Enjoy long coastal walks, learn to surf, spot colourful marine life at the nearby aquarium and admire the scenery at East London’s main beach.
The attractive Eastern Beach is one of East London’s most popular and centrally located beaches. Enjoy relaxed walks around a bay of golden sand backed by large dunes, watch talented surfers on the beach’s breaks and learn to catch a wave with a kitesurfing lesson.
Eastern Beach fronts East London’s waterfront esplanade. The wide and sandy beach presents ample room for children to play and beach sports. You’ll find changing facilities and toilets at various points along the waterfront. Lifeguards patrol the beach and flags mark the areas that are safe for swimming. Due to the waves, it is recommendable to accompany young children into the water.
Eastern Beach is a popular destination for surfers and kitesurfers. Watch as the locals ride the rolling waves or learn to surf on the clean breaks. The backpacker hostel located on the beach offers individual and group surfing lessons with experienced guides.
Stroll along the sand toward the eastern end of the bay. Gaze up at the huge sand dunes and the rugged headland in the distance. Another enjoyable walk leads along the esplanade toward East London’s city centre. Find cafés, bars and seafood restaurants, many with sea views.
Go to the nearby East London Aquarium to watch seal shows, see a penguin colony and spot tropical fish. Walk out onto the aquarium’s wooden boardwalk and take in tranquil coastal views. The boardwalk becomes a popular viewing point for spotting migratory southern right whales from August to November. Access to the boardwalk is free.
Eastern Beach is about a 30-minute walk or less than 10-minutes’ drive from East London’s city centre. There is a large car park at the back of the beach and additional parking areas along the esplanade. The beach is a safe area but it is advisable to return to the city during daylight hours if going by foot.
