Smaller coastal towns continue to attract a wide range of home buyers, drawn by their lifestyle, affordability, and accessibility.
These towns offer a quality environment for both retirees and younger families, especially those working from home or seeking to relocate for a better work-life balance.
According to Pam Golding Properties, key factors like efficient local municipalities, proximity to medical facilities, and easy access to major cities or airports also contribute to their appeal.
The realtor highlights the following eight towns that hold appeal for home buyers whether local or international.
In the Western Cape, towns like St Helena Bay and Langebaan have seen significant property market growth. St Helena Bay, with its 18 small bays and scenic beaches, has experienced rising property values, with freehold stands averaging around R599,000, up from R199,000 three years ago.
Langebaan, popular for water sports and nature experiences, has attracted many buyers from Gauteng, Cape Town, and overseas, with prices for beachfront homes ranging from R2.8 million to R17 million.
Meanwhile, Gansbaai, known for its fishing spots and peaceful lifestyle, is also seeing an increase in demand, with homes priced around R2 million to R2.5 million.
The town is expanding with new developments, including a gated village and improved infrastructure, making it an attractive option for semigrants and remote workers.
St Francis Bay, located on the picturesque Eastern Cape coastline, has become a popular destination for young families seeking a permanent residence.
The town’s appeal is growing, bolstered by the local private junior school and Kouga municipality’s ranking as the top in the Eastern Cape.
Property demand remains strong, with entry-level homes selling for around R3 million, while waterfront properties needing renovation start at R6 million. The market is also thriving in the R8 million to R12 million range.
St Francis Links plots have seen significant price increases, with entry-level plots rising from R350,000 to R700,000 over the past five years, and prime plots now fetching up to R6 million.
In Kenton on Sea, a coastal town between the Bushmans and Kariega Rivers, the property market is active across various sectors, with prices ranging from R2 million for cottages to R6 million for family homes and R16 million for luxury waterfront properties.
Demand for vacant plots is also high, with erven between 600 and 1,000sqm priced from R300,000 to R2 million.
Buyers are a mix of South Africans, including semigrators, and some overseas investors, many of whom are purchasing for vacation or retirement purposes.
Port Alfred, located on the Sunshine Coast, has seen a rise in interest from semigrators, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic, as people reassess their living situations and accelerate retirement plans.
Isobel Meyer, area principal at Pam Golding Properties, notes a significant influx of buyers between 18 and 49 years old, including singles, young families, and those seeking investment or relocation opportunities.
The highest demand is for homes priced between R1.5 million and R3 million, with many inquiries coming from Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, KwaZulu-Natal, and international buyers from countries like Germany, France, the UK, and the UAE.
While many buyers seek homes for leisure, there has also been an uptick in relocation inquiries, particularly from South African expats.
Properties in Port Alfred vary in price depending on location and type. Three- to four-bedroom homes, especially those in security estates, are popular, with turnkey homes ranging from R1.85 million to R3.5 million.
Beachfront and waterfront properties, particularly in the Royal Alfred Marina, are in high demand, with prices for these homes starting at R3.995 million.
Vacant land is also seeing steady sales, with smaller plots available from R200,000 to R250,000 and larger, well-located plots near the beach or river starting at R395,000. However, there are few vacant stands left in the Royal Alfred Marina, with a 1,800sqm plot priced at R4.5 million.
Port Shepstone, located on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast near the scenic Oribi Gorge, blends small-town charm with modern conveniences.
It’s increasingly popular, particularly among younger buyers, including professionals like doctors and teachers, drawn by its beaches, outdoor activities, and subtropical climate.
The area offers a range of affordable properties, with two-bedroom apartments typically priced between R700,000 and R1 million.
Larger homes, such as three-bedroom houses, start at around R1.2 million, while more spacious properties can go up to R3.5 million, with several homes available in secure estates offering amenities like swimming pools and 24-hour security.
Approximately 70% of property buyers in Port Shepstone seek permanent residences, with the remaining buyers investing in either long-term rentals or holiday properties. The town appeals to a variety of buyers, from young professionals to retirees, thanks to its excellent healthcare, schools, and recreational options.
Nearby Southbroom offers additional attractions, including a 4km beach, golf course, and various local amenities. Beachfront properties in Southbroom range from R2.5 million to R6 million, with freehold homes near the beach reaching up to R15 million.
With a strong sense of community and good infrastructure, both towns provide a secure and peaceful lifestyle, making them attractive destinations for both full-time residents and vacationers.
