St Francis Links – World-Class Golf on the Garden Route

St Francis Links, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and one of South Africa’s most celebrated golfing destinations. Voted among the top courses in the country, it’s a bucket-list course for local and international golfers alike.

Nicklaus himself praised it as “possibly the best golf course I have ever seen”—and it’s easy to see why. Set amidst rolling coastal dunes, with sweeping sea views and natural fynbos, this true links-style course delivers a golfing experience that is both authentic and awe-inspiring.

Whether you’re planning a full golf getaway or just a few scenic rounds between adventures, St Francis Bay offers the perfect mix of golf, nature, and coastal charm.

St Francis Bay Golf Club – Warm Hospitality, Ocean Views

Renowned across South Africa for its welcoming atmosphere and strong club spirit, the St Francis Bay Golf Club is a must-play course for visiting golfers. Set on an exquisite piece of coastal estate overlooking the Indian Ocean, the course offers both scenic beauty and a challenging game.

Originally designed by Robert Grimsdell as a 9-hole course for private use in 1975, the club has since evolved into a full 18-hole layout, thanks to an expansion by Peter Matkovich & Dale Hayes in 1999. The course blends natural terrain with well-considered design, making it enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.

Bruce’s Ocean Museum & Café – Coastal Vibes by the Waves

Nestled at the Heritage Centre beside Granny’s Pool on Harbour Road, Bruce’s Ocean Museum & Café is more than just a café — it’s a local icon combining casual seaside dining with engaging marine education. With views over the world-famous Bruce’s Beauties surf break, it’s the ideal spot to slow down and soak in the sea air after a morning in the waves

Open Tuesday–Sunday from around 08:00 to 14:00, and Sundays until 13:00, Bruce’s serves up relaxed café fare perfect for families, surfers, and beach-goers alike. Expect generous toasties and croissants, hearty daily specials (like winter soups), indulgent brownies and date balls, plus refreshing frozen yoghurt and soft-serve—many of which are vegan or gluten‑free friendly. Beverages include excellent coffee, milkshakes, and locally sourced orange juice—all served in recyclable cups so you can take your drink down to the beach.

Cape St Francis Beach

Surfers are drawn to this part of the coast for the legendary waves, often joined by playful dolphins. Whales can be seen close to the shore during winter and spring. Some good fishing spots can be found off the rocks. 

Enjoy a variety of water sports or simply relax in the summer sun.

Summer: October- March Winter: April – September

Ocean Wildlife Cruises – Discover the Magic of St Francis Bay

Step aboard and set out on an unforgettable marine adventure as we cruise along the spectacular coastline of St Francis Bay. Travel past sweeping sand dunes, untouched beaches, and the rugged beauty of the Cape St Francis Nature Reserve, all the way to the dramatic outcrop of Shark Point.

From June to November, the bay comes alive with the awe-inspiring sight of Southern right and humpback whales as they make their annual migration. With a high success rate during these months, it’s not uncommon to witness these gentle giants up close. Occasionally, we’re lucky enough to have a close encounter—a moment that will stay with you forever. 

Throughout the year, the bay is home to numerous dolphin pods, African penguins, Cape fur seals, and a wide array of birdlife and other marine species, offering something special in every season.

Seal Point Lighthouse – A Beacon of History and Heritage

Standing proudly at 27.75 metres, the Seal Point Lighthouse is the tallest masonry lighthouse in South Africa and a striking landmark on the southeasternmost tip of the African continent. Built in 1878, this historic structure continues to serve as a vital coastal beacon, now equipped with a modern radio beacon, fog signal, and fog detector—a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern functionality.

The lighthouse features a 28-metre circular stone tower topped with a lantern house and a second-order revolving lantern, composed of eight catadioptric lens panels that still guide vessels safely along this rugged coastline.

Declared a National Monument in 1984, the Seal Point Lighthouse is more than just a navigation aid—it’s a living testament to engineering perseverance. Back in its construction days, it took two weeks by ox cart to transport materials from Humansdorp, as teams navigated rivers, gorges, and untamed terrain to bring this beacon to life.

Nature Walks

Explore the Coastal Magic of the Two Harbours Trail
Discover the breathtaking beauty of St Francis Bay along the Two Harbours Trail, a scenic coastal walk that links the Heritage Eco Centre at Granny’s Pool (Harbour Road) with the picturesque Port St Francis. Whether you start at the harbour or the port, this hour-long trail winds along a rugged shoreline, offering unforgettable ocean views and abundant marine life.

Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales—especially during whale season from May to October—as well as a vibrant array of seabirds. The waters are alive with activity, from chokka fishing boats and yachts to paddlers on surfski’s, jetskis, and even surfers catching waves at the legendary Bruce’s Beauties.

The trail is well marked and accessible, with a mix of wooden steps, footpaths, and natural rocky stretches—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Wander Through the Irma Booysen Flora Reserve
Step into the heart of Cape St Francis with a peaceful walk through the Irma Booysen Flora Reserve. With multiple entry points throughout the village, this indigenous reserve invites you to wander along clearly marked trails that weave through an extraordinary variety of coastal flora.

Enjoy leisurely strolls under a canopy of native trees—each thoughtfully labeled for easy identification. Take a moment on one of the many benches scattered along the route to soak in sweeping views of the headland, home to the only two-pointed headland of its kind in the world.

It’s a botanical haven and a hidden gem for nature lovers, photographers, and those simply seeking a serene escape into the wild.

Canal Cruises – Drift Through the Heart of St Francis Bay

No visit to St Francis Bay is complete without experiencing its iconic canal system—a tranquil maze of waterways inspired by the charm of European canal towns. A leisurely canal cruise is the perfect way to soak up the beauty, serenity, and lifestyle of this unique coastal village.

Glide past picturesque homes, lush gardens, and small private jetties as you wind your way through the canals and up the Kromme River. With the boat gently drifting and the engines switched off, you’ll be immersed in the peaceful sounds of nature—birds calling, fish jumping, and the occasional splash of a paddler going by.

Whether you’re after romance, relaxation, or a family-friendly activity, a canal cruise is a must-do experience that captures the essence of St Francis Bay living.

Paddle & SUP – Glide Into Nature

The Greater St Francis region offers the perfect playground for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking, with a variety of waterways including the Kromme River, peaceful canals, and stretches of open ocean.

Beginners will love the gentle conditions along the canals and river mouth—ideal for building confidence and enjoying the surroundings at a relaxed pace. For more adventurous paddlers, the wilder side of the bay provides open-ocean challenges, dramatic scenery, and rich marine life.

SUP in St Francis isn’t just a sport—it’s a front-row seat to nature at its finest.

Sunset on the Rocks – Nature’s Golden Hour in Cape St Francis

Tucked away on the rugged Wild Side of Cape St Francis, Sunset Rock is a cherished local secret—a natural lookout point where the magic of sunrise and sunset comes to life in breathtaking colour.

Those lucky enough to call St Francis home often speak of the vibrant westerly sunsets and invigorating easterly sunrises that paint the sky in rich hues over land and sea. But visitors, too, can share in this daily gift from nature. Whether you’re starting your morning with a peaceful moment or winding down the day with a toast to the horizon, Sunset Rock offers a front-row seat to some of the Eastern Cape’s most spectacular sky shows.

No crowds. No filters. Just pure, natural beauty.

Tip: Bring a camera—or better yet, leave it behind—and simply take it all in.

Bird Watching – A Hidden Haven for Avid Birders

Whether you’re a passionate birder or a casual nature lover, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis offer a surprisingly rich and varied birdwatching experience, thanks to their unique blend of coastal, wetland, and grassland habitats.

Coastal Lookouts & Sea Birds

Both Cape St Francis and Seal Point are rocky headlands that serve as prime viewing spots for Cape Gannets, Terns, and Cormorants diving dramatically for fish just offshore. Look out for White-breasted and Cape Cormorants perched on rocks, drying their wings in the sea breeze, while the ever-watchful Kelp Gulls circle above, opportunistically scavenging the shoreline.

Shopping in St Francis Bay – Coastal Charm Meets Boutique Finds

While St Francis Bay is best known for its beaches, waves, and natural beauty, it also offers a delightful shopping experience filled with charm, character, and local flair.

The Morning Market – Local Flavour & Handcrafted Finds

Held on the last Saturday of every month, the St Francis Morning Market is a lively event located in the heart of the village. It’s the perfect spot to browse a curated selection of local crafts, artisanal foods, homemade treats, fresh produce, and handmade gifts.

Expect friendly faces, community spirit, and the joyful buzz of locals and visitors mingling together. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply enjoying a laid-back morning with coffee in hand, the Morning Market is a must on your monthly calendar.

Village Square Mall – Elegant Shopping in the Heart of Town

Conveniently located at the junction of St Francis Drive and Lyme Road South, the Village Square Mall offers a relaxed yet refined shopping experience. With its upmarket boutiques and specialty stores, the mall caters to locals and holidaymakers alike.

All housed in stylish coastal architecture, the centre is easy to access, with plenty of parking and a laid-back village atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a beachy gift, a good read, or something special for your home, Village Square has something for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring the local market scene or browsing the boutique-lined streets, shopping in St Francis Bay offers a charming mix of style, creativity, and local personality—perfect for a relaxed morning or an afternoon stroll between adventures.

Local Flavours and the Legendary Chokka (Calamari)

St Francis Bay is world-renowned for its chokka/squid industry. Visitors often follow the “Calamari Route”, exploring top destinations serving the freshest catches daily

Joe Fish, set within the Cape St Francis Resort, is beloved for its family-friendly vibe, award-winning calamari, burgers, ribs, steaks, and eclectic seafood dishes. The ocean breeze and casual elegance enhance the experience

Big Time Taverna and Peri Peri—two canal-side institutions—specialise in Greek and Portuguese cuisines respectively, paired with canal views, sunset backdrops, and warm hospitality

Cafes, Garden Eats & Casual Spots
Charming gems like Rambling Rose Garden Café & Bruce’s, cater to lighter meals, coffee and 

Boutique Fine Dining

Cozy venues like Chokka Block Restaurant, Twenty Two Eatery & Vin De Boef/Off the menu  offer world‑class eating

Mountain Biking – Ride the Trails of St Francis Bay

For adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, St Francis Bay offers a range of mountain biking trails that wind through coastal forests, fynbos-covered dunes, and scenic farmland backroads. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed ride with ocean views or a more technical challenge, there’s something here for every skill level.

Explore the untamed beauty of the area at your own pace—ride past wild open spaces, spot local birdlife, and soak in the fresh sea air as you follow well-worn single tracks and gravel routes.

If you’re new to the area or keen to find the best routes, simply pop into the local tourism office to collect a Mountain Biking Trail Map. The team will point you in the right direction and help you choose the perfect route to suit your time and fitness level.

Surfing in St Francis – Ride the Legendary Waves

For surf lovers, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis offer some of the most consistent and iconic waves in South Africa. The prime surf season runs from May to mid-September, when swell and offshore winds align to create world-class conditions. That said, good waves can roll in year-round, making this a must-visit destination for surfers of all levels.

This stretch of coast holds a legendary place in surf culture—immortalised in the classic 1960s surf film The Endless Summer. While that film made St Francis Bay’s perfect right-hand point break world-famous, nearby Bruce’s Beauties continues to draw surfers with its fast, hollow waves and consistent swell.

Whether you’re chasing barrels or just starting out, the energy of this surf town and its pristine beaches will leave you stoked.

Kite & Windsurfing – Harness the Wind

With steady wind conditions and a variety of ideal spots, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis are top destinations for kiteboarding and windsurfing in South Africa.

Popular launch spots include:

• The Kromme River Mouth in St Francis Bay

• Cape St Francis Beach, which works in various wind directions

Kiteboarding here is more than a thrill—it’s a visual spectacle. The sight of brightly coloured kites dancing across the sky as riders launch from the waves is unforgettable. Whether you’re into freestyle tricks, wave riding, or scenic downwinders, this coastline delivers.

And if you’re not quite ready to try it yourself, just watching from the beach is a show in itself.

Deep Sea Fishing – Cast Off into the Big Blue

If you’re after an unforgettable deep sea fishing adventure, look no further than St Francis Bay—home to some of South Africa’s richest and most rewarding fishing waters. Thanks to the incredible variety of species found here year-round, this coastal gem has earned its reputation for producing some of the country’s most successful fishing excursions.

St Francis Safaris – Expertly Guided by a Local Legend

Join St Francis Safaris, led by renowned Protea fisherman and multiple record-holder Tim Christy, whose 30+ years of experience fishing these waters ensures every trip is guided by deep local knowledge and insight. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned angler, Tim and his team tailor the experience to suit all levels of ability—making every outing exciting, safe, and enjoyable.

Get Active in St Francis Bay – Padel, Pickleball, Squash & Tennis

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for some fun and fitness on your holiday, St Francis Bay offers a fantastic variety of racket sports in beautiful coastal surroundings.

🎾 Tennis

Tennis enthusiasts will feel right at home in St Francis Bay, with well-maintained courts, social clubs, and a relaxed but competitive atmosphere. The St Francis Bay Tennis Club welcomes visitors and locals alike for casual games, social tournaments, and scheduled events. It’s a great way to enjoy some friendly competition while soaking up the sun.

🏓 Padel & Pickleball – Fast Growing Favourites

Join the global craze! Padel and Pickleball are both rapidly growing in popularity and are now available in St Francis Bay. These fun, fast-paced games are easy to learn and addictive to play—perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Whether you’re a total beginner or a doubles pro, the courts here offer a great space to give it a try. Equipment hire is usually available, so you can just show up and play.

🎯 Squash

Need a high-intensity workout? Squash courts in the area provide the perfect space to break a sweat and test your reflexes. It’s a great indoor option for those windier days or when you’re looking to keep your game sharp.