Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Port Elizabeth

Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Port Elizabeth

Sprawling over 366 hectares on a headland at the tip of Algoa Bay, the Cape Recife Nature Reserve has some of the best beaches and views in Port Elizabeth.

Sprawling over 366 hectares on a headland at the tip of Algoa Bay, the Cape Recife Nature Reserve has some of the best beaches and views in Port Elizabeth. A 9 kilometre circular walking trail goes through pristine beaches, natural dune vegetation, and rocky outcrops, with great views of the sea and wildlife such as Roseate Tern, otters and the occasional penguin in the SANCCOB Penguin Rescue Station. The reclamation pond has a bird hide where ducks and wading birds can be viewed in the water and many species of reed birds can be spotted in the marsh, as well as the occasional otter. The lighthouse built in 1851 is still operational, and stands next to rock pools which are teeming with marine life such as sea urchins and anemones. There is also an old military observation post and barracks which are remnants of the defences put up during World War II.