Areena Riverside Resort Kwelera Interior photoAreena Riverside Resort Kwelera Exterior photoAreena Riverside Resort Kwelera Exterior photo
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From79US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Resort

Corner Schafli Road And Glen Garriff Turn Off, East Coast Resorts, Kwelera, Kwelera, South Africa, 5259
-
Near Kwelera National Botanical Garden
Great
8.9
8.3
/10
4.5
4.5
/5

Amenities

Areena Riverside Resort provides unique amenities focused on nature and adventure. The resort encompasses a 350-hectare, malaria-free private game reserve that showcases various species, including blue wildebeest and giraffes. Guests can engage in activities like quad biking, abseiling, and paddleboarding along the Kwelera River.

Accommodation

The resort offers a range of self-catering units, including family cottages, rondavels, and timber chalets. Riverside timber chalets provide guests with peaceful riverside views, accommodating up to six persons. Apartments for couples and corporate guests allow for a comfortable stay with fully equipped kitchens.

Location

Areena Riverside Resort is located on the banks of the Kwelera tidal river, just 23 km east of East London. The entrance is easily accessible via a tar road, with a notable beach at the river mouth just 5 km away. Visitors can experience stunning views and local wildlife in this beautiful part of the Eastern Cape.

Wellness

The Areena Spa offers relaxation and pampering services for guests looking to unwind. Eco-friendly treatments utilize natural products, focusing on holistic wellness. Guests can also participate in yoga sessions organized by experienced instructors.

Family-Friendly Activities

Children can explore a variety of activities within a safe environment at Areena Riverside Resort. The resort includes two playgrounds, a swimming pool, and a touch farm featuring friendly animals. Kids can also enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing along the river.

Highlights

Location: Kwelera tidal river, 5 km from the beach

Accommodation: Timber chalets with river views

Dining: Quay's Restaurant on the riverbank

Adventure: Private game reserve with wildlife safaris

Activities: Ziplining, canoeing, and abseiling options

Family-Friendly: Two playgrounds and a touch farm

“This Kwelera resort stands out for its embrace of both adventure and the environment. Its blend of wildlife encounters and thrill activities appeals, yet I'd suggest confirming the consistency of dining service. For families seeking active recreation in a natural setting, it presents a compelling option.”
Hotel logo
Emma JohnsonEditor-in-Chief at Toresort
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Select your room type

Areena Riverside Resort offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Two-Bedroom Chalet River View
2 persons
810 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
485 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Areena Riverside Resort offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Internet access
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Hairdresser
  • Fireplace
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Tennis court
  • Billiard tables
  • Darts
  • Table tennis
  • Archery
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Children's buffet
  • Children's play area
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage
  • Shallow end
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Bedroom

  • Electric blankets

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
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Dining Onsite

At Areena Riverside Resort, dining unfolds in a delightful setting that embraces the heart of South African flavors. Guests can enjoy culinary experiences at Areena Quays Restaurant, where the inviting atmosphere enhances every meal, providing a perfect backdrop for families and friends to gather.
Areena Riverside Resort Kwelera Restaurant photo
Areena Riverside Resort Kwelera Restaurant photo

Areena Quays Restaurant

South African
Ambiance
Family-friendly, warm, and inviting setting perfect for casual dining
Key Offerings
A varied menu featuring hearty South African dishes, gourmet milkshakes, and delicious waffles, alongside a selection of sundowners and cold beers available to sip by the river.
Reservation
Not needed
Thursday and Friday: 11:00 - 20:00; Saturday: 09:00 - 20:00; Sunday: 09:00 - 14:00

Areena Riverside Resort Location

Corner Schafli Road And Glen Garriff Turn Off, East Coast Resorts, Kwelera, Kwelera, South Africa, 5259
Map view
Corner Schafli Road And Glen Garriff Turn Off, East Coast Resorts, Kwelera, Kwelera, South Africa, 5259
Explore Kwelera
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Kwelera National Botanical Garden
30 minutes' walk
A diverse collection of indigenous plants, ideal for nature lovers. Guided tours enhance the experience.
Glen Muir Holiday Resort
10-minute drive
This resort offers a variety of outdoor activities and family-friendly amenities within a scenic environment.
Hiking Trails
10-minute drive
Well-marked trails for all skill levels. Local guides available for hire to provide insights on the flora and fauna.
Yoga Classes
30 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions offered at nearby studios, focusing on mindfulness and well-being.
The Riverside Grille
5-minute drive
Casual dining with local favorites. Signature dishes include grilled seafood with stunning river views.
Kwelera Kitchen
30 minutes' walk
Family-friendly atmosphere serving hearty meals with vegetarian options. Reservations recommended on weekends.
The Bright Lights Theatre
10-minute drive
Local performances from plays to concerts, with a lively atmosphere and weekly events.
The Chill Lounge
5-minute drive
A vibrant bar featuring live music. Perfect for casual nights out with friends; family-friendly early hours.
Getting around
City Centre
Kwelera2 min  ·  400 ft
Airports
East London (ELS)60 min  ·  24.7 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:30-17:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
High-speed internet access is available in public areas for additional charge.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
6

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Areena Riverside Resort from previous guests about their experience
Review score
Based on 105 verified reviews
8.4/10
Great
87%
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Location
9.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
4.3/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
9.1/10
Pros
Tranquil location
Delicious food
Friendly staff
Cons
Security issues
Overcharging
Outdated infrastructure
Guest reviews
based on 185 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About Areena Riverside Resort
What activities can be enjoyed at the resort, such as hiking or canoeing?
15 January 2024
Many activities are offered at the resort, including hiking and canoeing. Bookings should be made in advance with full payment to confirm your spot due to high demand.
Could you provide pricing details for activities like quad biking and zip lining for two participants?
22 January 2024
For specific prices on activities, please refer to the official website at www.areenaresort.com.
Does the resort have buffet dining options, and if so, which days are they available?
5 February 2024
For buffet dining options and schedules, please visit the restaurant section on the resort's website: https://www.areenaresort.com/restaurant/.
Is halaal catering available at the resort's restaurant?
18 February 2024
Halaal options are not regularly available, but the restaurant can accommodate specific requests if needed.
Is it possible to arrange an early check-in at the resort?
3 March 2024
Early check-in can be organized by contacting the office in advance to make the necessary arrangements.
Can you provide a list of activities available at the resort?
25 March 2024
For a complete list of activities, please contact the resort directly.
Is Wi-Fi available on the premises, and is breakfast provided?
10 April 2024
Wi-Fi bundles are available for purchase, and there is a restaurant on-site that offers breakfast.
Can visitors enjoy a day of activities like quad biking and have lunch without prior booking?
22 April 2024
All activities and meals must be booked in advance to guarantee availability as the resort often reaches capacity.
Are there any special rates for senior guests regarding camping?
1 May 2024
There are senior rates available for camping, offering discounts for older visitors.
Are the adventure activities included in the accommodation booking price?
15 May 2024
Adventure activities are not included in the accommodation price and need to be booked separately in advance.

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