Warm greetings from the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is the coastal route between St Francis Bay and East London in the Eastern Cape. The region offers African safaris, unspoiled beaches, warm waters, rich historical sites, scenic splendour, lush vegitation and quaint seaside towns and villages, making the sunshine coast a veritable travel destination for the tourist and holiday maker. The weather is dominated by the Agulhas Current, which keeps water temperatures warm-ish in winter and warm in summer, often reaching above 22°C. Air temperatures in summer are warm to hot. In winter, the weather is mild, with cold spells. Along the coastline rain falls mostly in summer.

• Port Alfred
  Port Alfred lies on the banks of the Kowie River, 30km from Grahamstown. Its beaches are popular amongst local and foreign tourists alike. The range of interesting activities in Port Alfred include horse-riding, surfing, golf, boating, water-skiing, hiking, boat cruises, canoeing, fishing, diving, and nearby malaria-free game reserves. Port Alfred also provides five minute drive to shopping centre, as well as beauty, wellness and day spas. Shelly Beach Cottages provide elegant guest house accommodation.

• Bathurst
  Bathurst was founded in 1820 and named after the colonial secretary of the British government, Lord Bathurst. This quaint village is a mere ten minuties drive from Port Alfred, on the road to Grahamstown. Bathurst is home to numerous stores and small factories including a spice factory, pottery, books, baskets, arts and crafts, restaurants, nurseries, historical sites and of course, the Big Pineapple, which stands 16.7m high. Bathurst also boasts beautiful beaches.