Port Alfred

Nestled at the heart of the Sunshine Coast, Port Alfred is a captivating and scenic town in the Eastern Cape province, home to around 26,000 inhabitants. With its location at the mouth of the Kowie River, it is conveniently located between Gqeberha and East London, roughly 30 kilometres from Canon Rock.

Renowned for its charming homes and captivating allure, Port Alfred is a highly coveted area for holidaymakers and property seekers alike. Its exclusive location beckons with its golden beaches, a welcoming seaside village ambience, and a delightful temperate climate. Its immaculate natural surroundings and diverse cultural experiences make it an enchanting sanctuary where residents can embrace the epitome of coastal living.

A brief history of the area

Port Alfred has a rich history dating back to the 1820s. It was founded by British settlers who were relocated there by Lord Charles Somerset due to tensions between the Cape Colony and the Xhosa. Initially, the settlement consisted of two separate towns, with settlers on the west bank naming theirs Port Kowie and settlers on the east bank naming theirs Port Frances. In 1860, however, Queen Victoria's son, Prince Alfred, visited the town, and the name was changed to Port Alfred.

Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)

Port Alfred is close to some towns that provide amenities and attractions, such as Bathurst and Kenton-on-Sea. Travel time from Port Alfred to Bathurst takes 14 minutes (14,3 km) via Port Alfred Rd/R67, whereas from Port Alfred to Kenton-on-Sea takes 22 minutes (25,5 km) via R72. It takes 1 hr 43 min to get to the Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport via R72 and N2.

Climate

The weather in Port Alfred is pleasant throughout the year. Summers are warm, and winters are mild, resulting in a temperate coastal climate. With an average temperature of 23.4°C, March is the warmest month in Port Alfred. Port Alfred experiences the coldest temperatures in August, averaging 19.5°C.

Schools in the area

Port Alfred residents can choose from various schools to educate their children. Schools in the area include Happy Hours Pre-Primary School, Port Alfred Primary School, George Dickerson Primary School, Marjorie Parrish Santa Primary School, Calico Academy, and Port Alfred School. These schools offer excellent academic and age-appropriate programs.

Healthcare in the area

Several top-notch medical facilities serve the healthcare needs of Port Alfred's community. You will find Port Alfred Hospital, Marjorie Parrish T B Hospital, Sunshine Coast Hospice and Station Hill Clinic in the area. Holistic Oak Wellness Centre, for instance, focuses on promoting overall well-being. If you are looking for medical prescriptions, you can find them at Leach Pharmacy and Clicks Pharmacy Port Alfred.

Shopping centres

Port Alfred residents enjoy convenient access to an array of exceptional shopping destinations. Shops of all kinds are available in Rosehill Mall and The Postmaster's Village, including a wide selection of well-known stores and boutiques. Furthermore, nearby suburbs offer more comprehensive shopping options, including The Village Green and Silver Leaf Centre.

Restaurants

The culinary scene in Port Alfred is diverse, offering a wide array of restaurant choices that cater to various tastes. Residents can get delicious food at Guido's, Graze By The River, R72 Saloon, Die Stoompot, and Guido's Beach Bar. Other popular spots are The Charthouse, C'est la Vie Port Alfred, Motto Cafe & Restaurant, and The Thistle Restaurant.

Special attractions 

With its historic sites and scenic surroundings, Port Alfred is an enticing place to live and visit, offering residents and visitors a captivating experience of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some of the attractions:

1. Royal Port Alfred Golf Club: The golf club boasts a rich history and a scenic coastal location that adds to the allure of the golfing experience. Players can enjoy the club's 18-hole championship golf course. With its well-manicured fairways, lush greens, and stunning coastal views, the course provides a picturesque setting for a memorable round of golf.

2. Kowie Museum: The museum is a fascinating cultural attraction featuring the area's history and heritage. The diverse exhibits explore the arrival of the 1820 settlers, the IsiXhosa collection, the navigation of the Kowie River, and shipwreck stories. Kowie Museum preserves and promotes the history of Port Alfred, offering an engaging and educational experience for all visiting.

3. Kelly's Beach: The area is full of attractions, such as swimming at Kelly's Beach, sunbathing on the soft sands, and enjoying walks. Kelly's Beach also boasts stunning coastline views, making it a perfect place to capture memorable moments and enjoy Port Alfred's natural beauty.

Make Port Alfred your home. Let it be your story.

There is nothing quite like Port Alfred in terms of its captivating natural beauty, rich historical heritage, and close-knit community. It is truly one of the gems of the Eastern Cape. Residents enjoy its scenic river and breathtaking landscapes while enjoying a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Alongside excellent schools, top-notch medical facilities, and a tight-knit community, Port Alfred offers an idyllic environment for families to thrive and create lasting memories. With Seeff, you can find the best properties and get expert advice on buying your dream home in Port Alfred. Get in touch with us today for more information.