Gonubie

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Gonubie's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Gonubie
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Exploring Gonubie Nature
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Cultural Day in East London
morning
:

Take a short drive to East London for a cultural immersion in South Africa's rich history. Visit the East London Museum, known for its fascinating exhibits, including the coelacanth fish and the natural history of the region. Grab breakfast at a local cafe, where you can try local pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets in East London, where you can find crafts, clothing, and souvenirs from local artisans. Have lunch at a popular local spot known for its delightful fusion of flavors. Spend the afternoon walking along the esplanade, watching surfers and basking in the sun.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at one of East London’s vibrant seafood restaurants along the waterfront. Check out local bars for live music and entertainment, embracing the lively nightlife. Return to Gonubie for some peaceful beach time under the stars.

day 4
Adventure at Areena Resort
morning
:

Head to Areena Resort, where a day full of adventure awaits. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the resort with stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Engage in various activities such as zip-lining or canoeing, tailored to suit different adventure levels.

afternoon
:

Continue your adrenaline-filled day with more activities, such as quad biking or horseback riding through the pristine landscapes. Enjoy a lunch at the resort’s cafe, taking a moment to relax and recharge. Explore the surrounding area, soaking in the tranquillity of nature.

evening
:

Savor dinner at Areena Resort, where the focus is on fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a campfire experience, perfect for making new friends and sharing stories under the African sky. Retire for the night in comfortable accommodations, lulled by the sounds of nature.

day 5
Beach Relaxation and Water Sports
morning
:

Enjoy a lazy beach morning at Gonubie, waking up to the sound of the ocean. After a leisurely breakfast at a nearby cafe, find your perfect spot on the beach with a good book or just soak up the sun. Take a refreshing dip in the sea to invigorate your senses.

afternoon
:

Sign up for water sports like stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking for an active afternoon. Enjoy lunch at beachside kiosks offering fresh seafood and local snacks. Spend the afternoon building sandcastles or playing beach games with friends or family.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sunset. Experience the vibrant vibe of Gonubie as locals gather for the evening. Conclude with a sunset beach walk, capturing memories against the backdrop of a stunning horizon.

day 6
Historical Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Gonubie Lighthouse, a historical landmark with stunning views. After taking some photos, enjoy breakfast at a nearby cafe while learning more about the town's history from locals. Stroll along the historical sites and see what stories these spots tell.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art galleries or museums that showcase the heritage and culture of East London and Gonubie. Have lunch at a bistro that features local dishes, making sure to try a signature local dessert. Continue exploring art or local history in the afternoon, perhaps participating in a local workshop.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a charming restaurant that highlights traditional cooking methods. Look for an evening performance or event to enjoy local music and dance. End your night with leisurely conversations and a cup of coffee, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

day 7
Hiking Adventures
morning
:

Prepare for a day of vigorous hiking by fueling up with a healthy breakfast. Visit the nearby Amatola Mountains for breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a trail that suits your level of experience.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the beauty of nature as you hike, taking breaks to admire the stunning landscapes. Have a picnic lunch amidst the scenery, enjoying the tranquility of the mountains. Conclude your hiking adventures with a bit of exploration in the area’s waterfalls or scenic viewpoints.

evening
:

Return to Gonubie and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a restaurant that caters to higher energy needs following a day of hiking. Share highlights of your hiking experiences with other guests or locals. Relax at your accommodation, enjoying the peaceful night after an active day.

day 8
Local Markets and Farewell
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to visiting local markets and shops for last-minute souvenirs and gifts. Enjoy breakfast at a popular market café, tasting local baked goods and fresh fruit. Engage with local vendors, learning more about the crafts and produce they offer.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon relaxing at a local park or beach, absorbing the beautiful scenery and perhaps taking part in beach volleyball or frisbee. Have lunch at a quaint eatery, reminiscing about your trip and the memorable experiences you’ve had. Take a final stroll down the beach, taking in the sights one last time.

evening
:

For your farewell dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a fantastic dining experience to wrap up your trip. Celebrate your adventures and the relationships built during your stay with local wines and foods. End the night with a reflective walk along the beach, feeling grateful for the memories created.

Discover Gonubie

Read more in our Gonubie 2025 Travel Guide.

Gonubie Travel Guide