Bordering the beach at Cape St Francis and just 90 minutes from Port Elizabeth airport, Cape St Francis Resort ticks all the boxes as a perfect beach holiday destination. Cape St Francis Resorts’ unique setting with a selection of accommodation options from conventional hotel rooms, three and four bedroom cottages or luxury beach villas appeals to couples, families and anyone who loves a beach holiday. All are suitable for either a bed and breakfast choice or a self-catering option.
Renowned as a water sport paradise with surfing, kite-surfing, surf ski and canoe paddling on the beautiful waters off both Cape St Francis and St Francis Bay’s as well as on the nearby Kromme River. For golfers, the top ten rated St Francis Links offers the keen golfer an excellent challenge of links golf with the nearby St Francis Bay Golf Club offering an easier but still challenging round of golf.
With the mildest temperatures and the longest sunshine hours on the coast, Cape St Francis is a unique and exclusive paradise on the South African southern coast which draws holidaymakers from all over the world to enjoy the glorious beaches, excellent water-sport facilities, leisurely lifestyle and the magical beauty of the unspoilt surroundings.
Cape St Francis Resort – Discover this unique and exclusive paradise on the Eastern Cape coast which draws holiday makers from all over the world.
Cape St Francis Resort Activities
ST FRANCIS CANAL AND RIVER CRUISES
Experience the beautiful St Francis Bay Canals and Kromme River on a luxury 12 seater barge.
Built in 1967, the canal system of St Francis Bay has become a leading South African tourist destination. Sit back, relax and enjoy the tranquil canal waters as your professional skipper escorts you through the waterways offering you wonderful views of the architecture, wildlife and as evening draws in, the spectacular sunsets.
Our luxury imported 12 seater barge known as ‘River Break’ is designed and licensed to carry up to 12 passengers on the waterways of not only the canals but also the Kromme and Geelhout Rivers.
RiverBreak activities are tailored to suit the needs of the individual or group with trips ranging from a 1 hour cruise around the canal systems to a full day excursion up the Kromme or Geelhout Rivers. A minimum of 2 people is required to book River Break but commonly is shared amongst guests.
Guests have the option of bringing their own refreshments or all catering can be done through the famous Joe Fish Restaurant and prices can be structured to include South African wine, beer and cider.
ST FRANCIS HIKING AND NATURE WALKS
Experience the natural beauty of Cape St Francis and the surrounding area via stunning reserve and coastal walks
Cape St Francis is home to no less than five beautiful nature reserves, Cape St Francis Nature Reserve, Seal Point Nature Reserve, Seal Bay Nature Reserve, St Francis Field Nature Reserve and Irma Booysen Flora Reserve.
These reserves offer a wide variety of walks suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. These walks, hikes and trails take you through natural coastal lands filled with indigenous plant and wild life.
CHOKKA TRAIL
Experience the area with a 4 day/3 night ‘Chokka Trail’
Three picturesque fishing villages, a rugged coastline, sand dunes as far as the eye can see, a tidal river, protected fynbos, wetlands and a visit to South Africa’s only privately owned working harbor.
These are the ingredients that make up the Chokka Trail, a slack packing trail between Oyster Bay, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis. This is the best possible opportunity to see and experience just how beautiful the area is – on foot, at your own pace and with overnight accommodation at guesthouses and Cape St Francis Resort.
Cape St Francis Resort Conference
A Truly Unique Location For All Your Conferencing Requirements
Cape St Francis Resort offers conferencing set in a refreshing environment to revitalise delegates and encourage corporate team spirit.
Offering accommodation to suit all budgets, conferencing and team building facilities, on site restaurant plus a health and beauty studio all situated a stone’s throw from the pristine beach and warm Indian Ocean, Cape St Francis Resort truly is a unique location for all your conferencing requirements.
Tailor made conferencing for up to 300 delegates
Our 3 state-of-the-art conference venues are all equipped with the necessary presentation equipment and can accommodate up to 300 delegates. A peaceful environment, flexible agendas, friendly personalized service and professionalism dictate our approach toward each and every event. Each venue can be set up to suit your needs and requirements.
- The Space, our largest conference room, can accommodate up to 300 delegates theatre style.
- The Chapel & Theatre can accommodate up to 160 delegates theatre style.
- The Francolin Room can accommodate a maximum of 35 delegates.
For smaller groups up to a maximum of 15 delegates you can also use our luxury beach villa – Beach Break.
All of our conference rooms come equipped with the following equipment:
- Whiteboard and flip charts.
- Data Projector.
- DVD player.
- Public address sound system.
- Pens and paper for the use of delegates.
- Iced water and mints for the enjoyment of delegates.
- All of the conference venues are air conditioned.
The following facilities are also available to conferences:
- A full range of other specialist AV equipment can be supplied on request.
- Secretarial service, fax, telephone, internet and photocopying facilities.
Spouse program
Breakaway rooms are also available for when a conference needs to break up into separate work groups or syndicates.
There are many areas in our gardens where one can set up as breakaways.
ST FRANCIS CONFERENCE ROOMS AND FACILITIES
Cape St Francis Conference Venue has a variety of conference rooms available which can accommodate groups of different sizes.
- The Space, our largest conference room, can accommodate up to 300 delegates theatre style.
- The Chapel & Theatre, which can accommodate up to 160 delegates theatre style.
- The Francolin Room, which can accommodate a maximum of 35 delegates, and
- Beach Break, which can accommodate a maximum of 15 delegates.
All of our conference rooms come equipped with with following equipment:
- Overhead projector and screen.
- Whiteboard and flip charts.
- VCR and monitor.
- Data Projector.
- DVD player.
- Public address sound system.
- Pens and paper for the use of delegates.
- Iced water and mints for the enjoyment of delegates.
- All of the conference are air conditioned.
The following facilities are also available to conferences:
- A full range of other specialist AV equipment can be supplied on request.
- Secretarial service, fax, telephone, internet and photocopying facilities.
- Spouse program.
- Breakaway rooms are also available for when a conference needs to break up into separate work groups or syndicates.
Cape St Francis Resort Facilities
RECEPTION AND SHOP
Whether you need to check in or check out, book a meal, or simply find out what’s happening in and around Cape St Francis Resort… our friendly reception staff are here to help.
With so many activities in and around Cape St Francis our reception staff are here to assist you with booking your chosen excursions. From surf lessons, trail walks, bicylcle hire to bungee jumping and sky diving, there really is so much to choose from, the biggest decision is which one will you do first!
One of the most popular excursion is known as ‘Betty’s Tour’ due to the fact your wonderful host is our very own Betty Anoster.
CLOTHING, CLASSROOMS AND CONSERVATION ALL IN ONE DAY
Betty’s Tour – Our Social Responsibility Initiative
For the last 2yrs Cape St Francis Resort has been taking guests on a wonderful tour of local community projects and businesses. These insightful excursions offer participants the opportunity to meet everyone involved and really get to know the what, who and why’s of each individual business and the people involved.
The tour known affectionately as ‘Betty’s Tours’ as Betty Anoster from Cape St Francis Resort is the tour leader, takes you to three very different places. Starting with some very dedicated folk at Cape St Francis’ based SANCCOB rehabilitation centre.
Get up close and personal with some feathered friends
Based next door to the light house in Cape St Francis the SANCCOB rehabilitation centre is a leading marine non-profit organization with a vision to conserve seabirds and other sea-life, especially threatened species such as the African penguin.
SANCCOB protects and treats seabirds affected by major and chronic oil pollution, and shares its specialist skills with the international community, such as providing services in Africa, the Indian Ocean region, and the Sub-Antarctic.
SANCCOB’s research focuses on improving knowledge that will improve the conservation of seabirds in the wild, and improve our ability to care for seabirds during their rehabilitation process.
Visitors on ‘Betty’s Tour’s’ are given a unique behind-the-scenes tour from one of the staff and allowed access to meet the penguins and other sea birds, gaining a wonderful perspective on all the hard work SANCCOB employees provide.
Our convenience store has everything you need
Within reception you will also find our convenience shop offering all manner of produce. So if you’ve forgotten your toothbrush, need braai wood, or have just got back from the beach and in need of a refreshing icecream, our shop has everything you need.
Everyday the talented chefs from our award winning Joe Fish Restaurant produce freshly home made pies and sandwiches but get there early before they sell out! Many of the ingredients are organically grown at our Bat and Boerboom farm on the Geelhout River.
There’s even a frozen section offering stunning free range chicken, local boerewors, and family size savoury pies.
Aside from the basics, the shop also stocks a beautiful range of clothing including, beach sarongs, dresses, childrenswear, men’s and women’s t-shirts and caps.
Interact with local kids at a children’s school
From SANCCOB guests are then taken into the heart of the local township known as ’Sea Vista’ to meet some very special kids at the Talhado Children’s Haven.
Talhado Children’s Haven was started to address the needs of disadvantaged children in the area of St Francis Bay. Pre-primary education and a safe place to play, under adult care, were needed. The school now provides both for over 400 children. All the fundraising for the Haven is done on a voluntary basis.
Through ’Betty’s Tour’ you will meet these wonderful children and the teachers who care for them. The children always have a smile and song and love meeting new people and in return visitors are left with some wonderful memories and some new friends!
Meet some talented locals and maybe buy a garment or two
Just down the road from Talhado’s is Nomvula’s which is the final destination on the tour.
Nomvula (nom Voo la) meaning “she who brings the rain” in Xhosa is considered a lucky name because any sign of rain in Southern Africa is gratefully received.
Starting as a knitting group by Frances Becker in 2008, Nomvulas has quickly turned into a fully fledged business with approx 15 full time knitters.
Although Nomvulas is still a small business it has developed a strong client base which keeps the pace of work consistent and provides a sustainable income for the staff.
The concept of the company is to train the knitters in the art of manufacturing, marketing, and running a business with the goal to eventually own the business. Nomvula’s is not a charity and its goal is profit driven. What makes the company extra special is the knitters run it as their own business with the guidance and direction of Frances. They understand that what they put in, they get out both financially and emotionally.
As part of ’Betty’s Tours’ you will be given a personal tour by one of the knitters who will provide insight into what they do and how they do it. The products produced are simply stunning and you will be spoilt for choice with the wide range of clothing and accessories.
Cape St Francis Resort Golf Course
Bunkers, lakes, long drives and beautifully tendered greens draw golfers to the area year after year!
Famously known for it’s surfing, The St Francis Bay area also offers 2 outstanding, and very different, golf courses.
Firstly there is ‘The St Francis Bay Golf Club’ situated within the heart of the picturesque village of St Francis. This full 18 hole course offers challenging holes for all levels, from short lake holes to long driver par 5s.
As you head over the road to the 11th – 15th holes, sea views and crashing wave back drops will emphasize the beauty of where you are playing.
The 19th hole or club house offers a wide variety of snacks, meals and drinks with stunning views across the course. Sit back and watch as the golfers finish their round on the 18th.
A golf course built around natural beauty
In the early 14th century, either in Scotland’s eastern Lothians or in the Netherlands, where the game was called Kalvin, golf began.
The links land was the marginal land lying between the beaches and the arable fields and only good for grazing sheep and rabbits and bleaching cloth.
Open to the elements, the game was played on the links grasses between the dunes and the bush.
’St Francis Links’ , the second course in St Francis Bay, may not have been grazing land for sheep and rabbits, but a natural course between the beach and arable land it is. Jack Nicklaus has had the pleasure of taking Mother Nature’s best piece of links land and signed his name to something unique. ’St Francis Links’ challenges all who play it and rewards those who respect it.
The layout combines every element of shot making with its undulating terrain, greens and surrounds as well as its variation in length and direction.
The bunkers look as though they have been ploughed out of the land. The bunkering truly defines the quality and character of ’St Francis Links’. Others courses have a links “look”. Here you will see what separates ’St Francis Links’ from the rest – a consistent look throughout. One will agree that, almost from the opening shot, ’St Francis Links’ carries a look and feel that breathes history from bygone times.
The shape greens’ shape comes from the natural movement of the land. The greens have simply been placed on top of the sand, changing shape as the wind changed its mind. Some are more undulating than others. All putting surfaces and green surrounds present a mental and physical test.
’St Francis Links’ is South Africa’s Pure Links!
Booking through Cape St Francis Resort as a guest will equate to a more favourable green fee.
A little bit of golfing history
The origins of the St Francis Bay Golf Club date back to 1975 when Leighton Hulett, the developer of the area then known as Sea Vista, opened a 9-hole private golf course. He employed Robert Grimsdell, who also designed courses such as Mowbray, Durban Country Club and Hans Merensky CC, to design the nine-hole private course which was opened in 1975.
In December 1976 the first Committee was elected and the club was named “The Cape St. Francis Golf Club”. The first Chairman was the late Buller Pagden. In the early 1980’s the village changed its name to St Francis Bay, and the club likewise became “St. Francis Bay Golf Club”. During this period the course was also developed from sandy to lush fairways and greens (exclusively Poa Annua) to achieve its acknowledged status as the best nine hole course in the Eastern Cape and South Africa’s best kept secret.
The course has undergone many changes since the original Grimsdell design was developed by Maxwell Hulett, the most significant which was the construction of an additional nine holes. As a result of the decision taken in 1997, the Club now has a full eighteen-hole course which was finally opened in December 1999.
The popularity of ’The St Francis Bay Golf Course’ and the “Calamari Classic” (a three-day tournament run in September each year) in particular has been evident when one looks at the list of players frequenting the Club. This list is made up of resident members as well as up-country members and visitors who travel from all over the country and abroad to come and play at ’The St Francis Bay GC’.
Booking through Cape St Francis Resort as a guest will ensure more favourable green fees.
And finally a lovely little 9 hole course…
A short drive to Humansdorp, just pass the N2 junction will lead you to one final course in the area – Zwartenbosch Golf Club. Although set out over 9 holes, this course offers different tee boxes for holes 10 -18. Not as popular as the 2 St Francis Bay based courses this hidden treasure is usually less busy and therefore can prove a more relaxing and peaceful affair.
The course is well maintained and offers a variety of challenging holes.
Cape St Francis Resort Weddings
LOOKING FOR A SEASIDE WEDDING VENUE?
Have your fairy-tale wedding at Cape ST Francis Resort
Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life. We also know it can be one of the most stressful if not handled correctly. Here at Cape St Francis Resort we understand that attention to detail is of paramount importance in order to exceed your every expectation.
Our highly skilled staff are on hand to ensure the smooth running of this very special day leaving you to relax and soak in this wonderful experience. From initial discussions to the big event we will assist you through the entire experience.
Due to the stunning location of Cape St Francis Resort, there are a number of options when it comes to wedding venues. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach wedding or a traditional chapel wedding we have the perfect place for you to tie the knot.
Cape St Francis Resort can accommodate up to 200 guests and, as your wedding guests, they will enjoy reduced accommodation rates. Accommodation is available to suit all budgets, from apartments, family cottages through to our 5-star beach villas.
WEDDING VENUE OPTIONS
Beach Break 5-star villa
- For ceremonies only, Beach Break can cater for 200 guests seated.
- For your ceremony and reception, Beach Break can cater for 30 guests maximum.
- Beach Break premises are subject to their own Liquor License.
Beach Break rates are available on request, as Beach Break rates are seasonal, we tailor the quote to your requirements.
Cape St Francis beach
Chapel and Theatre
Now as husband and wife it’s time to be greeted by your guests, enjoy a delicious tailor made lunch or dinner (depending on the time of your wedding ceremony), listen to the speeches then let your hair down and dance the night away…
ADDITIONAL RECEPTION VENUE OPTIONS
Beach Break
Regardless of where you had your ceremony, our 5-star Beach Break villa is available as a reception venue. Enjoy your reception with stunning ocean views and magical sunsets. Suitable for smaller intimate weddings Beach Break can accommodate up to 30 guests. POA
The Space
Our largest reception venue offers seating for up to 200 guests with ample room to dance the night away. The Space offers wooden floors, creating warmth and an elegant ambiance with its own entrance and veranda for welcome drinks.
Hire for all venues includes (excluding Beach Break):
- Hire till 12.30 am after that a levy per half hour or part thereof will apply.
- Tables, chairs, cutlery, crockery and glassware white linen table cloths and serviettes per guest.
- Joe Fish Bar is not included in venue hire but a private bar in either venue can be arranged.
- Barmen and Waitresses depending on the number of guests and entirely at our discretion.
Joe Fish Restaurant
Our award winning pool side restaurant is the perfect venue. Seating up to 70 guests the restaurant incorporates the outside swimming pool and decked area.
For larger weddings (up to 120 guests) why not add a Moroccan stretch tent over the pool? Our Moroccan stretch tent is erected to cover the pool and deck area. Our stage covering half the pool is popular with this venue.
The Chapel and Theatre
Aside from a traditional ceremony this venue also makes for a wonderful reception area. With its own wooden staircase, wooden floors, beams, chandeliers, stage and toilet facilities this venue is perfect for up to 100 seated guests.
Music
DJ’s or Musicians are allowed to play until 24H00 (midnight), thereafter the music must be turned down out of consideration for our neighbours.
It’s not just about ’The Big Day’ – Pre and post wedding get-togethers
As your guests will be staying on our Estate we suggest that you consider a pre- or post-wedding get together. We can host a pre-wedding dinner at our award winning pool side restaurant – Joe Fish or a fun “Build-a-Burger’ or ‘Braai” evening with wines at reduced rates. The following day we can host a post-wedding “Champagne Brunch” on our deck, the perfect farewell final get-together. With any style wedding it’s the details that matter, from table decorations, menus through to the choice of music for your reception.
Cape St Francis Resort Gallery
Cape St Francis Resort Tripadvisor
We had a warm welcome on arrival and all the staff we came into contact with were very friendly and helpful for the duration of our stay. Keep up the great work. We will definitely refer you to others and will be back. Thank you for a great stay. – 617janiner
For quiet friendly break a way ,save and awesome waves from point or beach break ,lovely open beaches for long far walks with nature being left to be respected for its beauty.kind and good people looking out for each other thank u Cape st Francis for a lovely stay Team Hillbillies SA electrical skateboards and Segway. – hillbillies996
A group of friends spent a wonderful long weekend at Cape St Francis Resort. The staff were really attentive & made sure that we enjoyed our stay. It is ideally located just a stones throw from the white sands of the bay at Cape St Francis. The apartments are very spacious & well equiped. – 594arthurf
Cape St Francis Resort Enquire Now
- Activities
-
Cape St Francis Resort Activities
ST FRANCIS CANAL AND RIVER CRUISES
Experience the beautiful St Francis Bay Canals and Kromme River on a luxury 12 seater barge.
Built in 1967, the canal system of St Francis Bay has become a leading South African tourist destination. Sit back, relax and enjoy the tranquil canal waters as your professional skipper escorts you through the waterways offering you wonderful views of the architecture, wildlife and as evening draws in, the spectacular sunsets.
Our luxury imported 12 seater barge known as ‘River Break’ is designed and licensed to carry up to 12 passengers on the waterways of not only the canals but also the Kromme and Geelhout Rivers.
RiverBreak activities are tailored to suit the needs of the individual or group with trips ranging from a 1 hour cruise around the canal systems to a full day excursion up the Kromme or Geelhout Rivers. A minimum of 2 people is required to book River Break but commonly is shared amongst guests.
Guests have the option of bringing their own refreshments or all catering can be done through the famous Joe Fish Restaurant and prices can be structured to include South African wine, beer and cider.
ST FRANCIS HIKING AND NATURE WALKS
Experience the natural beauty of Cape St Francis and the surrounding area via stunning reserve and coastal walks
Cape St Francis is home to no less than five beautiful nature reserves, Cape St Francis Nature Reserve, Seal Point Nature Reserve, Seal Bay Nature Reserve, St Francis Field Nature Reserve and Irma Booysen Flora Reserve.
These reserves offer a wide variety of walks suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. These walks, hikes and trails take you through natural coastal lands filled with indigenous plant and wild life.
CHOKKA TRAIL
Experience the area with a 4 day/3 night ‘Chokka Trail’
Three picturesque fishing villages, a rugged coastline, sand dunes as far as the eye can see, a tidal river, protected fynbos, wetlands and a visit to South Africa’s only privately owned working harbor.
These are the ingredients that make up the Chokka Trail, a slack packing trail between Oyster Bay, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis. This is the best possible opportunity to see and experience just how beautiful the area is – on foot, at your own pace and with overnight accommodation at guesthouses and Cape St Francis Resort.
- Conferences & Events
-
Cape St Francis Resort Conference
A Truly Unique Location For All Your Conferencing Requirements
Cape St Francis Resort offers conferencing set in a refreshing environment to revitalise delegates and encourage corporate team spirit.
Offering accommodation to suit all budgets, conferencing and team building facilities, on site restaurant plus a health and beauty studio all situated a stone’s throw from the pristine beach and warm Indian Ocean, Cape St Francis Resort truly is a unique location for all your conferencing requirements.
Tailor made conferencing for up to 300 delegates
Our 3 state-of-the-art conference venues are all equipped with the necessary presentation equipment and can accommodate up to 300 delegates. A peaceful environment, flexible agendas, friendly personalized service and professionalism dictate our approach toward each and every event. Each venue can be set up to suit your needs and requirements.
- The Space, our largest conference room, can accommodate up to 300 delegates theatre style.
- The Chapel & Theatre can accommodate up to 160 delegates theatre style.
- The Francolin Room can accommodate a maximum of 35 delegates.
For smaller groups up to a maximum of 15 delegates you can also use our luxury beach villa – Beach Break.
All of our conference rooms come equipped with the following equipment:
- Whiteboard and flip charts.
- Data Projector.
- DVD player.
- Public address sound system.
- Pens and paper for the use of delegates.
- Iced water and mints for the enjoyment of delegates.
- All of the conference venues are air conditioned.
The following facilities are also available to conferences:
- A full range of other specialist AV equipment can be supplied on request.
- Secretarial service, fax, telephone, internet and photocopying facilities.
Spouse program
Breakaway rooms are also available for when a conference needs to break up into separate work groups or syndicates.
There are many areas in our gardens where one can set up as breakaways.ST FRANCIS CONFERENCE ROOMS AND FACILITIES
Cape St Francis Conference Venue has a variety of conference rooms available which can accommodate groups of different sizes.
- The Space, our largest conference room, can accommodate up to 300 delegates theatre style.
- The Chapel & Theatre, which can accommodate up to 160 delegates theatre style.
- The Francolin Room, which can accommodate a maximum of 35 delegates, and
- Beach Break, which can accommodate a maximum of 15 delegates.
All of our conference rooms come equipped with with following equipment:
- Overhead projector and screen.
- Whiteboard and flip charts.
- VCR and monitor.
- Data Projector.
- DVD player.
- Public address sound system.
- Pens and paper for the use of delegates.
- Iced water and mints for the enjoyment of delegates.
- All of the conference are air conditioned.
The following facilities are also available to conferences:
- A full range of other specialist AV equipment can be supplied on request.
- Secretarial service, fax, telephone, internet and photocopying facilities.
- Spouse program.
- Breakaway rooms are also available for when a conference needs to break up into separate work groups or syndicates.
- Facilities
-
Cape St Francis Resort Facilities
RECEPTION AND SHOP
Whether you need to check in or check out, book a meal, or simply find out what’s happening in and around Cape St Francis Resort… our friendly reception staff are here to help.
With so many activities in and around Cape St Francis our reception staff are here to assist you with booking your chosen excursions. From surf lessons, trail walks, bicylcle hire to bungee jumping and sky diving, there really is so much to choose from, the biggest decision is which one will you do first!
One of the most popular excursion is known as ‘Betty’s Tour’ due to the fact your wonderful host is our very own Betty Anoster.
CLOTHING, CLASSROOMS AND CONSERVATION ALL IN ONE DAY
Betty’s Tour – Our Social Responsibility Initiative
For the last 2yrs Cape St Francis Resort has been taking guests on a wonderful tour of local community projects and businesses. These insightful excursions offer participants the opportunity to meet everyone involved and really get to know the what, who and why’s of each individual business and the people involved.
The tour known affectionately as ‘Betty’s Tours’ as Betty Anoster from Cape St Francis Resort is the tour leader, takes you to three very different places. Starting with some very dedicated folk at Cape St Francis’ based SANCCOB rehabilitation centre.
Get up close and personal with some feathered friends
Based next door to the light house in Cape St Francis the SANCCOB rehabilitation centre is a leading marine non-profit organization with a vision to conserve seabirds and other sea-life, especially threatened species such as the African penguin.
SANCCOB protects and treats seabirds affected by major and chronic oil pollution, and shares its specialist skills with the international community, such as providing services in Africa, the Indian Ocean region, and the Sub-Antarctic.
SANCCOB’s research focuses on improving knowledge that will improve the conservation of seabirds in the wild, and improve our ability to care for seabirds during their rehabilitation process.
Visitors on ‘Betty’s Tour’s’ are given a unique behind-the-scenes tour from one of the staff and allowed access to meet the penguins and other sea birds, gaining a wonderful perspective on all the hard work SANCCOB employees provide.
Our convenience store has everything you need
Within reception you will also find our convenience shop offering all manner of produce. So if you’ve forgotten your toothbrush, need braai wood, or have just got back from the beach and in need of a refreshing icecream, our shop has everything you need.
Everyday the talented chefs from our award winning Joe Fish Restaurant produce freshly home made pies and sandwiches but get there early before they sell out! Many of the ingredients are organically grown at our Bat and Boerboom farm on the Geelhout River.
There’s even a frozen section offering stunning free range chicken, local boerewors, and family size savoury pies.
Aside from the basics, the shop also stocks a beautiful range of clothing including, beach sarongs, dresses, childrenswear, men’s and women’s t-shirts and caps.
Interact with local kids at a children’s school
From SANCCOB guests are then taken into the heart of the local township known as ’Sea Vista’ to meet some very special kids at the Talhado Children’s Haven.
Talhado Children’s Haven was started to address the needs of disadvantaged children in the area of St Francis Bay. Pre-primary education and a safe place to play, under adult care, were needed. The school now provides both for over 400 children. All the fundraising for the Haven is done on a voluntary basis.
Through ’Betty’s Tour’ you will meet these wonderful children and the teachers who care for them. The children always have a smile and song and love meeting new people and in return visitors are left with some wonderful memories and some new friends!
Meet some talented locals and maybe buy a garment or two
Just down the road from Talhado’s is Nomvula’s which is the final destination on the tour.
Nomvula (nom Voo la) meaning “she who brings the rain” in Xhosa is considered a lucky name because any sign of rain in Southern Africa is gratefully received.
Starting as a knitting group by Frances Becker in 2008, Nomvulas has quickly turned into a fully fledged business with approx 15 full time knitters.
Although Nomvulas is still a small business it has developed a strong client base which keeps the pace of work consistent and provides a sustainable income for the staff.The concept of the company is to train the knitters in the art of manufacturing, marketing, and running a business with the goal to eventually own the business. Nomvula’s is not a charity and its goal is profit driven. What makes the company extra special is the knitters run it as their own business with the guidance and direction of Frances. They understand that what they put in, they get out both financially and emotionally.
As part of ’Betty’s Tours’ you will be given a personal tour by one of the knitters who will provide insight into what they do and how they do it. The products produced are simply stunning and you will be spoilt for choice with the wide range of clothing and accessories.
- Golf
-
Cape St Francis Resort Golf Course
Bunkers, lakes, long drives and beautifully tendered greens draw golfers to the area year after year!
Famously known for it’s surfing, The St Francis Bay area also offers 2 outstanding, and very different, golf courses.
Firstly there is ‘The St Francis Bay Golf Club’ situated within the heart of the picturesque village of St Francis. This full 18 hole course offers challenging holes for all levels, from short lake holes to long driver par 5s.
As you head over the road to the 11th – 15th holes, sea views and crashing wave back drops will emphasize the beauty of where you are playing.
The 19th hole or club house offers a wide variety of snacks, meals and drinks with stunning views across the course. Sit back and watch as the golfers finish their round on the 18th.
A golf course built around natural beauty
In the early 14th century, either in Scotland’s eastern Lothians or in the Netherlands, where the game was called Kalvin, golf began.
The links land was the marginal land lying between the beaches and the arable fields and only good for grazing sheep and rabbits and bleaching cloth.
Open to the elements, the game was played on the links grasses between the dunes and the bush.
’St Francis Links’ , the second course in St Francis Bay, may not have been grazing land for sheep and rabbits, but a natural course between the beach and arable land it is. Jack Nicklaus has had the pleasure of taking Mother Nature’s best piece of links land and signed his name to something unique. ’St Francis Links’ challenges all who play it and rewards those who respect it.
The layout combines every element of shot making with its undulating terrain, greens and surrounds as well as its variation in length and direction.
The bunkers look as though they have been ploughed out of the land. The bunkering truly defines the quality and character of ’St Francis Links’. Others courses have a links “look”. Here you will see what separates ’St Francis Links’ from the rest – a consistent look throughout. One will agree that, almost from the opening shot, ’St Francis Links’ carries a look and feel that breathes history from bygone times.
The shape greens’ shape comes from the natural movement of the land. The greens have simply been placed on top of the sand, changing shape as the wind changed its mind. Some are more undulating than others. All putting surfaces and green surrounds present a mental and physical test.
’St Francis Links’ is South Africa’s Pure Links!
Booking through Cape St Francis Resort as a guest will equate to a more favourable green fee.
A little bit of golfing history
The origins of the St Francis Bay Golf Club date back to 1975 when Leighton Hulett, the developer of the area then known as Sea Vista, opened a 9-hole private golf course. He employed Robert Grimsdell, who also designed courses such as Mowbray, Durban Country Club and Hans Merensky CC, to design the nine-hole private course which was opened in 1975.
In December 1976 the first Committee was elected and the club was named “The Cape St. Francis Golf Club”. The first Chairman was the late Buller Pagden. In the early 1980’s the village changed its name to St Francis Bay, and the club likewise became “St. Francis Bay Golf Club”. During this period the course was also developed from sandy to lush fairways and greens (exclusively Poa Annua) to achieve its acknowledged status as the best nine hole course in the Eastern Cape and South Africa’s best kept secret.
The course has undergone many changes since the original Grimsdell design was developed by Maxwell Hulett, the most significant which was the construction of an additional nine holes. As a result of the decision taken in 1997, the Club now has a full eighteen-hole course which was finally opened in December 1999.
The popularity of ’The St Francis Bay Golf Course’ and the “Calamari Classic” (a three-day tournament run in September each year) in particular has been evident when one looks at the list of players frequenting the Club. This list is made up of resident members as well as up-country members and visitors who travel from all over the country and abroad to come and play at ’The St Francis Bay GC’.
Booking through Cape St Francis Resort as a guest will ensure more favourable green fees.
And finally a lovely little 9 hole course…
A short drive to Humansdorp, just pass the N2 junction will lead you to one final course in the area – Zwartenbosch Golf Club. Although set out over 9 holes, this course offers different tee boxes for holes 10 -18. Not as popular as the 2 St Francis Bay based courses this hidden treasure is usually less busy and therefore can prove a more relaxing and peaceful affair.
The course is well maintained and offers a variety of challenging holes.
- Weddings
-
Cape St Francis Resort Weddings
LOOKING FOR A SEASIDE WEDDING VENUE?
Have your fairy-tale wedding at Cape ST Francis Resort
Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life. We also know it can be one of the most stressful if not handled correctly. Here at Cape St Francis Resort we understand that attention to detail is of paramount importance in order to exceed your every expectation.
Our highly skilled staff are on hand to ensure the smooth running of this very special day leaving you to relax and soak in this wonderful experience. From initial discussions to the big event we will assist you through the entire experience.
Due to the stunning location of Cape St Francis Resort, there are a number of options when it comes to wedding venues. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach wedding or a traditional chapel wedding we have the perfect place for you to tie the knot.
Cape St Francis Resort can accommodate up to 200 guests and, as your wedding guests, they will enjoy reduced accommodation rates. Accommodation is available to suit all budgets, from apartments, family cottages through to our 5-star beach villas.
WEDDING VENUE OPTIONS
Beach Break 5-star villa
Combining the beach with chic and style the Beach Break Villa is a grand choice for having your ceremony and/or your reception. The lawn runs onto the beach, so your ceremony can be held to the sound of the ocean in the background.- For ceremonies only, Beach Break can cater for 200 guests seated.
- For your ceremony and reception, Beach Break can cater for 30 guests maximum.
- Beach Break premises are subject to their own Liquor License.
Beach Break rates are available on request, as Beach Break rates are seasonal, we tailor the quote to your requirements.
Cape St Francis beach
Feel the sand between your toes with the sound and sight of lapping waves as you say your vows. The pristine golden beach of Cape St Francis is just a stone’s throw from Cape St Francis Resort and has proven to be a firm favourite with wedding parties. A driftwood arch, white washed chairs and beautiful coastal flowers sets the scene for the ultimate beach wedding.A variety of options are available regarding set up style. Contact us today for more information.Chapel and Theatre
For a more traditional wedding venue our Chapel and Theatre is the perfect choice. Offering seating for up to 180 guests this venue has a beautiful warm feeling with wooden floors and beams. Beautiful chandeliers finish the look. Liaising with our wedding consultant you can then decide on how you wish to decorate the venue to add your personal touch.Now as husband and wife it’s time to be greeted by your guests, enjoy a delicious tailor made lunch or dinner (depending on the time of your wedding ceremony), listen to the speeches then let your hair down and dance the night away…
ADDITIONAL RECEPTION VENUE OPTIONS
Beach Break
Regardless of where you had your ceremony, our 5-star Beach Break villa is available as a reception venue. Enjoy your reception with stunning ocean views and magical sunsets. Suitable for smaller intimate weddings Beach Break can accommodate up to 30 guests. POA
The Space
Our largest reception venue offers seating for up to 200 guests with ample room to dance the night away. The Space offers wooden floors, creating warmth and an elegant ambiance with its own entrance and veranda for welcome drinks.
Hire for all venues includes (excluding Beach Break):
- Hire till 12.30 am after that a levy per half hour or part thereof will apply.
- Tables, chairs, cutlery, crockery and glassware white linen table cloths and serviettes per guest.
- Joe Fish Bar is not included in venue hire but a private bar in either venue can be arranged.
- Barmen and Waitresses depending on the number of guests and entirely at our discretion.
Joe Fish Restaurant
Our award winning pool side restaurant is the perfect venue. Seating up to 70 guests the restaurant incorporates the outside swimming pool and decked area.
For larger weddings (up to 120 guests) why not add a Moroccan stretch tent over the pool? Our Moroccan stretch tent is erected to cover the pool and deck area. Our stage covering half the pool is popular with this venue.
The Chapel and Theatre
Aside from a traditional ceremony this venue also makes for a wonderful reception area. With its own wooden staircase, wooden floors, beams, chandeliers, stage and toilet facilities this venue is perfect for up to 100 seated guests.
Music
DJ’s or Musicians are allowed to play until 24H00 (midnight), thereafter the music must be turned down out of consideration for our neighbours.
It’s not just about ’The Big Day’ – Pre and post wedding get-togethers
As your guests will be staying on our Estate we suggest that you consider a pre- or post-wedding get together. We can host a pre-wedding dinner at our award winning pool side restaurant – Joe Fish or a fun “Build-a-Burger’ or ‘Braai” evening with wines at reduced rates. The following day we can host a post-wedding “Champagne Brunch” on our deck, the perfect farewell final get-together. With any style wedding it’s the details that matter, from table decorations, menus through to the choice of music for your reception.
- Gallery
-
Cape St Francis Resort Gallery
- Tripadvisor
-
Cape St Francis Resort Tripadvisor
We had a warm welcome on arrival and all the staff we came into contact with were very friendly and helpful for the duration of our stay. Keep up the great work. We will definitely refer you to others and will be back. Thank you for a great stay. – 617janiner
For quiet friendly break a way ,save and awesome waves from point or beach break ,lovely open beaches for long far walks with nature being left to be respected for its beauty.kind and good people looking out for each other thank u Cape st Francis for a lovely stay Team Hillbillies SA electrical skateboards and Segway. – hillbillies996
A group of friends spent a wonderful long weekend at Cape St Francis Resort. The staff were really attentive & made sure that we enjoyed our stay. It is ideally located just a stones throw from the white sands of the bay at Cape St Francis. The apartments are very spacious & well equiped. – 594arthurf
- Enquiry
-
Cape St Francis Resort Enquire Now