Crawford’s Beach Lodge

Crawford's Beach Lodge is a family-run lodge at 42 Steenbras Drive in Chintsa East, on the Cintsa coast about 42 km from KuGompo (East London). The family has run it since 1976, and it is now in its third generation. It is rated 4.5 out of 5 on LekkeSlaap from 25 reviews, with location and safety each scored 4.8 and service 4.7. Its rooms and family suites are set in tropical gardens within walking distance of the beach, and many have private decks, some in the front row facing the sea and others with partial sea views from further back.

It works for families as well as couples. Children of all ages are welcome, and the family suites sleep four to six, while the single Honeymoon Room, with its own deck facing the ocean, takes no children under 13. Rates include breakfast, and the lodge's own restaurant serves other meals, so there is no need to drive out for dinner. Chintsa East village has a few more places to eat within walking distance. There is a swimming pool, the Bungalow Beach Spa, a laundry service, Wi-Fi and free secure parking, and conference facilities make it an option for corporate retreats.

Guests on LekkeSlaap mostly talk about the staff and the setting. One wrote: "Staff are very friendly and the food and service were excellent." Another, writing in Afrikaans, praised the "Friendly staff who go out of their way to help you. Beautiful surroundings." A third said: "We loved our relaxing stay at Crawford's as it is close to a pristine beach."