Location
South Africa
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Rock
Best season
October to April
About Secrets Beach
Secrets Beach is a small, secluded stretch of coast on the Marine Drive coastline south-west of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), near the village of Schoenmakerskop in the Eastern Cape. It is not a classic sandy bathing beach: the shore is mostly rock, with pebbles, shells, small patches of sand and tidal pools, reached by footpaths down from the coastal road. It is known more as a quiet place for sunrise walks, beachcombing and rock-pool lounging than for swimming, and the sea here can be rough and unpredictable, with waves breaking over the rocks. Wind is often lighter than on other Gqeberha beaches. The beach has long been listed among South Africa's places for nude sunbathing, but in practice nudity is occasional rather than normal: visitors are mainly locals, couples, dog walkers and photographers, and the open access points and rocky layout make it awkward to find a private spot. Anyone wanting to sunbathe nude should pick a secluded hollow among the rocks and be prepared for passers-by.
Getting there
Drive west from Gqeberha along Marine Drive toward Schoenmakerskop; there is no public transport, so come by car or taxi. Park in the informal gravel parking area overlooking the sea. From there, uneven bush or sandy-rocky footpaths lead down to the shore; they can be slippery, and the walk is moderate. Wear sturdy shoes for the rocks. There are no facilities and no wheelchair access.
What visitors say
The few reports describe a peaceful, uncrowded and beautiful rocky shore, good for solitude, sunrise and tidal pools but poor for swimming. Visitors warn about sudden large waves near the rocks and slippery paths. Naturists note that nude use is infrequent and that dog walkers and open access points mean little privacy.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
South Africa has no beach where nude bathing is legally protected, and Secrets Beach has no municipal designation from Nelson Mandela Bay (checked 2026). Simple nudity in secluded spots is rarely prosecuted, but public-indecency complaints remain possible, so be discreet when others are near.
Naturism at Secrets Beach sits under South Africa's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: South Africa public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. -34.0356, 25.6441
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in South Africa
Frequently asked questions
Is Secrets Beach a nude beach?
It is listed as one, but nudity is occasional rather than common, and there is no official designation.
Can I swim there?
It is better for rock pools than swimming; waves near the rocks can be dangerous.
Is there parking?
Yes, an informal gravel parking area above the shore. There is no public transport.
Are there facilities?
None. Bring water and take your rubbish with you.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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