Cape Recife Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Adventure
Discover the historic Cape Recife Lighthouse, a stunning coastal landmark perfect for hiking and soaking in breathtaking ocean views.
Cape Recife Lighthouse, established in 1849, stands as a historic sentinel on the coastline of Gqeberha. This iconic structure not only offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean but also serves as a gateway to scenic hiking trails and rich maritime heritage, making it a must-visit for all tourists.
A brief summary to Cape Recife Lighthouse (Est. 1849)
- ERF 2410, Gqeberha, Summerstrand, 6011, ZA
- +27422351450
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the scenic trails around the lighthouse.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the hiking trails.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure clear views from the lighthouse.
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger weekend crowds.
Getting There
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Walking
Start your journey at the nearest public transport hub or accommodation in Port Elizabeth. Head towards the nearest bus stop and take the Bus 5 (Blue Route) towards Summerstrand. Ride the bus until you reach the Summerstrand Main Road stop. From there, walk straight down Summerstrand Main Road, enjoying the ocean views. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Marine Drive. Cross over to Marine Drive and follow it south. You will see signs guiding you along the beachfront. Keep walking until you reach the entrance to the Cape Recife Nature Reserve. Enter the reserve and follow the marked trails leading directly to Cape Recife Lighthouse, which will be visible as you approach.
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Cycling
If you prefer to cycle, rent a bike from one of the local bike rental places in Port Elizabeth. Start from the Central area and follow the coastal bike paths toward Summerstrand. Head toward the beachfront and take the designated bike lane along Marine Drive. Continue cycling south until you reach the entrance of Cape Recife Nature Reserve. Park your bike at the entrance and follow the walking path to the lighthouse. The route offers beautiful ocean views and is a pleasant ride.
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Public Transport
Use the local public transport system to reach Cape Recife. From the city center, take the Algoa Bus Service (Bus 5). Ensure you check the bus schedule for the latest updates. Ride the bus to the Summerstrand Main Road stop. After getting off, you can either walk directly to the lighthouse or take a short taxi ride from the bus stop to the entrance of Cape Recife Nature Reserve. The reserve is well-marked, and the lighthouse is approximately a 30-minute walk from the entrance.
Discover more about Cape Recife Lighthouse (Est. 1849)
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