St Francis Travel Guide

Explore St Francis, a beautiful coastal town in South Africa, with this comprehensive travel guide that includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, top things to do, food and drink scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to St Francis

St Francis is a coastal town located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is a popular tourist destination that draws visitors with its picturesque beaches, stunning scenery, and outdoor adventures. Besides its natural beauty, St Francis is also home to several historically significant attractions and cultural sites, making it an ideal destination for both nature and culture enthusiasts.

In this travel guide, we will take a closer look at what St Francis has to offer and provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in St Francis

St Francis has a lot to offer to tourists, and there are several must-see attractions that you should not miss when visiting this beautiful town. Here are some of the top places to visit in St Francis:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Irma Booysen Floral Reserve: A reserve that showcases the diverse flora of the Eastern Cape.

  • The Port St Francis Harbour: A bustling harbor that is home to a thriving fishing industry and several restaurants.

  • The Seal Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse that was built in 1878 and is now a popular tourist attraction.

  • The St Francis Bay Golf Club: A stunning golf course that offers breathtaking views of the coastline.

Natural Attractions of St Francis: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The St Francis Bay Beach: A long, wide, and sandy beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

  • The Cape St Francis Nature Reserve: A reserve that is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, bushbuck, and mongooses.

  • The Eerste River: A picturesque river that is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

  • The Oyster Bay Reserve: A reserve that is home to several hiking trails and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St Francis

St Francis has several scenic hiking/biking routes that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region up close. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in St Francis:

  • The Chokka Trail: A 62-kilometer trail that takes hikers through the scenic coastline, rocky shores, and coastal fynbos.

  • The Wild Side Trail: A 10-kilometer trail that takes hikers through the Cape St Francis Nature Reserve.

  • The Kromme River Trail: A 12-kilometer hiking trail that takes hikers along the Kromme River.

Best Things to Do in St Francis: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are many other exciting activities and tours to enjoy when visiting St Francis. Here are some of the best things to do in St Francis:

  • Surfing: St Francis is one of the best surfing destinations in South Africa, with excellent waves and a variety of surf spots to choose from.

  • Fishing: The region is famous for its excellent fishing opportunities, whether you prefer deep-sea or freshwater fishing.

  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour of the coastline to view wildlife, explore the harbor or go fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for St Francis

If you’re planning a week-long trip to St Francis, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Irma Booysen Floral Reserve and explore the town’s shops and restaurants.

Day 2: Explore the Port St Francis harbor and the Cape St Francis Lighthouse.

Day 3: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the Eerste River.

Day 4: Take a surfing lesson or go deep-sea fishing.

Day 5: Go hiking or biking on one of the many scenic trails in the area.

Day 6: Take a boat tour of the coastline and view wildlife.

Day 7: Relax on the St Francis Bay Beach and soak up the sun.

Food and Drink Scene of St Francis

St Francis has a vibrant food and drink scene that offers a wide range of local and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages when visiting St Francis:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Braai: South African barbecue that features delicious meat dishes cooked on an open flame.

  • Bobotie: A rich and spicy meat dish that is a traditional South African meal.

  • Bunny Chow: A flavorful and filling Durban curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread.

Local Beverages

  • Rooibos Tea: A popular herbal tea that is unique to South Africa and has numerous health benefits.

  • Amarula: A South African liqueur made from the fruit of the marula tree. It is a sweet and creamy drink that is often served over ice.

Where to Stay in St Francis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

St Francis offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, you’ll find it in St Francis. Here are some of the top places to stay in St Francis:

  • The Sands at St Francis: A luxury hotel that offers stunning views of the coastline and excellent amenities.

  • The Quarry Lake Inn: A four-star hotel that is located near the St Francis Bay Beach and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.

  • The Surf Lodge: A cozy guesthouse that offers a friendly atmosphere and convenient location near the beach.

What to Buy in St Francis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting St Francis, there are many unique souvenirs and local products that you can buy to bring back home. Here are some of the best things to buy in St Francis:

  • Local artwork and crafts: St Francis is home to many talented artists and crafters who produce unique and beautiful works of art.

  • Rooibos tea: This herbal tea is unique to South Africa and makes for an excellent souvenir or gift for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of St Francis

South Africa is a culturally diverse country, and St Francis is no exception. Visitors to St Francis can expect to encounter various cultural traditions, customs, and beliefs. It is essential to be respectful of the local culture and customs when visiting St Francis.

Best Time to Visit St Francis

The best time to visit St Francis is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the region has much to offer throughout the year, and visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and cultural events throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of St Francis

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting St Francis:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Take precautions against sunburn and heatstroke.

  • Stay on designated hiking/biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.

  • Swim in areas that are not designated for swimming.

  • Disturb the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Visitors to St Francis should take precautions to ensure their safety and health during their visit. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in St Francis

St Francis is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution and take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night, and stick to well-lit areas.

  • Keep your belongings secured and out of sight.

  • Follow local safety guidelines, especially when it comes to swimming, surfing, and outdoor activities.

Health in St Francis

Visitors to St Francis should take precautions to protect themselves against diseases that are prevalent in the region. Here are some tips:

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water.

  • Take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid diseases such as malaria and dengue fever.

  • Ensure that your vaccinations are up to date before traveling to South Africa.

Getting to St Francis: Transportation Options and Logistics

St Francis is easily accessible from other parts of South Africa via several transportation options. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near St Francis

The nearest airport to St Francis is the Port Elizabeth International Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near St Francis

There are several bus stations located near St Francis, including the Jeffreys Bay bus station and the Humansdorp bus station.

Other Options

Visitors to St Francis can also rent a car or use a taxi service to get around the town and its surroundings.

How to Get Around in St Francis

St Francis is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or bike. Visitors can also use taxis, buses or car rentals to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from St Francis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the Eastern Cape region of South Africa, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you should consider:

  • The Addo Elephant National Park: A national park that is home to a large population of African elephants.

  • The Tsitsikamma National Park: A coastal reserve that offers excellent hiking and stunning scenery.

  • Port Elizabeth: A bustling city that is perfect for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

St Francis is a beautiful coastal town in South Africa that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff or an adventure seeker, St Francis has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be well equipped to plan your trip to St Francis and make the most of your visit to this amazing destination.

Port St Francis. Port St Francis. St Francis. St Francis. Port St Francis. Port St Francis. Cape St Francis Lighthouse. Cape St Francis Lighthouse. The canals in St Francis Bay. The canals in St Francis Bay. The river mouth and beaches in St Francis Bay. The river mouth and beaches in St Francis Bay.