The 'Venice-like' seaside town in Africa that looks like 'it was drawn from a dream'
The canals are lined with stunning properties and are perfect for exploring by kayak.
Africa is home to many stunning places. It’s the world’s second-largest continent, so there’s always plenty to choose from when it comes to a holiday. And while countries like Egypt, Morocco and Mauritius attract millions of visitors every year, some of the most beautiful coastal towns are still often overlooked by international tourists.
One of those hidden gems is St Francis Bay, a peaceful seaside town on South Africa’s southern coast that has left many visitors feeling like they’ve stepped into a dream. The town sits in the Eastern Cape, around an hour’s drive from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). It’s best known for its whitewashed houses, thatched roofs, and long winding canals, which many say give it a Venice-like feel.
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The town was designed with a canal system that stretches inland from the Kromme River, allowing boats to cruise past private homes and moorings.
These waterways are lined with stunning properties and are perfect for exploring by kayak, paddleboard or on a scenic boat ride.
According to St Francis Tourism, the canals are completely unique in South Africa, and combined with the town’s relaxed lifestyle, they create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else on the continent.
One visitor on TripAdvisor wrote: “St Francis Bay is truly amazing. It feels like it was drawn from a dream, so beautiful and peaceful.
“The houses with their special roofs and the canals are just lovely. A perfect place to relax.”
Another added: “St Francis Bay really reminded me of Venice with its canals. The homes on the water are beautiful. We also liked the Port St Francis harbour. Great for a relaxed holiday.”
The town isn’t just about the canals either. There are clean beaches, warm sea waters and plenty of outdoor activities.
From surfing and fishing to wildlife watching and golf, there’s something for every kind of traveller.
A third TripAdvisor reviewer said: “St Francis Bay is a fantastic spot by the sea. The canals are very pretty, but there's more to see, too.
“We enjoyed the beaches and even saw some dolphins. Good for chilling out or having an adventure.”
It’s also easy to reach. The nearest airport is in Gqeberha, and the drive to St Francis Bay takes just over an hour along the N2.
Nearby towns like Humansdorp and Cape St Francis are also worth a visit.