Driving in Port Elizabeth
Driving in Port Elizabeth is a great way to get around to the multitude of attractions the city has to offer. Port Elizabeth, (PE), is known as the Friendly City and also the The Windy City. Despite the wind, it has one of the best coastal city climates in the world and is regarded as South Africas watersports mecca. If you enjoy the beach and water activities youll probably want to do a lot of driving to the fantastic beaches on offer. The weather and water are temperate all year round and people descend on PE to surf, swim, sail, dive, and body board. Kitesurfing, windsurfing and sandboarding are also popular due to the good winds and natural sand dunes. PE is host to three blue flag beaches; Humewood Beach, Hobie Beach and Kings Beach.
If youre keen to spend time in nature or get some exercise that doesnt include getting wet, grab a map, some takkies (trainers), and jump in your car for a few short drives which will enrich your PE experience. There are many scenic hiking trails, catering for the occasionally-active to the super-fit. Horse riding on the beach (and some of the nature trails) can be arranged. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is on offer at the Seaview Lion Park where youll not only have the chance to practise your game-spotting, but spend one on one time playing with lion cubs. For golf enthusiasts, there is also plenty of golfing available-Humewood Golf Course is one of the top ten golf courses in South Africa.
There are a number of wonderful nature and game reserves well worth visiting. If bird-watching is your thing, make sure you visit the Cape Recife Nature Reserve. Plan to stay a night (or more!) at the famous Addo Elephant Park and see if you can spot the Big Five. The Chelsea Conservancy is a beautiful indigenous area a few kilometres outside of PE. It is surrounded by nature reserves including the Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve and Sylvic Nature Reserve and Bushy Park. There are a number of scenic trails to walk and sea vistas to savour in the area covered by these reserves.
When driving in Port Elizabeth, make sure to stop and tour the Bayworld Museum Complex, one of the citys main tourist attractions; right on the beachfront. The Bayworld museums focus is on cultural and natural history. There are some noteworthy exhibits to see, including a skeleton of a 15m Southern Right whale. The Oceanarium has daily dolphin and seal shows, the Snake Park houses some rare species and does daily demonstrations, and the 7 Castle Street Museum offers a historical wander through an old Settler cottage. Another popular attraction is the Donkin Heritage Trail, a 5km walk in the footsteps of the 1820 settlers, right in central PE. There are ample shopping venues and many wonderful restaurants at which to rest and eat. Dont miss the Boardwalk Casino in Summerstrand which offers much shopping and entertainment. Enjoy sundowners on the beachfront with a magnificent view.
When compared with many other cities, driving in Port Elizabeth is a breeze. Locals call it a 20 minute city, meaning you can drive anywhere you want in about 20 minutes. Whether in PE or exploring its outskirts, there is lots to do and fantastic places to put your feet up and take in the view.For all your car hire needs around South Africa, contact the award winning Woodford Car & Bakkie Hire.