The Sunshine Coast, much as its name implies, basks in the sun for most of the year and is drenched in seaside charm. The 500km long stretch between the forest-clad slopes of the Tsitsikamma and the river port city of East London boasts rivers, lakes, lagoons, sub-tropical forests and quaint seaside villages that are just waiting to be explored. 

Tsitsikamma is an adrenaline junkie and outdoorsman’s Shangri-La packed with hiking and nature trails, scuba-diving and snorkelling sights, rock faces ideal for abseiling and rock climbing and the world’s highest bungee jump. St Frances Bay is home to a golf course designed by PGA pro Jack Nicklaus and neighbouring Jeffrey’s Bay is a surfing mecca and home to several annual competitions. Other seaside hamlets such as Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred are popular holiday resorts and share stretches of eggshell-coloured beaches with warm, inviting waters. 

Apart from a thriving ecosystem beneath the water’s surface, the area is also home to a variety of birdlife, wildlife and indigenous vegetation. Float along rivers and deltas; visit the array of nature reserves and game farms or stopover in the city where all possible amenities are readily available. The Sunshine Coast’s cities include Port Elizabeth and East London, both with airports that service major centres across the remainder of the country.

Sunshine Coast Highlights

  • Hiking, river rides, nature trails, abseiling and the world’s highest bungee jump from the spectacular Bloukrans bridge can be found in Tsitsikamma
  • Jeffrey’s Bay is a surfing mecca with its supertubes and consistent, right-hand break
  • Other seaside hamlets offer eggshell-coloured beaches with warm, inviting waters, and activities such as diving, kite surfing and canoeing
  • A variety of birdlife and indigenous vegetation can be found in nature reserves such as the Kabeljous Nature Reserve

Best time to go
Sunshine Coast

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Frequently Asked Questions

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting the Sunshine Coast.

  • Winter (May–September) offers optimal safari conditions, while summer brings newborn wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Timing is tailored to your interests.

  • Major international gateways include Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo), Cape Town, and Durban. From Johannesburg, charter flights reach private lodge airstrips in around 90 minutes, avoiding long road transfers. Light aircraft require soft bags and minimal luggage (a small trade-off for time and comfort).
    Self-driving is possible on well-maintained roads, but most luxury travellers prefer private transfers or flights after long-haul journeys.

  •  Sabi Sand for leopards, Timbavati for value, Eastern Cape for malaria-free travel. The “best” safari depends on your priorities.

  • Where you stay shapes your safari, so we match accommodation to your travel style – from honeymoons and family trips to conservation-led escapes.

    We generally prioritise private concessions for their exclusivity and conservation impact. Top choices include Sabi Sand Game Reserve (leopards and high-end lodges), Timbavati (excellent Big 5 value), Madikwe & Pilanesberg (malaria-free), and Tswalu (desert luxury with a strong conservation focus).

    Our Travel Experts recommend the right lodge for your priorities, whether that’s photography, romance, family ease, or purpose-driven travel.

  • Private concession safaris range from $500–$2,500 per person per night, depending on exclusivity and season. Our curated journeys typically start around $1,700, including meals, activities, and drinks.

    We recommend at least three nights in any safari location to move beyond sightings into understanding behaviour and rhythm.

  • With proper planning and expert guidance, South Africa is safe to travel. Private lodges maintain high security standards, and our locally based team provides real-time advice.

  • Yes, particularly along routes like the Garden Route. However, many guests prefer guided transfers or flights for comfort and efficiency.