This Port Elizabeth suburb boasts stunning views, a small town vibe and a convenient location close to the city centre.
About the area
Bluewater Bay is a suburb with a difference – a stone’s throw away from industrial areas, yet largely untouched and hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Bluewater Bay is situated between Port Elizabeth and the harbour development at Coega. It is self-contained with shops, salons and medical facilities and could be described as a small town within a city. It is renowned for its beautiful views and with its close proximity to Amsterdamhoek, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you have stepped into an upmarket fishing village and not a suburb of Port Elizabeth.
Many homes are large and rustic and have a view of either the river or the ocean. Bluewater Bay boasts white sandy beaches and a relaxed water-centred lifestyle. It has become increasingly popular among water sports enthusiasts who head there to swim, surf, fish and parasail.
The area is steeped in history. According to popular nautical website wrecksite.eu, the Dutch ship Amsterdam, on a voyage from Batavia to Holland, sprang a leak and was beached off Bluewater Bay in 1817. The wreck of the Amsterdam was discovered 2km north-east of the Swartkops River mouth in 1985. Amsterdamhoek was named after the ship and just three years ago an octant (maritime navigation instrument) thought to have come from the wreck of the Amsterdam, was discovered on the beach at Bluewater Bay.
Bluewater Bay is divided by the N2 into Bluewater Beach on the one side, and Bluewater Bay on the other. It is said to be one of the fastest growing residential areas due to its proximity to Coega. Bluewater Bay also boasts regular dolphin sightings, hiking trails and whale-watching during whale season.
Bluewater Bay has grown tremendously over the years, but the beaches are still untouched and I love that it is away from the hustle and bustle of the city
Shaun Pauls, resident
Top schools:
- Bay Christian School situated in Hillcrest Drive
- Bluewater Bay Primary School situated in Claude Crescent
Things to do:
- Bluewater Bay Beach: Great for swimming and surfing. In peak season the beach is patrolled by lifeguards, and there’s a kids’ playground with ablution facilities available.
- Aloe Trail: A popular hiking trail that starts at the top of Tippers Creek Road. The circular route is marked with red arrows and overlooks Amsterdamhoek and the Zwartkops estuary.
Hospitals nearby:
- Livingstone Hospital
- Netcare Greenacres Hospital
- Life St George’s Hospital
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
