Jeffreys Bay

CityEastern Cape, South Africa

Jeffreys Bay is a CITY in Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Jeffreys Bay, affectionately known as 'J-Bay,' is a coastal paradise in South Africa renowned for its world-class surfing, pristine beaches, and laid-back vibe. The town is home to the iconic Supertubes, a surf break that attracts professionals and enthusiasts alike during the annual J-Bay Open. Beyond surfing, Jeffreys Bay offers stunning nature reserves like the Kabeljous Estuary and Seekoei River Nature Reserve, perfect for birdwatching and hiking. The local culture is deeply rooted in surf culture, with vibrant surf shops, beachfront cafes, and a friendly, welcoming community. Don't miss the Shell Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of seashells, or the J-Bay Market for handmade crafts and local delicacies.

Best time to visit Jeffreys Bay

The best time to visit is from November to March for warm weather and surfing conditions. July hosts the J-Bay Open, attracting large crowds. Off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) offer quieter beaches and lower accommodation rates.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Overcast
Temperature
20°
Feels like
21°
Humidity
78%
Wind
12 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 21-27°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Increasing tourist numbers

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

PLZ

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (Port Elizabeth)

International

75 km away

GRJ

George Airport

Domestic

330 km away

CPT

Cape Town International Airport

International

680 km away

Getting around

"Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Jeffreys Bay and nearby attractions. Metered taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are available. Bicycles are popular for short distances, and walking is pleasant along the beachfront."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes, hotels, and some public areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or in town from $5

Calling code

27

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty crime possible; avoid isolated areas at night.

Night safety

7/10

Petty crime possible; avoid isolated areas at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Avoid walking alone at night, especially on secluded beaches. Keep valuables secure and out of sight. Be cautious of strong currents when swimming or surfing."

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs. Sun protection is essential due to strong UV rays. Medical facilities are available, but travel insurance is advised for serious emergencies."

Culture

Local customs

"Surf culture is central to Jeffreys Bay—respect local surfers and wait your turn in the lineup. Tipping 10-15% in restaurants is customary. Casual beachwear is acceptable, but cover up when visiting town centers."
AfrikaansEnglishXhosa

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8 | a cheap local meal costs ~$8

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Surf lessons and equipment rental extra.

Timezone

Africa/Johannesburg +02:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

0.03 million

Area

19.8 km²

Government

Local Municipality

ISO code

JBA

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: 杰弗里斯贝, Jeffreys Bay

BeachSurfingFamily-FriendlyHikingWildlifeWater Sports