Surfing in Cape St Francis, South Africa: Surf Camps, Lessons, and Travel Guide
Introduction to Surfing Cape St Francis
Cape St Francis is an Eastern Cape surf paradise at the edge of South Africa’s famous surf coast, renowned for its world-class point breaks, pristine beaches, and the legendary waves. This small coastal village offers consistent Indian Ocean swells, warm water, and a relaxed vibe that draws surfers from around the globe.
Just 90 minutes from Port Elizabeth, Cape St Francis serves as a perfect surf base with access to multiple quality breaks and a strong local surf culture to assist in the dream of catching some waves, or improving on the basics.
Some surfers from Lucky Fish Surf Guides enjoying a picnic with a pumping point break in the background.
Best Season to Surf Cape St Francis
- May to September – Winter Months: Largest swell season. The winter brings the biggest Indian Ocean waves, most consistent swells, and typically offshore winds for classic point break sessions. Yet, it is typically not recommended for beginners, as the waves are too large.
- October to March – Summer Months: Beginner Recommendation. Summer offers warmer water and fun beachbreak waves, though conditions can be windier. The playful waves and warmer weather, make the windy conditions irrelevant.
- Shoulder Season – Spring: October, which plays on the shoulder season of Winter and Summer, is a perfect month to go. The transition of this time of the year still provides overall good conditions.
Sometimes pictures don’t need explanations. And this is one of them. Photo provided by Lucky Fish Surf Guides.
Surf Spots and Beaches in Cape St Francis
St. Francis Bay
St. Francis Bay is the heart of Cape St Francis surfing, featuring the iconic Cape St Francis Point with its multiple right-hand reefs—making it one of South Africa’s best waves. The area delivers long rides for adept surfers alongside beachbreaks that work for intermediates and beginners. The pristine white sands, turquoise water, and seal colony add to the magic of sessions here.
A little showcase of the potential of Cape St Francis.
Surf Camps and Lessons
Lucky Fish Surf Guides provides professional surf guiding, lessons, and progression coaching around the Cape St Francis area. Lifelong surfers and founders, Simon Fish and Matt Davis, take you on a mission of finding the best waves, sharing the ride, and of course, creating an experience you will never forget.
With the opportunity to take a beginner lesson near Cape St Francis, head to Jeffereys Bay, or, for the more adept surfers, escape to the wild coast to find some mystical breaks, Lucky Fish Surf Guides assists you in your goal of finding that perfect session.
Co-Founder Matthew Davis, walking with a stoked student after scoring some fun waves.
Other Things to Do in Cape St Francis
- Seal colony viewing: One of the largest cape fur seal colonies in the Eastern Cape.
- Cape St Francis lighthouse: Historic landmark with panoramic views.
- Kayak tours: Explore the point and caves from the water.
- Golf course: St Francis Links—world-class layout among the dunes.
- Canal walks: Unique white-sand canal system through the village.
Conclusion on Surfing Cape St Francis
Cape St Francis offers some of South Africa’s most picturesque and high-quality surf, with the legendary Cape St Francis Point leading the way. Its combination of world-class waves, warm water, and uncrowded sessions makes it a bucket-list destination for serious surfers and beginners alike.
In a place like this, where there are waves year-round, it practically guarantees a fun session to happen!
A battalion of groms preparing to take on some waves with Lucky Fish Surf Guides.
FAQ: Surf Travel to Cape St Francis
What’s the best wave here?
Cape St Francis Point—definitely. Other famous local waves are popular as well.
Is it beginner-friendly?
Beachbreaks are perfect for learners, but the point itself is primarily an intermediate/advanced destination.
Water temperature?
Wetsuits of 4/3 are recommended during winter times. During the summer season, a 2/3 spring suit is sufficient.
How crowded does it get?
The point sees traveling pro surfers but remains less crowded than J-Bay. Beach breaks remain uncrowded for beginners.
Airport access?
Port Elizabeth Airport (75km/90min drive) serves the area perfectly.
Are there other beginner and intermediate locations with Surf Camps and Lessons in South Africa?
Definitely! There are tons of locations that provide just that. Check out our Surfing in South Africa Travel Guide.