Explore the Magnificent Eastern Cape: Jeffrey's Bay

The town of Jeffreys Bay intrigues me for some reason. Jeffreys Bay is located in the Eastern Cape, around 75 kilometers southwest of Port Elizabeth, and is famed for its world-famous beaches and surfing waves. Jeffrey's Bay is the best place to relax, in my opinion.

The town is named after Captain Jeffreys, who sailed his cargo ship on trading voyages along the East Coast of South Africa in the 1840s. During one of his voyages, an outbreak of scurvy compelled him to dock his ship in a location he believed to be rich in opportunities. Soon after he and the others landed, he constructed a crude port on what is now the primary beach. In 1850, Captain Jeffreys also constructed his first residence, a two-story palace known as the "White House." His family was the first white family to establish in the town, and in 1852 Captain Jeffrey paid a total of 79 British pounds for erfs 1, 2, 9, and 10. Aside from its historical significance, Jeffreys Bay is home to some of the top tourist attractions and is a perfect place to escape the hectic city life.

A must-do activity is a horseback beach ride in Papiesfontein, between the Gamtoos and Kabeljous rivers, only 10 kilometers outside of Jeffreys Bay and 70 kilometers from Port Elizabeth. One can ride along a 13-kilometer circular path on horseback. Along a 6-kilometer stretch of desolate beach, the walk passes through magnificent fynbos coastal vegetation and offers views of the dunes over the course of around two hours. A handful of beaches provide kitesurfing, surfing, and windsurfing, which are certain to keep everyone entertained.

Article Courtesy of www.sahistory.org.za/place/jeffreys-bay