Jeffreys Bay, South Africa

Capital City

This coastal town of 27,107 inhabitants is a surfer's paradise, but the bureaucratic headaches and safety concerns may leave some newcomers feeling more wipe-out than stoked. Jeffreys Bay is famous for its world-class right-hand point break, drawing professional surfers and spectators from around the globe for the annual World Surf League event. However, the town's rapid expansion has not been without growing pains, with persistent challenges around infrastructure and public services. Outdoor enthusiasts will find abundant natural wonders, from the nearby nature reserves teeming with birdlife to the regular whale sightings during migration season. But those seeking a seamless relocation should brace themselves for the bureaucratic tangles that come with settling in this Eastern Cape destination.