The Sands @ St Francis, St Francis Bay — Top Rated (8+) from $146| BestHotel.net

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The Sands @ St Francis St Francis Bay Exterior photo The photo shows a beautiful outdoor dining area, likely belonging to a restaurant or resort, with stunning ocean views. The scene is bathed in soft, overcast daylight.

In the foreground, there are several tables set for dining on a light-colored pa

The Sands @ St Francis St Francis Bay Amenities photo The photo captures a unique and luxurious waterfront property, likely a vacation home or resort, nestled against a stunning ocean backdrop. The house boasts a distinctive architectural style with multiple thatched roofs, creating a whimsical and trop

The Sands @ St Francis St Francis Bay Fast Food photo This photo captures a cozy and inviting scene centered around a selection of fine wines and delectable treats.

Five bottles of wine are prominently displayed on a dark, glossy surface. The bottles are arranged in a row, with the two on the left sta

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Key details

About the Hotel

8 Frank Road, St Francis Bay, South Africa, 6312

Close to St Francis Bay Beach

Perfect

9.5

9.8

/10

4.7

5-star beachfront luxury in St Francis Bay

Rooms

The Sands @ St Francis offers five spacious en-suite bedrooms, each with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean and direct access to private decks. The honeymoon suite includes a timber deck with an outdoor shower and a Jacuzzi, from where guests can enjoy spectacular sunsets. Luxurious king-sized beds are dressed in the finest Percale linen, providing an inviting sleep experience.

Dining

The Octagon Restaurant provides a breathtaking 270-degree panoramic view of St Francis Bay and serves a well-stocked continental breakfast and an a la carte dinner menu. Special emphasis is given to the restaurant's seafood menu, featuring some of the freshest offerings in the country. Guests can also select from a curated list of fine South African wines from the Director's Cellar to complement their meals.

Location

The hotel is located in St Francis Bay, an area renowned for its pristine coastline and water-based activities. Guests can enjoy direct access to superb surfing and swimming spots just a few steps from the property. Additionally, St Francis Bay is positioned near several malaria-free game reserves in the Eastern Cape, providing opportunities for wildlife exploration.

Wellness

The Sands offers wellness options, including two swimming pools-one with ocean views and the other offering seclusion for relaxation. A steam room is available, providing an oasis for guests seeking rejuvenation. For a unique experience, in-suite spa treatments can be arranged for added pampering.

Activities

Guests can enjoy light lunches and various water sports activities in close proximity to the hotel, adding to the overall experience of beachside living. Scenic nature trails for hiking also begin just outside the garden, allowing guests to explore the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, Pumba offers a day safari package for a chance to view South African wildlife.

Highlights

Location: St Francis Bay, an area renowned for its pristine coastline

Rooms: five spacious en-suite bedrooms

Dining: Octagon Restaurant with panoramic views

Wellness: two swimming pools, steam room

Activities: Scenic nature trails for hiking

Wildlife: Day safari package at Pumba

Must-do experiences

Surf the waves at Bruce's Beauties for a thrilling day out.
Savor fresh oysters at St Francis Bay Oysters, a local delight.
Visit the St Francis Bay Lighthouse for stunning ocean views.
Explore the unique ecosystem at the nearby Cape St Francis Nature Reserve.
Join a guided kayak tour to spot dolphins and marine life up close.

View all

Select your room type

The Sands @ St Francis offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Luxury King or Twin Sea View Ground Floor

2 persons

455 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Luxury Double Room Sea View Ground Floor

2 persons

455 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The Sands @ St Francis offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Golf course
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Sun loungers
Garden area
Steam room
Pool with view

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Parquet floor

Dining Onsite

At The Sands @ St Francis, the culinary scene is a delightful tapestry of seafood and international flavors, set against a backdrop of modern elegance. Guests can indulge in a range of carefully crafted dishes, whether enjoying light lunches on the terrace or gourmet dinners while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

Octagon Restaurant

Seafood, Local, International

Ambiance

Modern setting with options to dine al fresco on the terrace or indoors, enhancing the dining experience with comfortable surroundings.

Key Offerings

The a la carte menu features an eclectic range of dishes, highlighting fresh seafood and local ingredients. Guests may savor their meals while enjoying scenic views, with light lunches and gourmet dinners available.

Reservation

Reservations are recommended to secure a preferred dining time.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Location

8 Frank Road, St Francis Bay, South Africa, 6312

Map view

8 Frank Road, St Francis Bay, South Africa, 6312

City landmarks

Store

St Francis Links

1.1 mi

Landmark

St Francis Bay Beach

3800 ft

Landmark

Baviaans Camino

5100 ft

Mall

St Francis Bay Market

4700 ft

Landmark

Port St. Francis

1.7 mi

Landmark

Chokka Trail

2.2 mi

Landmark

Seal Point Private Nature Reserve

3.0 mi

Landmark

Sanccob Eastern Cape

2.8 mi

Lighthouse

Cape Saint Francis Lighthouse

3.1 mi

Nearby

2 Harbour Rd

Two Harbours Walk Trail

1700 ft

Restaurants

Christy's Catch

2100 ft

165 St Francis Dr

St Francis Brewing Co

2200 ft

167 St Francis Drive

Rambling Rose garden cafe

2500 ft

165 St Francis Drive

Pommes Frites Pizzeria & Bistro

3200 ft

170 St Francis Drive Village Shopping Center

Explore St Francis Bay

Activities, Dining & Entertainment

St Francis Bay Beach

14 minutes' walk

Beautiful beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming, with soft sands and scenic views, perfect for family outings.

Baviaans Camino

19 minutes walking

A scenic trail great for hiking enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes and a chance to connect with nature.

St Francis Bay Market

17 minutes' walk

Local market featuring fresh produce and crafts every Saturday, perfect for a taste of local culture.

Port St. Francis

8 minutes' drive

Picturesque harbor with dining options and boat tours available, known for its stunning sunsets over the water.

Two Harbours Walk Trail

6 minutes' walk

Leisurely walking trail along the coastline, ideal for relaxation and enjoying ocean views.

Kayaking at Port St. Francis

8 minutes' drive

Exciting kayaking tours offered at the harbor; suitable for all skill levels and a great way to experience marine life.

Christy's Catch

8 minutes' walk

Casual seafood restaurant with fresh catches daily; their calamari and fish & chips are widely recommended.

St Francis Brewing Co

8 minutes' walk

Local brewery offering craft beers and delicious pub fare in a relaxed setting with brew tours available.

Rambling Rose Garden Cafe

9 minutes' walk

Charming cafe serving organic dishes and homemade pastries in a beautiful garden setting.

Local Pub at Port St. Francis

8 minutes' drive

Vibrant pub with live music on weekends and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends.

Breathtaking Sunset Cruise

8 minutes' drive

Evening cruises available to witness the stunning sunsets over the ocean, suitable for couples and families alike.

Getting around

City Centre

St Francis Bay11 min · 3000 ft

Airports

Port Elizabeth International (PLZ)165 min · 68.2 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-14:30

Check-out

from 10:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Sands @ St Francis serves a full breakfast for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2011

Former name

The Sands

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Sands @ St Francis from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 169 verified reviews

9.5/10

Perfect

95%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.7/10

Comfort

9.8/10

Facilities

9.6/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.1/10

Location

9.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

9.0/10

Staff

9.7/10

Value for money

9.5/10

Lisa from United States

Couple

Luxury King or Twin Sea View Ground Floor

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 25, 2025

7/10

decent stay, some issues

great viewfriendly staffhomey feelinglack of privacytoilet privacyopen bathroom

i loved how the room opened to the deck and swimming pool. the views were great from there. the staff were friendly and location was quite good. i also appreciated the homey feeling.

the lack of privacy with the toilet was an issue for me. there was no privacy from my partner at all. the toilet is in the bathroom, and the bathroom is open to the bedroom with just a blind between.

0 Helpful

Jason from Australia

Couple

luxury king or twin sea view ground floor

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 21, 2025

9/10

ocean viewfriendly staff

i stayed in the luxury king or twin sea view ground floor. the ocean view was amazing from the room! i found the walkway to the beach very convenient. the restaurant had excellent food. our dinner was the best i had on my trip. the staff were friendly and helpful!

the wi-fi signal wasn't very strong at times!

0 Helpful

Samantha from United States

Couple

Luxury Double Room Sea View Ground Floor

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

9/10

clean beachamazing dinnerfriendly people

the staff washed my car without request. the rooms offer amazing views. chef abigail prepared amazing dinner and breakfast.

the minibar door was off its hinge upon arrival.

0 Helpful

FAQs

About The Sands @ St Francis

What time is check-in and check-out at The Sands @ St Francis?

Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 11:00.

How far is The Sands @ St Francis from Port Elizabeth International Airport?

The hotel is located 100 km from Port Elizabeth International Airport.

Is there on-site parking available at The Sands @ St Francis?

Free public parking is available on-site without reservation.

What dining options are available at The Sands @ St Francis?

The hotel features the Octagon Restaurant, which serves light lunches and gourmet dinners with panoramic views.

Are there any recreational activities at The Sands @ St Francis?

Guests can enjoy beach access, fishing, and a golf course on-site.

Does The Sands @ St Francis have a swimming pool?

The hotel features an infinity swimming pool that is open all year.

What amenities do the rooms at The Sands @ St Francis include?

Rooms are equipped with a mini bar, coffee/tea making facilities, air conditioning, and a marble bathroom with a spa bath.

What is the closest beach to The Sands @ St Francis?

St Francis Bay Beach is just 650 m from the hotel.

Is breakfast included at The Sands @ St Francis?

Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 105 ZAR.

What languages are spoken by the staff at The Sands @ St Francis?

The staff is proficient in English.

Can I enjoy views from my room at The Sands @ St Francis?

All rooms feature expansive windows providing uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.

Does The Sands @ St Francis offer any spa services?

A steam room is available upon request for guests.

How far is The Sands @ St Francis from the center of St. Francis Bay?

The hotel is located 1 km from the center of St. Francis Bay.

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