Savour the views of Morgan Bay Cliffs.
Image: Clinton Moodley
Gxarha, formerly known as Morgan Bay, on the Wild Coast, is a reminder of just how lucky we are to live in South Africa.
With so many incredible coastal towns to choose from, it’s easy to overlook places that quietly offer exactly what you need: space, sea air and a proper break from routine.
Set along the Eastern Cape’s rugged shoreline, Gxarha delivers that classic Wild Coast scenery.
There’s a long stretch of beach, dramatic cliffs and rolling green hills that meet the ocean in a way that feels untouched.
It’s peaceful without feeling cut off, and relaxed without feeling sleepy.
We often talk about travelling more locally, and this is exactly the kind of destination that makes a strong case for it.
You don’t need an international flight to feel like you’ve escaped. Sometimes, a few hours on the road is enough to completely shift your perspective.
Part of the appeal is the setting. The Wild Coast is raw, beautiful and of course a little bit wild, and Gxarha captures that atmosphere perfectly.
The beach sits right at the heart of the village, making it easy to start and end your day by the water.
There’s no rush here. No crowded promenades or packed tourist attractions.
Instead, you’ll find guesthouses overlooking the ocean, a handful of local spots to eat and that small-town hospitality South Africans know so well.
It’s the kind of place where you greet the same faces more than once over a weekend.
Gxarha also works for different types of travellers.
Couples looking for a quiet break, families wanting space for the kids to run around, or friends planning a laid-back getaway will all find it suits them.
The pace is slower, and that’s the point.
The beach is the obvious starting point. Long walks along the sand are part of the experience, especially in the early morning when everything feels calm.
Depending on conditions, you can swim, bodyboard, or simply sit and watch the waves roll in. Surfers are often drawn to this stretch of coastline, too.
One of the highlights is the walk along the cliffs towards Double Mouth. The views are impressive and give you a real sense of the Wild Coast’s dramatic landscape.
It’s not overly challenging, but it feels rewarding, especially when you stop to take it all in.
If you’re in the mood for something gentler, the lagoon offers calmer water for paddling or kayaking. It’s also a great option for families.
Fishing is popular in the area, whether from the rocks or out on a boat with someone who knows the coastline well.
For travellers who prefer to stay active, there are hiking trails and mountain biking routes in the surrounding countryside.
Horse riding along the beach is another experience that’s well worth considering.
There’s something special about seeing the coastline from that perspective.
And then, of course, you can choose to do very little at all. Read a book, explore rock pools, enjoy a slow breakfast with an ocean view or simply sit outside and listen to the waves.