By Staff Writer
Leaving Pretoria before sunrise always feels like the beginning of a proper South African road trip. The city slowly fades as the N1 south opens into wide Highveld farmland. Long stretches of road, coffee stops and changing landscapes make this journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Around nine to ten hours later, Kenton on Sea appears quietly between two rivers and some of the Eastern Cape’s most pristine coastline. Tucked between the Bushmans River and Kariega River, this small coastal town offers a relaxed seaside escape that feels far removed from city life.
The Road Trip Car
For the journey from Pretoria to Kenton-on-Sea, the JAECOO J7 makes an excellent road trip companion. With a starting price in South Africa from approximately R549,900, this midsize SUV balances comfort, practicality and premium touches.
The boot offers generous space for weekend luggage, beach bags and cooler boxes. On long highway stretches, the Jaecoo J7 settles into a relaxed cruise, with supportive seating and a quiet cabin.Rear passengers benefit from good legroom, while the elevated ride height is useful for coastal roads and gravel access routes. One standout feature is its intelligent all-road capability, which suits the lifestyle of exploring rivers, beaches and nearby reserves around Kenton on Sea.
Why This Small Town Is Worth the Weekend Drive
Kenton-on-Sea sits in the Eastern Cape, approximately 940 kilometres from Pretoria. While it is a longer drive, the reward is a quiet coastal town known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.Visitors come for wide beaches, river adventures and the laid-back lifestyle. Unlike busier coastal towns, Kenton-on-Sea offers space, calm and beautiful scenery.
The Route
The most practical route from Pretoria to Kenton-on-Sea follows:
Pretoria → N1 South → Bloemfontein → N6 → R63 → N10 → R72 → Kenton on Sea
Distance: Approximately 940 km
Estimated Driving Time: 9.5 to 10.5 hours (excluding stops)
The drive transitions from Highveld farmland to Karoo landscapes and eventually Eastern Cape coastal bush.
Fuel Planning
Estimated fuel consumption (Jaecoo J7): 7.5–8.5L/100km
Recommended stops: 2–3 stops
Suggested fuel stops:
Stop 1: Kroonstad (2.5 hours from Pretoria)
Ideal for breakfast and coffee.
Stop 2: Bloemfontein (Halfway point)
Good fuel, food and rest stop.
Optional Stop 3: Cradock or Cookhouse
Stretch break before reaching the coast.
Three Reasons People Visit
- Beaches
Kenton-on-Sea boasts wide, uncrowded beaches perfect for long walks.
- River Activities
The Bushmans and Kariega rivers offer kayaking, boating and paddle boarding.
- Relaxed Coastal Lifestyle
Visitors come to slow down and disconnect from city life.
Where to Stay
High-End Stay
Kariega Game Reserve
Luxury safari accommodation near Kenton-on-Sea
Price range: From R12000 per night (depending on which lodge you choose)
Family-Friendly Stay
Sibuya Game Reserve
Relaxed lodge and self-catering accommodation
Price range: From R7,800 per night
Where to Eat
Signature Dining Experience
The House Kitchen
Modern coastal dining
Price range: R150–R320
Casual Local Favourite
The Sandbar Floating Restaurant
Riverside dining experience on the Bushmans River
Price range: R120–R250
Weekend Activity
Boat cruises on the Bushmans River remain one of Kenton-on-Sea’s most popular experiences. Prices typically start from around R350 per person depending on duration.
The Instagram Moment
Shelley Bay offers sweeping coastal views, golden sand and dramatic ocean backdrops. Sunrise and sunset provide the best photography opportunities.
Business Pulse
Tourism drives Kenton-on-Sea’s local economy. Holiday homes, game reserves, guesthouses and restaurants support the town year-round, with peak seasons during summer and long weekends.
The Drive There
Road conditions are generally good. The N1 highway is smooth and well maintained, while the Eastern Cape sections offer scenic rural landscapes. The JAECOO J7 handles both highway cruising and smaller coastal roads comfortably.
Weekend Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Depart Pretoria early
Afternoon: Lunch stop in Bloemfontein or Graaff-Reinet
Evening: Arrive in Kenton-on-Sea and enjoy sunset at Shelley Bay
Day 2
Morning: Walk along Bushmans Beach
Afternoon: Boat cruise on Bushmans River before heading back
Tourist Office
Kenton-on-Sea Tourism
