By Lebogang Mogashoa
March 13th, 2008
What to do, what to do while in Port Elizabeth. Instead of getting caught up in the research, let us do it for you. Here's our list of the top things to do in PE. Try them out and you’re sure to have a great time.
Beach
It wouldn’t make sense to go to PE and leave out the beach. Try Hobie, Humewood, Kings and Wells Estate. The water is warm and really inviting for the swimmer in you. In addition to all the water goodness, Humewood and Wells are Blue Flag certified meaning they meet all the international requirements for safety and cleanliness.
Boardwalk Casino
As soon as you get tired of the beach, go spend your money. Visit the Boardwalk Casino and go wild. If you’re not winning, wrap it up. You don’t want to be carried out kicking and screaming, it lacks grace. Take your loved one to dinner in one of the great restaurants they have on site.
Kragga Kamma Game Park
If you’re not feeling very Las Vegas, go for the less debauched route. It’s about R30 to get in. Get there early in the morning to fully enjoy it. You can try a guided tour but you’ll probably have more fun on a self drive. Just don’t get lost because the White Rhinos, Buffalos, Giraffes and others on site will not help you with directions. There’s also an option to camp.
The People’s Observatory
If you happen to be in PE on the first or third Wednesday of the month at 8pm, go to the People’s Observatory. Astronomy enthusiasts gather here to look up into the skies. The eight-inch Cooke Refractor telescope you can use to check the stars out is a powerful instrument that’s been in existence since 1911.
Leonardo’s
Eat out at Leonardo’s for the best pizza in town. Find it at Boardwalk and join the ranks of PE lovers who recommend it. It’s thin-based and the house red is as excellent as the lively ambience of the restaurant.
The Beer tour
Check out the Ibhayi Brewery Tours. They take you through the beer making process to spike your cravings. After a long day of learning you and your partner can settle down and enjoy a couple of pints at the Bay and Barrel.
The South African Air Force Museum
How much do you really know about the South African Air Force? If you like most of us, probably nothing. So take the opportunity to learn and visit the South African Airforce Museum. It’s free so you’ve got no excuse.
Bayworld
Bayworld is not just for kids. It can also be an incredibly romantic spot to check out with your partner. There’s an oceanarium with a large lake full of dolphins, the big attraction really. Spend time at the museum, which offers a great mix of natural and cultural history. If you’re into reptiles, there’s a snake park to check out.
Alexandria Dune Fields
Dunes are incredible no matter how big or small. But the Alexandria Dune Field is especially interesting because it’s the largest coastal dune field in the southern hemisphere. Find it just outside the city at the villages of Cannonville and Colchester.