St Francis Bay
St Francis Bay was first sighted by Portuguese
sailors in 1575 and is named after the Patron Saint of
Sailors, St Francis. Situated only an hour's drive from
Port Elizabeth and only 15 minutes off the N2, St
Francis Bay beckons. This unique and exclusive paradise
on South Africa's Kouga Coast draws holiday-makers from
all over the world to enjoy the glorious beaches lapped
by the warm Indian Ocean, excellent water-sport
facilities, a leisurely lifestyle and the magical beauty
of its unspoilt surroundings.
“Before the village was established the river and
coastline were peaceful havens visited by few who knew
of its existence and could cope with some fifty odd
gates from Port Elizabeth and get across the nearly
insurmountable sand dunes. There was no bridge.
Since Leighton Hulett developed the canal system and
secured the access, in the 60's, the area has been
opened up and many people now live alongside the sea,
the canals, or the river. However, tasteful architecture
means the charm remains and St Francis continues to be a
world of its own, peaceful and with people to match.”
Sir Michael Edwardes, November 2002
St Francis is a great place to visit. It's also an
ideal place to live. The magnificent up-market village
at St Francis Bay is a symphony of charming white-walled
homes, thatch roofs and intricate tidal canals. Then
there is the exclusive Otter's Landing with its sweeping
custom-built Tuscan architecture, and alongside,
Santareme sporting the crisp and clean lines of
Mediterranean style homes. These varied architectural
styles combine to make St Francis as unique as it is
attractive.
Rediscover healthy outdoor living in excellent
company. There are walks and trails, acres of fynbos and
in early summer wild flowers carpet a large expanse with
purples, yellows and whites. With its sheltered waters
in the river and the bay, water sports are very popular
in St Francis Bay. The Kromme River, some days
like a living mirror, sometimes resembling a strong sea,
is navigable for 8 km and is the favourite of many a
fisherman and sailing enthusiast.
The beaches epitomize perfection - the whitest,
cleanest stretches of sand on the South African
coastline. St Francis Bay is home to Bruce's Beauties,
one of the worlds best known surf breaks, featured in
the 60's cult film Endless Summer. Those fortunate to
enough to stay in St Francis will testify to the
extraordinary sunsets and equally invigorating sunrises.
It is this harmony with nature that makes St Francis
extra special.
St Francis Bay is truly a paradise for water-sport
enthusiasts. Windsurfing, water skiing, snorkeling,
swimming, sunbathing, exploring the canals by canoe and
diving are only a few of the activities that can be
enjoyed by the whole family. Emphasis is on outdoor
life, with the bracing sea air, sunshine and unspoilt
surroundings. Fishing in the deep sea, the river, the
surf and the rocks are all exciting possibilities with
bait being plentiful while the waters teem with many
"good eating" and game fish
The choices are varied – whether you need action or
leisure. It can be exciting and endless. Why not explore
the canals by boat or venture onto the Kromme River? If
you are a keen golfer, St Francis’ excellent 18 hole
links style golf course will give you exactly what you
need. As alternative you can surf, charter a fishing
vessel or do it on the rocks. If you’re young and want
the adrenalin to pump, try your hand at paintball from
this summer on.
The scenic beauty of this town will linger in your
mind long after you’re back in the reality of your day
to day life. Don’t miss it! |
