Jeffreys Bay

A world-renowned surf destination with consistent waves attracting surfers globally, and the annual Billabong Pro competition. Beyond surfing, it offers beautiful beaches, a welcoming beach town atmosphere, and good accommodation options.

Things to do

• Supertubes Beach — Watch or surf the legendary right-hand point break that hosts the annual Billabong Pro competition and attracts world-class surfers year-round.
• Billabong Pro Competition — Attend the iconic professional surfing event held annually (typically July) where elite surfers compete on Supertubes in front of thousands of spectators.
• Kabeljous Beach — Explore a scenic sandy beach suitable for swimming and relaxation, offering a quieter alternative to the main surf breaks.
• Mossel Bay Day Trip — Take a short drive to nearby Mossel Bay to visit the Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse, explore the harbor, and enjoy fresh seafood at the waterfront.
• Surf School Experience — Join a local surf school for beginner or intermediate lessons at nearby breaks, with qualified instructors teaching proper technique and safety.
• Dolphin and Whale Watching — Take a boat tour along the Eastern Cape coast (seasonal, June to November) to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Town Center Stroll — Walk through the beach town's main avenue lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants showcasing local art, crafts, and coastal culture.

Food to try

• Fresh Fish and Chips — A quintessential coastal meal of locally caught fish battered and fried, served with crispy chips and eaten at beachside venues or take-away shops.
• Snoek Fish Preparation — Try snoek, a seasonal South African fish popular from May to July, typically grilled or smoked and served with lemon and local vegetables.
• Braai (Barbecue) — Experience a traditional South African braai where meat, fish, and vegetables are grilled outdoors, a central part of local beach culture and social gatherings.
• Seafood Paella — Several local restaurants serve Spanish-inspired seafood paella incorporating fresh catches from the Indian Ocean and local produce.
• Crayfish (Lobster) Tail — Enjoy fresh South African crayfish, a luxury seafood delicacy typically grilled or served in creamy sauce at upmarket beachfront restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Lineup Culture — If surfing, follow strict unwritten rules about respecting local surfers' priority and waiting your turn; disregarding this can result in tension or being asked to leave the water.
• Summer and Wind Patterns — The best surf conditions occur in autumn and winter (March to September); summer months are warmer but often windier and less ideal for quality waves.
• Friendly Beach Town Vibe — Locals are welcoming but casual; greeting people with a simple 'howzit' (how are you) and respecting personal space while maintaining a laid-back attitude fits the town's relaxed surfer culture.
• Safety Awareness — Keep valuables secure, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious of petty theft; the town is generally safe but standard travel precautions apply.

Nearby

• Port Elizabeth — 79 km
• Tsitsikamma National Park — 93 km
• Storms River — 98 km
• Addo Elephant National Park — 129 km