Coffee Shack Backpackers

Coffee Shack Backpackers is a backpackers lodge on Bomvu Beach in Coffee Bay, about 400 m from the main surf beach. It is rated 8.5 out of 10 on Booking.com from 147 reviews, with staff scored 9.3 and location 9.0. It sleeps 50 in 6- and 8-bed dorms, private thatched rooms and rondavels, twin, family and en-suite rooms, and a campsite. Groups who want their own space can take the King's House, a two-bedroom self-catering cottage.

The surf school runs lessons and hires out boards, and guides lead hikes along the coast to Hole in the Wall and outings to the Mapuzi cliffs and caves. Guided walks explore local Xhosa culture, and you can also book a village dinner or an overnight stay in a village. Babalaza Cafe and Bar is on site, a free communal dinner is served every Sunday night, and two guest kitchens with braais suit self-caterers. Wi-Fi is free in the common areas, and reception is open from 07:00 to 22:00.

Coffee Bay is about 80 km off the N2 on the R411, a tarred road suitable for all cars. Allow just over an hour, and arrive before dark because of stray animals and unmarked speed bumps. Coffee Shack also runs a daily shuttle from Mthatha airport and the Shell Ultra City bus stop, which must be booked in advance. On Hostelworld one guest wrote: "Lovely backpackers really focused on giving back to the community! Huge fan!" Another remembered their guide: "We loved it nice rondavel great staff great tour guide thnx Lucky".