East London, South Africa Travel Guide

Discover East London, South Africa's coastal treasure, where pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture come together for an unforgettable travel experience.

East London, located on the southeastern coast of South Africa, is a charming city known for its stunning beaches and warm hospitality. With the Indian Ocean waves lapping at its shores, East London offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that makes it a must-visit destination. The city is home to some of the best beaches in South Africa, including Nahoon Beach and Gonubie Beach, which are perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The East London Coast Nature Reserve offers a chance to explore the region's indigenous flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. East London also boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. The East London Museum, which houses the coelacanth, a prehistoric fish thought to be extinct, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The city’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture, food, and festivals, providing a colorful and enriching experience for visitors. For those looking to experience local life, the bustling markets and eateries offer a taste of traditional South African cuisine. Whether you're strolling along the scenic beachfront or exploring the urban heart of the city, East London promises an unforgettable adventure.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring East London.

Visit Nahoon Beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise.
Check out the East London Museum for a unique look at the prehistoric coelacanth.
Take a day trip to the East London Coast Nature Reserve for scenic hiking trails.
Try the local seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants for a true taste of the region.
Explore the local markets to find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Join a guided tour to learn more about the city's history and cultural significance.

Explore East London: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in East London

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Ebuhlanti

Explore the natural beauty of Ebuhlanti Park in East London, a tranquil escape for relaxation and outdoor activities in the heart of nature.

3.9

Python Park Mashie Golf Course

Discover Python Park Mashie Golf Course in East London, a scenic golfing retreat perfect for all skill levels, surrounded by nature's beauty.

4.5

East London Museum

Explore the East London Museum, where South African heritage and natural history come together in a captivating experience for tourists.

4.4

Gonubie Boardwalk

Explore the breathtaking Gonubie Boardwalk in East London, a scenic coastal pathway perfect for strolls, wildlife spotting, and soaking up the sun.

4.4

Best landmarks in East London

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Hemingways Casino

Explore the thrilling gaming and diverse entertainment options at Hemingways Casino in East London, a must-visit hub for tourists.

4.2

Python Park Mashie Golf Course

Experience the serene beauty of Python Park Mashie Golf Course in East London, where nature and golfing come together for an unforgettable day.

4.5

East London Museum

Explore the East London Museum, a captivating destination showcasing the rich cultural heritage and history of the Eastern Cape.

4.3

Gonubie Boardwalk

Explore the stunning Gonubie Boardwalk in East London, a beautiful coastal escape perfect for walks, birdwatching, and breathtaking sunsets.

4.4

Best restaurants in East London

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Windmill Roadhouse

Experience delicious local and international cuisine at Windmill Roadhouse in East London – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.4

Buccaneers

Discover Buccaneers: East London's premier restaurant and nightlife destination with stunning ocean views and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.2

Sanook Eatery

Experience authentic South African cuisine at Sanook Eatery in East London - where every meal tells a story.

4.5

Sea Spirit Fish Market Restaurant

Discover fresh seafood delights at Sea Spirit Fish Market Restaurant in East London—where every dish is a celebration of coastal cuisine.

4.3

Best bars in East London

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Buccaneers

Experience the vibrant nightlife of East London at Buccaneers, a bar and nightclub that promises an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and delicious food.

4.2

Table 58 Brewing

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and craft brews at Table 58 Brewing, East London's top bar and restaurant destination for tourists and locals alike.

4.5

Sunsets On Beach

Discover the perfect coastal escape at Sunsets On Beach, where vibrant nightlife meets stunning ocean views in East London.

4.4

Abbotsford Arms

Discover the lively Abbotsford Arms in East London, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.

4.1

Best nightclubs in East London

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Buccaneers

Discover the pulsating nightlife at Buccaneers, East London's premier night club, bar, and restaurant offering unforgettable entertainment.

4.2

DAVIDO PALACE

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Davido Palace, East London's premier club offering great music, vibrant ambiance, and exceptional service.

4.3

The Ritz

Experience the sophistication and vibrant ambiance of The Ritz, a premier lounge in East London, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

4.4

The Rhythm Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at The Rhythm Bar in East London, where music and culinary delights meet.

4.4

Best shops in East London

Top-rated picks

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Hemingways Mall

Explore Hemingways Mall: A shopping and entertainment haven in East London with diverse stores, dining, and fun for the whole family.

4.3

Beacon Bay Crossing

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Beacon Bay Crossing, East London's vibrant mall with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment.

4.1

Incredible Connection Hemmingways

Discover the ultimate electronics shopping experience at Incredible Connection Hemingways, East London - your one-stop destination for all tech needs.

4.2

Cellucity - Hemingways Mall

Explore Cellucity at Hemingways Mall for the latest mobile phones and expert repairs in East London, ensuring you're always connected on your travels.

4.8

Explore East London on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in East London, mapped for you.

East London Essentials

East London is located on the southeastern coast of South Africa in the Eastern Cape Province. The city is served by East London Airport (ELS), which offers direct flights from major South African cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Alternatively, visitors can reach East London by road via the N2 highway, which connects the city to Durban and Cape Town. Long-distance buses and car rentals are also available for those who prefer a scenic road trip.
East London has a variety of transportation options. The city has a reliable minibus taxi system, which is the most common mode of public transport. Metered taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. For those who wish to explore the city at their own pace, car rentals are readily accessible. Walking and cycling are convenient for short distances, especially along the scenic beachfront areas.
The official currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout East London, but it is wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies. International travelers can exchange their foreign currency at banks and exchange bureaus located in the city.
While East London is generally safe for tourists, it is important to remain vigilant and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas, and be cautious in crowded places where pickpocketing can occur. Some areas to be cautious of include Duncan Village and Mdantsane, which have higher crime rates. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
In case of emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance, 10177 for medical emergencies, or 112 from a mobile phone for general emergencies. East London has several well-equipped hospitals, including the East London Private Hospital and Cecilia Makiwane Hospital. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during your stay.
Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, especially in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your hat when entering. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using minibus taxis, as they can be crowded. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'howzit'. A handshake is common, but be aware of personal space. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as 'bunny chow' and 'braai'. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience East London like a local, visit the local markets such as the Esplanade Flea Market for unique crafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals at popular spots like Nahoon Beach and Gonubie Beach, which are perfect for surfing and picnicking. Don’t miss out on the East London Museum, home to the coelacanth, a rare fish thought to be extinct. For a unique experience, take a guided tour to the nearby Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve to see South Africa's wildlife up close.

When is the best time to visit East London?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for East London

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in East London. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHoezit
  [ho-zit]
- GoodbyeCheers
  [cheers]
- YesJa
  [ya]
- NoNee
  [nee]
- Please/You're welcomePleasure
  [pleh-zhuh]
- Thank youDankie
  [dahn-kee]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [saw-ree]
- How are you?Howsit
  [how-zit]
- Fine. And you?Lekker. En jy?
  [le-kuh. en y]
- Do you speak English?Can you speak Engels?
  [kan yoo speak eng-uhls]
- I don't understandEk verstaan nie
  [ek verstahn nee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil die spyskaart sien, asseblief
  [ek vil dee spay-skaart seen, us-suh-bleef]
- I don't eat meatEk eet nie vleis nie
  [ek ayt nee fleys nee]
- Cheers!Gesondheid!
  [guh-sund-hate]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEk wil betaal, asseblief
  [ek vil buh-taal, us-suh-bleef]
- Help!Hulp!
  [hulp]
- Go away!Gaan weg!
  [gahn vehg]
- Call the Police!Bel die Polisie!
  [bel dee poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Bel 'n dokter!
  [bel un dohk-tuh]
- I'm lostEk is verlore
  [ek is fuh-ruh-ruh]
- I'm illEk is siek
  [ek is seek]
- I'd like to buy...Ek wil koop...
  [ek vil kohp]
- I'm just lookingEk kyk net
  [ek kayk neht]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kos dit?
  [ho-veel kohs dit]
- That's too expensiveDit is te duur
  [dit is tuh dyoor]
- Can you lower the price?Kan jy die prys verlaag?
  [kan y die prays fuh-lahg]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
  [ho laht is dit]
- It's one o'clockDit is een uur
  [dit is ayn ur]
- Half past (10)Half tien
  [hahf teen]
- MorningOggend
  [oh-ghent]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [mid-ahg]
- EveningAand
  [ahnt]
- YesterdayGister
  [ghis-tuh]
- TodayVandag
  [fun-dahg]
- TomorrowMôre
  [moh-ruh]
- 1Een
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [twee]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Vyf
  [fayf]
- 6Ses
  [sehs]
- 7Sewe
  [seh-weh]
- 8Agt
  [ahg-t]
- 9Nege
  [nee-ye]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is 'n/die...?
  [vahr is un/dee]
- What's the address?Wat is die adres?
  [waht is dee uh-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan jy my wys (op die kaart)?
  [kan y may vays (op dee kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is die volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-neer is dee fuhl-guhn-duh (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....) 'n Kaartjie (na ....)
  [un kaah-chi (nah)]

History of East London

The area now known as East London was originally inhabited by the Khoisan people, who were later joined by the Xhosa tribes. These indigenous groups lived off the land, practicing agriculture, cattle herding, and hunting. The region's rivers and fertile lands made it an ideal location for sustaining their communities.
East London was officially established as a British settlement in 1847. The British recognized the strategic importance of the Buffalo River as a port and established the town to serve as a supply base during the frontier wars with the Xhosa people. The town was named 'East London' in an attempt to replicate the success and strategic importance of London in the United Kingdom.
The construction of a proper port began in 1872, transforming East London into a key player in the regional economy. The port facilitated the export of wool, hides, and other agricultural products, fostering growth and attracting a diverse population of settlers, including British, German, and other European immigrants.
The completion of the railway line connecting East London to King William's Town in 1876 marked a significant development. This railway line was crucial in enhancing trade and communication between the coastal city and the inland regions, further establishing East London as a commercial hub.
During the apartheid era, East London, like many South African cities, was deeply affected by racial segregation policies. Areas were divided, with the city center predominantly reserved for white people. However, East London also became a center for anti-apartheid activism. The East London Riots of 1952 were significant, as local residents protested against the discriminatory laws, leading to a brutal crackdown by the authorities.
Following the end of apartheid in 1994, East London underwent significant changes. Efforts were made to integrate the city, promote economic development, and improve living conditions for all residents. The establishment of the East London Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) in the early 2000s aimed to attract investment, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
East London is rich in cultural heritage, hosting various festivals and events that celebrate its diverse population. The annual Buffalo City Festival showcases local music, dance, and culinary traditions, drawing visitors from across the region. The city also preserves its history through museums like the East London Museum, which houses the coelacanth, a rare fish thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered off the coast in 1938.