Port Alfred at a glance
Port Alfred is a small seaside resort town on the east coast of South Africa, situated in the Eastern Cape province at the mouth of the Kowie River. It is located midway between Port Elizabeth and East London. Over the last two decades, Port Alfred has experienced steady growth, particularly in its property market, driven by retirees and families seeking second homes. The town offers a variety of properties, from luxurious marina residences to more affordable options inland.Â
The Royal Alfred Marina is a standout feature, known as the most successful marina in South Africa, providing a secure, upscale environment with homes facing tidal canals and facilities like a small boat harbour.Â
Forest Downs, located in the town's southwest corner, features dense primary dune bush and a mix of old and new homes, some with sea or golf course views. Developments here include "Misty Waves" and "Emerald Heights," offering a range of property prices.
Port Alfred, known as "The Heart of the Sunshine Coast," is well-positioned for visitors and offers excellent beaches, historical significance, and numerous recreational activities like deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and surfing.
Port Alfred's airports/routes: travel effortlessly
Port Alfred is conveniently located near towns like Bathurst and Kenton-on-Sea, offering additional amenities and attractions. Bathurst is a 14-minute drive (14.3 km) via Port Alfred Rd/R67, while Kenton-on-Sea is a 22-minute drive (25.5 km) via R72. The Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport is 1 hour and 43 minutes away via R72 and N2.
Port Alfred's history: uncover the backstory
Port Alfred was established in the early 1820s by British settlers under Lord Charles Somerset to serve as a buffer between the Western Cape and the Ama Xhosa. Initially, it consisted of two separate towns: Port Kowie on the west bank and Port Frances on the east bank. In 1839, William Cock modified the river mouth to allow high-masted sailing ships to dock. The town was renamed Port Alfred in 1860 to honour Prince Alfred, Queen Elizabeth's son, following his visit.
Port Alfred's weather: discover the patterns
Port Alfred enjoys a temperate coastal climate with pleasant weather year-round. Summers are warm, and winters are mild. The warmest month is March, with an average temperature of 23.4°C, while August is the coldest month, averaging 19.5°C.
Port Alfred's schools: set your child up for success
Port Alfred offers a variety of schools for residents, including Happy Hours Pre-Primary School, Port Alfred Primary School, George Dickerson Primary School, Marjorie Parrish Santa Primary School, Calico Academy, and Port Alfred School, all providing excellent academic and age-appropriate programs.
The town also hosts Southern Africa's largest air school, 43 Air School, and Stenden South Africa, a subsidiary campus of Stenden University in the Netherlands, which attracts many international students annually.
Port Alfred's healthcare: get treated by the best
Port Alfred is well-served by several top-notch medical facilities, including Port Alfred Hospital, Marjorie Parrish TB Hospital, Sunshine Coast Hospice, and Station Hill Clinic. The Holistic Oak Wellness Centre focuses on promoting overall well-being.Â
Port Alfred's shopping scene: enjoy some retail therapy
Port Alfred residents have convenient access to excellent shopping options. Rosehill Mall and The Postmaster's Village offer a variety of shops, including well-known stores and boutiques.Â
Port Alfred's special attractions: have a fun day out
Port Alfred remains unspoiled by overpopulation and commercialism, preserving its natural beauty and providing a relaxing atmosphere. It boasts award-winning beaches, including Kelly's Beach, which holds Blue Flag Beach status as one of South Africa's top beaches. The town offers various activities such as fishing, scuba diving, canoeing, water skiing, and tubing.
The Royal Port Alfred Golf Club, known for its rich history and scenic coastal location, features an 18-hole championship course with well-manicured fairways, lush greens, and stunning coastal views, providing a picturesque golfing experience.
The Kowie Museum is a key cultural attraction, showcasing the area's history and heritage with exhibits on the 1820 settlers, the IsiXhosa collection, navigation of the Kowie River, and shipwreck stories. It offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors.
Find a home that inspires you in Port Alfred
From homes for sale in Port Alfred to renting a cosy spot, make your property dreams a reality by connecting with Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty, South Africa's most prominent real estate company.
190 Residential Homes For Sale in Port Alfred
FROM R195,000 to R32,000,000
R560,000
580m² Vacant Land For Sale in West Bank
Secure coastal estate. vacant Plot! With the Royal St. Andrews Hotel just a few meters away. The...
8 Residential Homes To Let in Port Alfred
FROM R3,500 to R17,840
R6,500 pm
2 Bedroom Townhouse To Let in Emerald Heights
Discover your new home in a spacious 2-bedroom unit within a large, welcoming complex. Enjoy the...
12 Commercial Properties For Sale in Port Alfred
FROM R1,700,000 to POA
R4,300,000
613m² Retail For Sale
Five adjoining shops in Main Street, measuring a total of 613 square metres (including a stoep and garden area) are up for grabs! At...
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