Things To Do
in Gonubie
Gonubie is a laid-back coastal town just outside East London, known for its long sandy beach and family-friendly vibe. Its river mouth and promenade attract walkers, birdwatchers, and water sports enthusiasts alike. The area blends Xhosa and English-speaking communities, offering warm hospitality, seafood eateries, and easy access to the Eastern Cape's wildlife and reserves.
With a gentle pace and scenic coastline, Gonubie serves as a relaxing base to explore the coast and nearby city attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Gonubie and settle into your chosen accommodation. Take a morning stroll along the beautiful Gonubie Beach and let the sound of the waves wash away your travel fatigue. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local cafe, soaking in the coastal charm of this quaint town.
Explore the Gonubie River Mouth, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Grab a hearty lunch at one of the beachfront eateries, sampling some delicious South African cuisine. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring local shops and artisan markets.
As the sun sets, grab dinner at a seaside restaurant with stunning ocean views. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk under the stars on the beach, feeling the fresh ocean breeze on your skin. Reflect on the day’s adventures while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Start your day with a visit to the Gonubie Nature Reserve for a peaceful morning surrounded by nature. The reserve offers various walking trails with opportunities to observe diverse plant and animal life. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints along the trails.
After a morning of exploration, head back into town for a delightful lunch at a local deli. Spend the afternoon at the beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or try out surfing lessons, making the most of Gonubie’s pleasant weather. Take a beach walk to the Gonubie Mouth, where the river meets the ocean, a perfect spot for photographs.
Dine at one of the cozy restaurants featuring fresh, local seafood. After dinner, enjoy an evening of live music or community events that often take place near the beachfront. Wind down your day with a relaxing evening stroll along the waterfront promenade.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚆Public transport (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧺Grocery staple (bread, milk, eggs) | $2-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel or guesthouse | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and relaxed vibe
- Friendly locals and safe family-friendly environment
- Good value for money compared with bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and shopping options in Gonubie
- Longer drives to larger airports and major attractions
- "Molo" - Hello
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Ndiyavuya ukukwazi" - Nice to meet you
- "Enkosi" - Thank you
- "Nceda" - Please/Help
Places to Visit in Gonubie
Visit one of these nice places.
A long sandy shoreline with dunes and golden hour light—perfect for sunrise or sunset shots.
Where river meets sea; reflections, birds, and silhouettes create compelling compositions at dusk.
Cliff-top vistas over the coastline; dramatic skies and expansive ocean views.
Food in Gonubie
Gonubie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hollowed-out loaf filled with curry, a staple you’ll find in coastal towns and city eateries alike.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew prepared in a cast-iron pot, often featuring meat, vegetables, and rich spices.
Fresh catches like snoek, kingklip, and calamari prepared simply with lemon, herbs, and olive oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market by the Gonubie River with fresh produce, crafts, and quick street snacks.
A broader market scene nearby with a mix of local snacks, crafts, and food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a handshake; addressing elders first is appreciated.
Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals; respect privacy in residential areas.
Dress modestly in public spaces; keep noise levels reasonable and dispose of rubbish properly.
Safety
Tipping in Gonubie
Ensure a smooth experience
Leave around 5-10% for basic service in casual spots; 10-15% for good service in restaurants. Cash tips are common, but many places also accept tips via card readers.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; most venues support Visa and MasterCard. Some smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with refreshing sea breezes; expect holiday crowds and strong sun—seek shade and stay hydrated.
Milder days and clear skies; great for long coastal walks and photography with softer light.
Cooler but generally mild; occasional rain—good for indoor museums or whale-watching offshore.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming coastal flora; ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Gonubie at Night
Hiking in Gonubie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy trail along the Gonubie River with birdlife and photo opportunities.
Coastal hike with sweeping views, cliffs, and ocean panoramas near East London.
Forest and wetlands trails near the Buffalo River mouth with wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Gonubie by plane.
Local domestic airport serving East London; about 20-25 minutes from Gonubie by car.
Major international airport about a 3-4 hour drive from Gonubie; provides regional and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of Black African (primarily Xhosa-speaking), White, Coloured, and Indian communities; English is widely spoken, with Xhosa and Afrikaans also common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal sport with consistent waves along the Eastern Cape coast.
Popular local and regional leagues played during season.
Common pastime and matches in community grounds and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gonubie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; look for veggie curries, roasted vegetables, salads, and grain bowls.
Many venues offer gluten-free bread and dishes; always check for cross-contamination if needed.