Welcome to Kenton-on-Sea & Bushmans River Mouth

The Barefoot Arts Meander (our very first one!) unfolds over the Heritage Day long weekend across both Kenton-on-Sea and Bushmans River Mouth, two neighbouring villages framed by the Kariega and Bushmans Rivers, unspoiled beaches, and the Eastern Cape's easy, barefoot pace of life. We’re so excited to share 4 days with you - the best that our local artists have on offer, brilliant authors and theatre and a local craft market. Whether you're joining us for a day, or better still, whole long weekend, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your stay.

How to Get Here

Driving: Kenton-on-Sea sits almost exactly midway between Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and East London along the scenic R72 coastal route — about 130 km (roughly 90 minutes) from Gqeberha, and 160 km from East London. Both are easy, well-signposted drives, and the R72 is one of the prettiest coastal roads in the country.

Flying: The nearest airport is Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), with regular flights from major centres and car rental available on arrival. East London is a good alternative if you're coming from further up the coast.

Once you're here: Kenton is a walkable village — most restaurants, shops, and venues are a short stroll or drive apart, with free parking at beaches and around town. Note that Uber/Bolt aren't available locally, so if you're not driving, arrange a local taxi or shuttle in advance.

Full trip-planning details, FAQs and a downloadable area map: kenton.co.za/plan-your-trip

Where to Stay

From riverfront lodges to self-catering cottages and boutique B&Bs, there's a base for every budget:

• Boutique hotels & B&Bs — intimate, welcoming stays across Kenton and Bushmans
• Self-catering & Airbnb — guesthouses and apartments that feel like home
• Safari lodges — Kariega, Sibuya and other Big 5 reserves a short drive away, plus Addo Elephant Park slightly further afield

Browse accommodation and book your stay: kenton.co.za/portfolio/places-to-stay

Tip: September is outside peak season, but with the festival in town, we'd recommend booking early.

Where to Eat

Kenton and Bushmans punch well above their weight for a small coastal village — fresh seafood, farm-to-table plates, and easy sundowner spots:

• Coffee & breakfast: Dilly Deli, MM Coffee, Voila, Tommy's Coffee, The Daily (Bushmans)
• Restaurants: Stanley's Restaurant (panoramic river views), the wonderful Goat Shed (their fish and chips is legendary!) The House Kitchen & Cellar (farm-to-table, garden setting — also a BAM venue), The Sandbar Floating Restaurant, The Bell (wine bar and eatery — also a BAM venue), Pizzarella's, Post House Grill,( right next to the Bushmans Town Hall) Kenton Asian, and Volo's multiple dining spaces.
• Takeaways: Cornerstone for fish and chips on the beach; Nanaga Farm Stall for legendary pies and ginger beer on the drive in to our towns.
• Bars & sundowners: Jerry's on the Dune (also a BAM venue), Bushmans Bar & Grill, The Loft Pub & Grub, and Volo for cocktails and evening entertainment.

Full listings: kenton.co.za/portfolio/food-and-drink

Beyond the Meander: The Best of the Sunshine Coast

We're bringing you books, theatre and storytelling this September — but Kenton and Bushmans reward a longer stay. While you're here (or if you decide to extend your trip):

• Beaches & rivers — unspoiled, blue-flag and pilot-status beaches, tidal rock pools, and cruises up the Kariega or Bushmans River
• Wildlife & nature — the free self-drive "Poor Man's Game Drive" past Big 5 reserve borders, or a proper safari at Kariega or Sibuya Game Reserve
• Adventure & outdoors — kayaking, paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing, horse rides along the beach, and sandboarding down the dunes
• History & heritage — the story of Dias Cross and the region's rich maritime past
• Art scene — Kenton's growing community of local galleries and makers, the same creative spirit that inspired this festival.

Explore the full Sunshine Coast experience: kenton.co.za/experiences

For questions on accommodation or the area, contact the Kenton Tourism Office via WhatsApp on 072 805 0651 or email [email protected].