The Boardwalk Casino Gqeberha

The Boardwalk Casino — Gqeberha’s Beachfront Gaming Destination

The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World is the only licensed casino in Nelson Mandela Bay, occupying a prime beachfront location in Summerstrand, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Operated by Sun International (JSE: SUI) since opening in October 2000, the complex combines a full gaming floor with a 5-star hotel, 13 restaurants, a conference centre, and direct access to the Blue Flag-rated Hobie Beach. A R270 million Capital Boardwalk Hotel opening in April 2026 signals continued investment in the property.

Gaming Floor Overview

The casino floor offers approximately 900 slot machines with denominations starting from just 2 cents, alongside 24 table games including American Roulette, Blackjack, Blackjack Switch, Poker, and Baccarat. Both smoking and non-smoking sections are available, with dedicated lounge areas for breaks between sessions. A VIP casino room provides an elevated experience for high-rollers, with enhanced amenities and higher betting limits.

The Boardwalk Hotel — 5-Star Beachfront Luxury

The 5-star Boardwalk Hotel offers 140 rooms, with 120 featuring direct Indian Ocean views. Rooms include king-size beds, DStv satellite TV, complimentary WiFi, minibars, and private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers. On-site amenities include a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a fitness room, sauna, bowling alley, and mini golf. The International Conference Centre — the largest in Port Elizabeth — serves the corporate market.

Sun International and MVG Rewards

As a Sun International property, The Boardwalk integrates fully with the Sun MVG loyalty programme. Free to join, MVG offers tiered membership — Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond — with points earned through casino play, hotel stays, and dining. Casino Points convert to playback on slots and tables, while Leisure Points redeem across Sun International’s entire portfolio of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues nationwide.

Dining and Entertainment

The Boardwalk complex features 13 restaurants and bars spanning multiple cuisines. Upscale options include El Greco (Greek-Mediterranean), Leonardo’s Italian Ristorante, Squires steakhouse (considered among the best in the country), Yi Pin Oriental, and Kiplings Brasserie for fine dining. Casual and family dining is covered by Spur, Wimpy, Steers, and Dulcé Café. News Café provides cocktails in a relaxed setting. The Starz Cinema offers 5 movie screens, while Supersport Arena hosts comedy and live music acts. The Boardwalk Amphitheatre provides outdoor entertainment, and a modern video arcade caters to younger visitors.

Boardwalk Mall Expansion

The Boardwalk Mall continues to grow, with a Phase 2 expansion breaking ground in January 2026. The R60 million project adds 2,584 m² of gross lettable area, including padel courts, a five-a-side soccer facility, and new retail tenants. A Woolworths Premium Local Store — the first in the Eastern Cape — opened in November 2025, adding 237 m² of premium grocery retail to the precinct.

Location and Nearby Attractions

Set on Beach Road in Summerstrand, the Boardwalk is equidistant from Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. The complex features man-made lakes and gardens illuminated by 40,000 Tivoli lights. Hobie Beach — a Blue Flag-certified beach — is just minutes away, with Shark Rock Pier and beachfront markets nearby. Addo Elephant National Park is approximately one hour’s drive, while multiple Eastern Cape game reserves offer safari experiences within easy reach.

VIP Programme & Loyalty Rewards

Sun International’s Most Valued Guest (MVG) programme rewards loyal players across all Sun International properties in Africa. MVG members earn Sun Rand points on every wager, redeemable for gaming credits, hotel stays, dining, and entertainment experiences. The programme operates across five tiers — Blue, Gold, Platinum, Black, and Black Reserve — with each level unlocking progressively premium benefits including dedicated hosts, priority parking, express check-in, and exclusive event invitations. At this venue in Port Elizabeth, MVG members enjoy access to the Salon Privé high-limit gaming area, complimentary beverages during play, and preferential rates on accommodation packages.

Accommodation Near the Casino

Visitors to The Boardwalk Casino Gqeberha have a range of accommodation options. The integrated resort features on-site hotel accommodation, allowing guests to enjoy seamless access between their rooms and the gaming floor. Package deals combining accommodation, dining, and gaming credits are frequently available — check the property website or contact reservations directly for current offers. Port Elizabeth also offers a wide selection of hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments in all price ranges within easy reach of the casino, from luxury five-star properties to comfortable budget-friendly options suitable for families and solo travellers alike.

Dining & Entertainment

Beyond the gaming floor, this Port Elizabeth venue offers a diverse dining and entertainment experience. On-site restaurants and bars serve a variety of cuisines, from fine dining to casual fare, catering to both pre-game meals and late-night bites. Many South Africa casino complexes also feature live entertainment, including music performances, comedy shows, and themed event nights. Check the venue’s events calendar for upcoming performances and special promotions during your visit.

Getting There & Visitor Information

Nearest airport: Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ)
Location: Summerstrand beachfront
Currency: ZAR (South African Rand)
Minimum age: 18 years

Visitors should carry valid photo identification (passport for international visitors, national ID for South Africa residents) as ID checks are mandatory at all licensed casino venues. Smart casual dress is generally expected; some VIP areas may enforce a stricter dress code. Contact the casino directly for current opening hours and any specific entry requirements.

Nearby Attractions & Tourism

Port Elizabeth is a vibrant destination offering much more than casino gaming. Visitors can explore a range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions in the surrounding area. Whether you’re extending your stay or looking for daytime activities, Port Elizabeth and the broader South Africa region provide world-class tourism experiences. For a complete guide to gambling regulations and other casino venues in the country, visit our South Africa gambling guide.

Explore more casinos in the Southern Africa region.

Gambling Regulation in South Africa

Regulatory body: National Gambling Board and Provincial Gambling Boards
Governing legislation: National Gambling Act (No. 7 of 2004)
Minimum gambling age: 18
Responsible gambling helpline: South African Responsible Gambling Foundation: 0800 006 008

South Africa operates one of Africa’s most mature and well-regulated gambling markets. Each province has its own Gambling Board responsible for issuing casino licences and monitoring compliance. The National Gambling Board oversees the industry nationally, setting standards for responsible gambling, anti-money laundering, and player protection. All casinos must display responsible gambling messaging prominently, offer self-exclusion programmes, and contribute to the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP). South African casinos are subject to regular compliance audits and must adhere to strict anti-money laundering requirements under the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA). The gaming tax varies by province, typically ranging from 9% to 15% of gross gaming revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours?

Most African land-based casinos operate extended hours, typically from 10:00 to 04:00 or later. Some venues in major tourism destinations offer 24-hour gaming. Contact The Boardwalk Casino Gqeberha directly for current opening hours, as these may vary during public holidays and special events.

What is the minimum age to enter?

The minimum gambling age in South Africa is 18 years. All visitors must present valid photo identification upon entry. International visitors should carry their passport; South Africa nationals may use a national identity document.

What games are available?

The Boardwalk Casino Gqeberha offers approximately 750 slot machines and 25 table games. Table games typically include blackjack, roulette, poker variants, and baccarat. The specific game selection may vary — contact the venue for current offerings.

Is there a dress code?

Smart casual attire is generally expected on the main gaming floor. VIP and Salon Privé areas may require more formal dress. Sportswear, flip-flops, and beachwear are typically not permitted. Check with the venue for specific dress code requirements.

Can international visitors play?

Yes, international visitors are welcome at The Boardwalk Casino Gqeberha. A valid passport is required for entry. Gaming is conducted in ZAR, and most venues accept major credit cards and may offer currency exchange services. Check current exchange rates before your visit.

Is there parking available?

The Boardwalk Casino Gqeberha typically offers on-site parking for guests. Larger resort-style casinos provide complimentary parking, while some city-centre venues may charge for parking or validate with a gaming floor visit. VIP and loyalty programme members often receive preferential parking benefits.

Responsible Gambling

Gambling involves risk. The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement or encouragement to gamble. Always gamble responsibly, set personal limits before you play, and never wager more than you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please contact South African Responsible Gambling Foundation: 0800 006 008 for confidential support and resources. Casinos Africa is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices across the continent.

Information last verified: March 2026. Casino offerings, opening hours, and regulations may change. Contact the venue directly for the most current information.