Port Elizabeth Beachfront Escape at Cape Recife Lighthouse
Discover Gqeberha’s most renowned seaside stay
Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa offers extraordinary accommodation within a stately lighthouse, featuring picturesque ocean views. Located in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa, it provides an unforgettable beachfront escape on an outstanding stretch of the Eastern Cape coastline at Algoa Bay, ideal for romantic getaways, family vacations, or adventurous explorers.
Accommodation
A unique self-catering accommodation in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), located in the Cape Recife Nature Reserve, offering a beautiful and biodiverse coastal area.
The Lighthouse
Learn about the history and significance of the Cape Recife Lighthouse and the military lookout bunker from World War 2, as well as enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the tower.
Things To Do
The Cape Recife Nature Reserve offers Marine Safari Excursions and Birding and Botanical Tours, allowing visitors to explore the marine wildlife and scenery of Cape Recife by vehicle, bike, or foot.
villa accommodation
Experience a unique stay at Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa! Our accommodation options cater to your preferences, whether you prefer the freedom of self-catering or the ease of having all your meals taken care of by our professional staff. The villa features two bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a coffee machine, and one shared bathroom with a shower and complimentary toiletries. Towels and bed linen are provided, as are several beach-holiday essentials like swimming towels, sun umbrella and board games. Guests can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, windsurfing, and diving, using their own equipment. Free private parking is available on-site.
Welcome to Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa
The original Portuguese name ‘Cape Recife’ translates to “Cape of the reefs,” a reference to the geological features of this south-eastern part of South Africa’s coastline upon which many ships met their end. A historic lighthouse was built on this promontory to guide vessels safely.
The Cape Recife Lighthouse was erected in 1851, with its first light beaming across the ocean on April 1st of that year. The lighthouse warns passing ships of the dangers of the romantically named Thunderbolt Reef – named after the HMS Thunderbolt, a British Royal Navy Sail and Paddle Frigate. Several natural hazards such as Thunderbolt Reef and Roman Rock, not far offshore, have claimed many a ship.
The lighthouse, a twenty-four-metre-high masonry tower, is octagonal in cross-section. Originally painted with four alternate bands of white and red, it changed in 1929 to the present black and white scheme.
A military lookout bunker from World War 2 also stands within the reserve, marking its historically strategic location.
The landmark structures found in the Cape Recife Nature Reserve are a jewel in South Africa’s tourism portfolio.
FLEXIBLE DINING OPTIONS
At Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa, guests can choose to prepare their own meals in the fully equipped kitchen, featuring a fridge-freezer, microwave, oven, gas stove, cutlery, crockery, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Our two permanent on-site staff members, Ashwin and Annnelize, will take care of all your needs from safety and local knowledge, guided trips to the lighthouse or surrounding areas, to cleaning and restocking the unit.
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, on advance request, our excellent chef is available to provide full catering services, offering delicious meals tailored to your tastes. Discuss your wishes with us beforehand so that Simon can curate the ideal menu for you! Whether a full-course meal or a casual beachside barbecue, we ensure a memorable dining experience.
Dining Options Tailored to You. Guests who prefer a self-catering experience will find the villa’s kitchen equipped with everything they need for meal preparation. Alternatively, let our catering team spoil you with fresh, locally-inspired dishes. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner services are available, featuring options such as buffets, continental meals, and traditional South African cuisine. Bon appétit!
Bon appétit!
The Latest News
Stay up-to-date with the latest happenings at Cape Recife Nature Reserve! Our ‘Latest News’ section features exciting new activities, tours, and events that you won’t want to miss. From Marine Safari Excursions to Birding and Botanical Tours, there’s always something new to discover at Cape Recife. So why wait? Check out our latest news today and stay in the loop!
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Reviews
Things to do around Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa
Reef Life
Always a favourite destination for divers and surfers, the fertile reefs offer a wealth of biodiversity.
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Family Friendly
This coastal destination is highly affordable to the average South African.
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Sun, Sea and Salty Breezes
Whether an early breakfast excursion or a sundowner bush and beach safari, the discoveries and photographic opportunities in the golden hours are endless.
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Walks and Hikes
Cape Recife is just perfect for easy hiking for almost any age and fitness level, and on the favourite things to do in Port Elizabeth.
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Cycling Cape Recife
Another awesome way to experience this gem that is Cape Recife Nature Reserve is by bike.
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Scenic Flights
Join us for a view that angels enjoy – this rugged and raw stretch of coastline is truly magnificent when experienced from the air.
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4 More Exciting Cape Recife Lighthouse Activities
For more information on the activities offered at Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa, please don’t hesitate to enquire with us today!
