Port Alfred, on the Eastern Cape Coast of South Africa, is home to wild waves and secluded beaches. It is also the home of 43 Air School where G got his private pilot’s license.

flying with your dog
Port Alfred, 43 Air School

It was, in the olden days, a rather weathered fishing town with a pier that juts out into the sea and gets blasted by wave upon treacherous wave.

Port Alfred
Catching waves in Port Alfred.

We have watched boats waiting for ages for their chance to navigate the harbor and seen more than one flip on occasion! It can be quite a wild ride navigating into the harbor.

Port Alfred
Waves crashing onto the pier at Port Alfred.

With that being said, over the years it has developed into a real jewel on the Sunshine Coast with the Royal Alfred Marina, thriving restaurants and bars, and the Royal Port Alfred Golf Club (allowed to put “Royal” in front of its name as Royalty has played there – Princess Alice and Prince Arthur of Connaught – the “Royal” status bestowed subsequently by King George in 1924).

Port Alfred
Relaxing at a restaurant on the Marina, Port Alfred.

Accommodating is available to fit all tastes and budgets.  The Fish River Sun is elegant but not necessary dog-friendly

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Port Alfred
Early morning on the beach.

On our last trip there we stayed in the most dog-friendly spot of all – a small hut right on the beach. They were old and probably something a bit more upmarket has taken their place by now. But perfect for our needs.

Port Alfred
Beachside braai, South African style.

Thoughts and Things

It’s over twenty years later that I write this. Spike has been gone a long time. I still have the jacket. I bet there is still some Spikey hair jammed in a pocket seam somewhere. That dog’s hair got everywhere.