The British decided it was essential to exert control over the area, especially in view of the possibility of foreign powers landing there and the harbour being used by gun runners. In July 1878 an agreement was reached with the Pondo chief, whereby the harbour and surrounding land was ceded to the British.

The last coaster called in the harbour in December 1944 and ended the town's days as a harbour.

The famous wandering hippo, Huberta, arrived in the village in March 1930, and for six months took up residence in the river, where none of her kind had been seen for years. She grazed in the gardens in the village, overturned a few boats, caused upsets and more than a few laughs and then continued on her way southwards. Gardens and vegetation are luxurious and there are magnificent beaches.

The bell from the ship the Clan Gordon, whose captain reputedly lost it in a game of dice, hangs outside the town hall. There is a warm mineral spring a few kilometres outside the town, which the Mpondo named Isinuka (the stinking one)

Port St Johns is, undoubtedly, the jewel of the Wild Coast, an authentic piece of Africa at the mouth of the Umzimvubu River, embedded in subtropical rainforests. Port St Johns is an African village and you also see colourful folks here, as it has become a mecca for hippies.

And especially during the school holidays Port St Johns is a popular holiday destination due to the excellent fishing spots at the river and at the sea, and because you can do some normal grocery shopping here, which is rare at the Wild Coast.

Port St Johns has three beaches. The Second Beach, 5 kilometres east of the village centre, is the prettiest, surrounded by evergreen rainforest and wild banana trees.

It is also one of the highlights on any international backpacker's world itinerary because of its natural setting, frontier atmosphere and appeal to more adventurous younger travellers