Wild Coast
Port St Johns
Set where the Mzimvubu River breaks through the Gates of St John cliffs to reach the sea, Port St Johns is the Wild Coast's most dramatic town.
The town lies at the end of the R61 from Lusikisiki, in a gorge cut by the Mzimvubu River between two towering cliffs known as the Gates of St John.
Second Beach and the surrounding forest, waterfalls and river make it a base for hiking, fishing and river trips, with subtropical vegetation running right down to the coastline.
Why people come to Port St Johns
- The Gates of St John and the Mzimvubu River mouth
- Second Beach and the forested coastline
- Hiking, birding and river trips
- Umngazi River mouth a short drive south
Things to do in Port St Johns
Beach
Second Beach
Port St Johns
Port St Johns' main beach, a wide sweep backed by forest a few kilometres from the town centre, with lifeguards on duty in the busy season.
View detailsNatural landmark
Gates of St John
Port St Johns
The two cliffs — Mount Thesiger and Mount Sullivan — that the Mzimvubu River cuts between on its way to the sea, and the reason the town looks the way it does.
View detailsViewpoint
Mount Thesiger Viewpoint
Port St Johns
A steep road climbs to the plateau and old airstrip above the town, giving the definitive view down the gorge to the river mouth.
View detailsNature reserve
Silaka Nature Reserve
Port St Johns
A small coastal reserve just south of town where forest runs down to a sheltered bay, with short trails, zebra and blue duiker, and chalets inside the reserve.
View detailsWhere to eat in Port St Johns
Where to stay in Port St Johns
Resort
Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa
Port St Johns
The Wild Coast's best-known family resort, at the Mngazi River mouth south of Port St Johns, long known for its childminding service and river activities.
View detailsBackpackers
Jungle Monkey Backpackers
Port St Johns
A budget base in town used by hikers and overlanders working their way along the Wild Coast.
View detailsRiverside resort
Cremorne Estate
Port St Johns
Self-catering and chalet accommodation on the Mzimvubu River upstream of town, with boat access to the river and its own restaurant.
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