Locals call it The Hill, the suburb of Central Hill in the centre of Port Elizabeth has sea views over the harbour that are just Wow!

Central Hill was once the most fashionable suburb in Port Elizabeth and many of the grand old Victorian buildings still remain. The area is rich in history with memorials scattered throughout the suburb, however, it has attracted a melange of cultures, bringing with them a now-vibrant cosmopolitan feel to Central Hill.

The ideal location makes Central Hill the perfect springboard from which to experience Port Elizabeth’s main attractions.

Things to do

Spend the day lounging in the sun on one of Port Elizabeth’s 3 Blue Flag beaches – Kings Beach, Humewood Beach and Hobie Beach, all excellent swimming and novice surfing beaches. Kings Beach has a super tube.

Central Hill and Port Elizabeth city has a glut of architectural wonders, take a stroll to see Campanile Tower, the Library, Market Square, the Opera House and various others along the way.

Walk the Route 67 Art and Heritage Walk, an energetic art project compiled to celebrate the 67 years of Nelson Mandela’s life in the public eye. The route consists of 67 public art pieces created by 67 local artists and spread over 67 giant leaps.

Climb the lighthouse at the Donkin Reserve for stunning views over Algoa Bay. The reserve also includes a pyramid built by a British Governor in 1820 in memory of his late wife, outdoor artwork and an onsite restaurant.

No trip to these parts of South Africa is complete without a safari to Addo Elephant National Park, a 30 minute drive from Central Hill. The park has over 600 elephants and the rest of the Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo.

Where to Eat

The long established Natti’s Thai Kitchen has been serving up brilliant authentic Thai cuisine to appreciative diners for many years. Spicy dishes, some hotter than others: try the Angry Duck dish at your own risk!

The Old Austria Restaurant is located in an old rectory and offers the visitor authentic German dishes. Enjoy your meal surrounded by a pleasing ambience and over the sounds of the piano.

The cosy but inviting Bain Street Grill Restaurant offers typical, delicious steakhouse fare. Dishes are perfectly prepared and served by attentive staff.

Fushin Sushi & Eastern Cuisine is a stylish, modern restaurant and bar in nearby Richmond Hill offering delectable sushi and other Oriental dishes. If you haven’t tried it, the Australian Eel dish is worthwhile.

Night Life

Café Zanzibar is an island-style restaurant and bar. The happy Hour starts early and extends for 4 hours! Enjoy a few drinks with the locals.

The Stage Door Restaurant is located in the oldest hotel in Port Elizabeth. The décor and local characters frequenting the place will keep you entertained throughout the evening. Occasional live music and light meals offered.

The Music Kitchen in Newton Park gets really rowdy when the various live acts perform and the crowd sing along. Expect an enjoyable, fun night out.

Where to Stay

There are outstanding accommodation options on offer in Central Hill including historic hotels, modern & chic city living, quiet and secluded guest houses and well-appointed private homes.

Transport

Air The Port Elizabeth International Airport is located just outside the city.

Car Several car rental agencies are based in Port Elizabeth and at the airport to hire a vehicle, or you could order a rental online.

Taxi Many taxi companies operate in Port Elizabeth.

Bus The city-managed bus service runs regularly throughout the city and in outlying suburbs.  

Did you know?

Port Elizabeth has 40km of unspoiled coastline, many stretches suitable for fishing, swimming and surfing. The city is almost precisely split between 2 of South Africa’s other premier cities, Durban and Cape Town.

Port Elizabeth is known as the Friendly City. Some refer to it as the Windy City, however, this a misnomer, climatologists will tell you it averages very few windy days annually.