Strandfontein, Cape West Coast

Strandfontein is a small sea side village situated at the mouth of the Olifants River. Strandfontein ('beach fountain') has evolved from being an small rural beach resort to a bustling tourist hub, especially during the wild flower season (late July to September) and during the South African summer when the town is a favourite with locals as a weekend or holiday destination.

Strandfontein has become a popular holiday destination because of the excellent opportunities for the observation of Southern Right whales which come close into the protective bay during their calving season. Chances of spotting the Southern Rights frolicking in the bay with their babies close by at this time are excellent.

The long white sandy beach at Strandfontein stretches for kilometres and the clear blue sea is a draw-card for anglers due to the abundance of crayfish and mussels found in these waters. (please note that a license is required!) Besides the excellent fishing at Strandfontein there are a wide variety of watersports activities available. A safe tidal pool and playground will keep children entertained for hours and there is a slipway for rubber boats. Other activities available include quad biking, 4x4 trails, hiking, microlight and gyrocopter trips.

The earliest residents of this area were the Khoisan, who got their drinking water from a fountain on the beach. This is where the name Strandfontein comes from, which literally translates to "beach fountain".