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We're bringing great self-catering accommodation to St Francis Baysoon. In the meantime, explore what's available across the Eastern Cape.
Browse all propertiesSt Francis Bay is the kind of place where you arrive for a weekend and start looking at property by Monday. The town is built around a network of canals, whitewashed houses with thatched roofs, and a genuinely beautiful stretch of coastline that runs from the harbour at Port St Francis all the way to Cape St Francis. It's quieter than J-Bay, more polished than most Eastern Cape beach towns, and has a strong community feel that visitors pick up on quickly.
The best time to visit is between November and March when the water is warm enough for swimming and the days are long. Easter is popular too — expect a full town and higher rates. For a quieter trip, April and May offer mild weather and empty beaches.
Three highlights: paddle a canoe through the canal system — it's flat, easy, and gives you a completely different view of the village. Walk the Seal Point Lighthouse trail in Cape St Francis, where the coastline is rocky, dramatic, and full of birdlife. And if you're here on a Saturday, the St Francis Market is a solid morning outing with good coffee, local crafts, and fresh bread. St Francis suits couples, small families, and groups of friends who want somewhere upmarket but not stiff. Self-catering here means you cook at your own pace, braai when you feel like it, and eat out at one of the village restaurants when you don't.
Local tip: ask your host about the Kromme River mouth. It's a short drive from town and one of the best spots for kite surfing, bird watching, or just floating in the shallows with the kids. Most tourists never make it there, which is exactly why it's worth going.
What is St Francis Bay known for?
St Francis Bay is known for its iconic whitewashed thatched homes, canal system, Seal Point Lighthouse, and the Bruce's Beauties surf break at Cape St Francis.
Is St Francis Bay pet-friendly?
Many self-catering properties in St Francis Bay welcome pets. Filter by pet-friendly on our search page to find suitable options.
What is the difference between St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis?
St Francis Bay is the main village with canals, the marina, and most accommodation. Cape St Francis is the headland to the south — more rugged, with the lighthouse and the famous surf break.
How far is St Francis Bay from Jeffreys Bay?
St Francis Bay is approximately 18km from Jeffreys Bay, about a 20-minute drive.