
How long to spend in St Francis depends on what you would like to experience on your visit. You could easily spend a few days exploring the different areas and if all you want to do is relax in idyllic surroundings, then another few days will be needed. 2-3 days is a good basic amount of time for exploring the St Francis area though.
 
Must see/do?
  • Visit St Francis Bay – home to some amazing beaches and great water sports facilities this is the place to unwind on the beach, enjoy the sea and simply relax. From St Francis Bay you can also get to the Kromme River estuary, where the canal system begins and there are some lovely places to stay right at the water’s edge.
  • Beach horse riding is very popular in St Francis Bay and makes for a fun active day out. 
  • Head to Cape St Francis and explore the lighthouse and the Ajubatus Penguin Rescue Centre – great fun for both grown-ups and kids.
  • Tee-off at one of the many great golf courses in the area.
  • Visit the little hamlet of Oyster Bay (accessed over dirt tracks and about 15km west of Cape St Francis). There is some great fishing to be found here and nearby sandboarding can be enjoyed in the dunes.
  • Spend the night at Port St Francis and enjoy the little restaurants and cafes in this picturesque working port as you watch the boats come and go.