There's a sense of antiquity and history about Port Elizabeth (PE). This is 1820 British Settler country and numerous monuments pay tribute to its English heritage. Restored Settler houses are now beautiful homes, and the Sir Rufane Donkin lighthouse still stands proud on a hilltop overlooking the city - named after his wife Lady Elizabeth.

Port Elizabeth's attractions are both numerous and diverse, with an emphasis on outdoor and nature activities. The city's trump card is its beautiful beaches and warm ocean. With calm waters and fair breezes, the coast is perfect for swimming and watersports.

At Bayworld on the beachfront, visitors can view performing dolphins and seals. A snake park and a museum, depicting cultural and natural history, is also in the Bayworld complex. No 7 Castle Hill, one of the oldest surviving Settler cottages in the area, is nearby, as is the perfectly intact stronghold - Fort Frederick.

Moving offshore, Port Elizabeth offers excellent fishing and scuba-diving possibilities and game-fishing from deep-sea boats.

PE shopping hotspots include Greenacres and The Bridge as well as Walmer Park. The liveliest nightlife can be found at The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World, right on the beachfront. This extensive complex includes entertainment, shopping, dining and gaming.

If you need to get in touch with your wild side, Addo Elephant National Park is not too far away from the city lights. This park is considered to be the most biologically-diverse park in the world. Addo is home to the Big Seven, which includes the terrestrial Big Five of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo as well as whales and great white sharks.

Don't miss:

Bayworld and the dolphin display.

Swimming at Kings Beach or Hobie Beach.

The view from Shark Pier.

Playing a few of the 700 slot machines at the Boardwalk Casino.

Getting up close to elephants at Addo Elephant National Park.

Exploring the fascinating history and heritage of this unique city.