NEIGHBOURHOOD
PROPERTY | Spotlight on Brookes Hill
This tiny PE suburb is investment heaven with unprecedented views of the beach and ocean
Brookes Hill, given its magnificent sea views and location along Port Elizabeth’s main beachfront, is one of the Friendly City’s most sought-after addresses.
Karin van Straten has lived at Brookes Hill for more than 20 years and says she is very patriotic about it.
“Brookes Hill is the best PE has to offer. It could compete with the likes of Bantry Bay and other high-end locations in Cape Town,” she says.
According to Karin, most of the hill historically belonged to one owner who operated a caravan park and holiday resort there for many years before sub-dividing and selling off the land, which now attracts premium prices.
“Besides the best view over the ocean, everything is within walking distance and properties here are a great investment,” Karin says.
Many of the properties on the hill are quite similar as their style gets governed by a homeowners’ association, with plans to be pre-approved before building.
“What I love about my home is the fresh, contemporary open areas with ample sunlight streaming in daily.It has the best view I’ve ever seen and I love being in the heart of PE,” she says.
“I adore the property market, it’s my passion. That’s why I’ve always just invested on the hill. There’s no equal.”
Schooling
There are no schools in Brookes Hill as such, but there are excellent schools in Summerstrand, including Summerwood Primary School, Cape Recife and Pearson High School.
Explore
Although the area’s chic apartments constitute high-density living, Karin says it’s still surprisingly peaceful and quiet. At night the waves can be clearly heard.
Since the clubs at what used to be Brookes Pavilion – now Brookes on the Bay – closed some time ago, there’s not much by way of noisy partying being done in the area.
“One would have to travel a little into Summerstrand for that,” Karin says.
Popular nearby bars and night spots include White Tiger, Beershack and Cubana, which offer entertainment for the more lively crowd.
King’s Beach, Denvill’s Beach and Humewood Beach are all within walking distance and a must for watersports enthusiasts or anyone just wanting to take a dip or go for a relaxing stroll.
Shop
Brookes Hill is home to Dolphins Leap which does have some shops, though it’s mostly known for its restaurants.
For serious shopping, you can either head to nearby Summerstrand Village, where Pick n Pay is the anchor tenant, or pop in at the SuperSPAR complex in Humerail.
The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment Centre near Brookes Hill also has a variety of shops, mostly catering to visitors, and an African-themed craft market at its centre.
“If you’ve lived here, there’s just no substitute or equal in Port Elizabeth and surrounding areas as the view is uncompromised. It further yields a solid return on your investment,” says Karin.
Property prices
Brookes Hill is a tiny suburb sandwiched between Humewood and Summerstrand and accurate property prices are not available due to its small size.
Although a one-bedroomed flat in the neighbouring suburb of Humewood is likely to cost in the region of R519,000, a property in Brookes Hill is likely to be more expensive.
A typical three-bedroomed house in Humewood would be in the region of R3-million.
There are many flats and complexes around Brookes Hill.
Eat
La Kouzina: a varied menu – from pasta and pizza, to sushi and burgers
Coachman on the Bay: next to the ocean serving great steaks
Raasoie: hearty Indian cuisine
Ocean Basket: decent seafood
Company Social Brasserie: craft beers and awesome burgers
Bayside Pantry at the Boardwalk nearby: for the best buffet in town
News Cafe: their breakfasts and smoothies are a must
Blue Waters Cafe: breakfast, lunch and dinner with views of the harbour
Ginger: for a fine-dining experience
Do
The beaches are the biggest attraction by far.
Bayworld, comprising an oceanarium, snake park and museum, still draws a steady number of visitors.
The super tubes at Kings Beach are popular in summer.
The Boardwalk complex in Summerstrand has entertainment options for all ages.
The historic MacArthur baths complex has well-maintained pools boasting an unbeatable ocean view.
Eco-friendly estate Amadada has walking trails to Happy Valley and the Boardwalk, and even a small 4x4 trail.
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