A long layover in Port Saint Johns is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Port St Johns Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside JOH
Three things to verify before you walk out of JOH:
- Can you legally enter South Africa? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi/Private Car, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ZAR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ZAR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Port Saint Johns from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Port Saint Johns is the Taxi/Private Car, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Private Car is usually the smarter call.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at JOH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Port Saint Johns itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Port Saint Johns:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $10 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $25 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to See and Do in Port Saint Johns
For a layover visit to Port Saint Johns, we’d suggest Cape Hermes Lighthouse and Second Beach Relaxation. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside JOH, you can spend time at Airport Waiting Area or try Local Aviation Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
In Port Saint Johns
If you make it into town, The Pont Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mzimvubu River Lodge Restaurant.
Inside JOH
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airstrip Snack Kiosk is your main option. Self-Service Coffee Station works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at JOH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in South Africa and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at JOH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Port Saint Johns exploring the streets or relaxing at JOH, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.