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Kenton – The Barefoot Capital of the Sunshine Coast
Kenton – The Barefoot Capital of the Sunshine Coast

Our ultimate guide for your perfect stay at the Barefoot Capital

Getting to Kenton-on-Sea and making the most of your stay is easy with a little planning.

  • Book your accommodation
    Whether it’s a riverfront lodge or a cosy self-catering cottage, Kenton and its surrounds offer options for every budget.
  • Consider how you want to get here
    Most visitors drive into Kenton, enjoying the scenic route along the R72. If you’re flying in, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Airport is about 130 km away and offers car rentals; or you can also come via East London (160 km). 
  • Think about how you want to get around while staying here
    Once here, getting around is simple: the village is walkable, and everything is a short drive away. Parking is free and readily available at beaches and shops.
  • Get your bags packed and don’t forget your trip essentials. Be sure to bring your sunscreen, a hat, comfy sandals, and a reusable water bottle – our sun shines bright and we love our eco-friendly practices. If you plan on fishing or boating, make sure to arrange the necessary permits ahead of time.
  • One more thing! We recommend downloading our curated map of the area to help with your planning and navigation.

Plan Your Trip – Top FAQ’s

How do I get to Kenton-on-Sea?

Kenton is accessible via the R72 coastal route by car from major cities such as Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), approximately 130 km (90-minute drive), and East London, approximately 160 km. The nearest international airport is in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

From Johannesburg, visitors typically fly into Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) or East London and then drive to Kenton. From Cape Town, there is a lovely self-drive option via the garden route. You could even include a 2-3 night safari experience at one of the multitude of Big 5 private game reserves or Addo Elephant National Park and end off in Kenton, to pause and relax before heading home.

There is no direct public transport to Kenton, making car rental or shuttle services recommended for convenience.

E-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are not currently available in Kenton. For transportation within Kenton, local taxi services or private shuttle companies are the primary options. It’s recommended to arrange transportation in advance to ensure availability. The village is walkable if you need to reach local shops.

Kenton is an excellent year-round destination. Whether you prefer lively festivities or tranquil retreats, Kenton offers something special each season.

  • Summer (November to March): Peak season. Warm and vibrant, ideal for a festive atmosphere, beach activities, and ocean swimming.
  • Late spring and early autumn: Pleasant weather and fewer crowds, perfect for outdoor adventures.
  • Winter (June to August): Mild, sunny days averaging around 20°C (68°F), great for peaceful beach walks, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
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Bring casual, comfortable clothing – this is a relaxed beach town! Remember your sunscreen and hat, as well as plenty of beach and swimwear (and sandals or flip flops). 

You’ll need a pair of walking shoes for hikes, exploring and bush walks, and if you have binoculars (for wildlife and birdwatching), pack them! 

Don’t worry if you forget something though – the village shops carry beach gear, basic pharmacy items, and groceries. And save some space in your luggage: you might want to take home local souvenirs or a bottle of that great wine you tried here.

Yes, Kenton’s main street hosts grocery stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, specialised retailers, convenience stores, and essential amenities catering to daily needs.

Wi-Fi (Fiber) is available at most accommodations, cafes, and eateries. We are an ideal location for digital nomads and remote work.

Yes, Kenton is a peaceful and safe destination with low crime rates. It’s a small coastal town known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and friendly community. As with any destination, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and secure valuables when not in use.

Local emergency services, including medical facilities, police, and rescue services, are available in Kenton and surrounding towns.

[View download of emergency services pdf.]

A regular car is just fine for reaching Kenton and driving around locally. The main roads are tarred. Some attractions like the Poor Man’s Game Drive route require a 4×4 and it is worthwhile checking in with the local tourism office if the roads are accessible.

If you plan to fish, get a recreational fishing permit online.

For boating on the rivers, you’ll need a skipper’s license for 15 horsepower (hp) and over, and a boat launching permit. It’s wise to reserve your accommodation in advance, especially in peak season, and to book popular activities (like game drives or restaurant Christmas lunches) ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

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