Hotels in East London

Coral Shores and Urban Vibes: Discover the Hidden Charms of East London

Nestled along the southeastern coast of South Africa, East London is a hidden gem that beautifully marries beach bliss with cultural richness. Renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, this coastal city offers a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Stroll along the scenic Nahoon Beach, dive into the underwater wonders of the coral reefs, or explore the lush landscapes of the nearby Wild Coast. With its warm hospitality, rich history, and eclectic local markets, East London invites travelers to experience a unique blend of relaxation and adventure in a captivating coastal setting. For the best hotel rates in East London, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in East London

Some of the best places to stay in East London are Quigney Beach and Southernwood. East London, Eastern Cape, offers unique attractions for travelers. Quigney Beach is known for its beautiful coastline, ideal for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Southernwood, with its vibrant community and proximity to amenities, provides a charming urban experience. Accommodations in both areas range from budget-friendly hotels to boutique options, catering to various preferences. For first-time visitors, Quigney Beach is the top choice, offering a quintessential coastal experience while still being close to local attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in East London:

1. Quigney BeachOpens in a new window: Quigney Beach is a vibrant coastal area in East London, perfect for beach lovers and families. With its proximity to popular beaches like Eastern Beach, Nahoon Beach, and Bonza Bay Beach, it offers a relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing and water sports. The area caters to various travelers, including business and family visitors. Notable hotels include Premier Hotel East London ICCOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering beach access and amenities for business travelers and children. The Hampton Exclusive Guest HouseOpens in a new window is another option, providing a guesthouse experience with business facilities. For a cozy stay, consider African Dreams Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a bed and breakfast that combines beach access with family-friendly services.
2. SouthernwoodOpens in a new window: Southernwood is an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a blend of urban and natural experiences. It is conveniently located near Eastern Beach, Nahoon Beach, and Bonza Bay Beach, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities. The area features a mix of hotels like 1st Class Manor B&BOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star bed and breakfast focused on business travelers. For a boutique experience, Park Place Boutique GuesthouseOpens in a new window offers stylish accommodations with direct beach access. If you're seeking luxury, Prana LodgeOpens in a new window provides a 5.0-star experience with unique decor and golf amenities, perfect for a more upscale stay.

What to do in East London

East London offers travelers a vibrant mix of stunning white sand beaches and coral reefs, perfect for surfing and wildlife encounters. Enjoy activities like boating, sea diving, and exploring lush parks, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to East London:

• Kwelera Island Local Nature Reserve: This stunning nature reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The reserve features diverse ecosystems, including coastal dunes and wetlands, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and hiking. You can explore scenic trails while enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
• Kidd's Beach: A picturesque beach that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its golden sands and gentle waves, Kidd's Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The nearby facilities make it easy to spend a whole day soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze.
• Yellow Sands: Renowned for its stunning coastline and impressive rock formations, Yellow Sands is a great destination for outdoor activities like surfing, fishing, and picnicking. The beach is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful day by the sea where you can unwind and connect with nature.
• Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve: For an unforgettable safari experience, visit Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve. This reserve offers guided tours where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. The stunning landscapes and luxury accommodations make it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in South Africa's rich biodiversity.

5 tips to find a great East London hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit East London is during May, July, and October, when hotel rates are more affordable. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance for the best prices, while domestic travelers can save by booking at least six months ahead. To truly enjoy the area, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, allowing you to explore its beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs. This way, you can experience all that East London has to offer while keeping your trip great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodations in East London, consider exploring last-minute deals that can offer significant discounts. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you're more likely to find reduced rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, you could enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in East London.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in East London usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can explore the area using transportation options like driving, taking the bus, or walking, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in East London and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in East London

Here are a few popular dishes in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa:

• Bunny Chow: A unique street food originating from Durban, bunny chow consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with flavorful curry. In East London, you can find variations that showcase local flavors, often featuring chicken, lamb, or bean curries. This dish reflects the region's Indian influence and is perfect for a casual meal, allowing diners to enjoy the rich spices while savoring the bread as they go.
• Bobotie: This traditional Cape Malay dish is a must-try when in East London. Bobotie features spiced minced meat, typically beef or lamb, baked with a creamy custard topping. It often includes curry powder, dried fruits like raisins, and is served with yellow rice and chutney, creating a delightful sweet and savory balance. Enjoying bobotie offers a glimpse into the cultural fusion that characterizes South African cuisine.

Best time to go to East London

East London experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 61.9°F (16.6°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.0°F (22.8°C). February tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit East London are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, May, August, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.