West Coast Wonders

When you wander up the R27 coastal road that winds up the West Coast of South Africa, you pass through towns and villages that make you think you have somehow stepped back in time. Towns and villages that are untouched by the frenetic energy of the city maintain the same steady pulse of living that has sustained them for decades. Here the clock ticks to the rhythm of nature with sea being main source of income for the fishing villages that dot the coast and the canning factories in Saldanha and Port Owen. For many the West Coast is a forgotten region as it is off the normal tourist track, but it rewards intrepid travellers with a unique perspective on South African life.

The sea too is the the main attraction for most of the visitors venturing up the coast. Yzerfontein is a hugely popular resort town and within easy reach from Cape Town that attract locals and tourists throughout the year. It is a favoured fishing spot and when the snoek runs, fisherman come from all over. Few experiences can beat the rustic bliss of sitting around a fire on the beach with fishsizzling on the coals and a black cast iron pot ready for the crayfish as the divers take it out of the water. Round off the meal with freshly baked bread and apricot jam and you have regional food at its best.

In September the land is transformed into a rainbow panorama of flowers. It’s difficult to walk for fear of crushing the delicate indigenous flowers with every step. The yearly flower spectacle is worth a special trip to see the usually dry plains metamorphis into a natural wonder. A special place to visit is Velddrift, a tranquil get-away from city life with beautiful wide open spaces. The people of this village will make you feel like you’re long-lost family and go out of their way to make you feel at home.

Dwarskersbos is another favorite place. This is a very popular holiday resort for locals and tourists alike. During season they have great entertainment programs, the accommodation caters to all and the restaurant will pack day-food packages for hikers to the Rocher pan, a favourite amongst bird watchers and photographers waiting for that perfect sunset shot. In season the West Coast National Park Reserve is another essential place to visit. With turquoise water and plenty of wildlife, this is one of the lesser-known jewels on the South African tourism treasure map. Take an umbrella and a picnic you'll find it difficult to believe that you're not on a tropical island for the day.

The impressions of the West Coast that remain after returning to the bustle of the city are those of freedom and wide open spaces where you can breathe. The West Coast offers many revitalizing getaway opportunities and is definitely worth considering when visiting Cape Town.

Links to Related Pages:
Cape West Coast
West Coast National Park
West Coast Accommodation

Popular Towns on the Cape West Coast include:
• Britannia Bay
• Lamberts Bay
• Langebaan
• Darling
• Jacobsbaai
• Saldanha
• Shelley Point
• St Helena Bay
• Strandfontein
• Paternoster
• Vredendal
• Yzerfontein

Trendy Camps Bay

My friend Brian - tall, skinny and covered with tattoos, is a waiter in one of the trendiest restaurants in Camps Bay. I'm waiting for him to get off work in an hour so we can go down to the beach and to fill the time, he is giving me the low-down on the mating habits of the Greater Spotted Camps Bay Trendoid.“See the guy over there wearing the giant mirrored sunglasses?” he asks. I look over to where he is gesturing. “You're gonna have to be more specific than that, mate” I reply, “they're all wearing giant mirrored sunglasses.” He surreptitiously points to a guy inexplicably wearing a white suit on one of the hottest days of the year. “He's some kind of big-shot architect. “The model he's with is the new Guess girl,” he says, “and he just asked for a one of our most expensive whiskeys, with a Coke mixer.” Money, it seems, can't buy good taste.

But it can buy you an amazing house, a ridiculously flashy car and a white Chihuahua named Fritz, and most of Camps Bay's residents have all three. This little cove of affluence is undeniably Cape Town’s playground for the rich and famous. Likened to St Tropez, the area is home to many of the city’s rich and famous, and attracts tourists and locals alike who either are, or aspire to, live the high life. Reached from Cape Town via Seapoint, on Victoria Road, over the mountain at Kloof Nek, or from the Hout Bay side along the Twelve Apostles, Camps Bay lies in a sheltered bay backed by Table Mountain.

The town's history is not nearly as glamorous but stretches back almost to the arrival of Jan Van Riebeeck in the Cape, when it was granted in 1700 to John Lodewyk Wernich, who built his farm, Ravensteyn on the land, then known as Roodekrantz, because of the red tint of the soil. When Wernich passed away, his wife remarried, and her new husband’s name, Fredrik Ernst Von Kamptz, leaves little doubt as to the origins of the modern name – Camps Bay.

The area has a colourful history, having been fortified by the French in the late 18th century, during their battles with the English, and when the farm was destroyed by these battles, the government bought the land back, and established two small batteries.Much later on, in 1855, Captain Glendinning, then the only permanent resident in the area, attempted to sell 40 plots in Camps Bay, however, even his announcement that there was gold to be found in Camps Bay could not generate interest. If only Captain Glendinning had known the attention his piece of real estate would generate in modern days! Property in Camps Bay is now some of the most expensive and sought after in the Western Cape.

As far as modern Camps Bay is concerned, most of the activities in the area are dedicated to pure hedonism and decadence. Lazing on the beach, taking in a show at the Theatre on the Bay, or visiting one of the many restaurants, bars and coffee shops that line the main road alongside the beach are some of the most strenuous activities that locals and tourists are likely to encounter.

There are a few hiking trails in the area, and a popular activity for locals is to hike up the mountain at Kloof Nek and watch the moon rise over the mother city. If you’re like most though, you will want to take advantage of the pristine beaches, lined with lush green shaded lawns, maybe take a swim in the cool water, and watch the pleasure crafts loaded with revelers pass by en route to neighboring Clifton.

This, followed up with a cocktail in one of the trendy bars overlooking the beaches, while you split your attention between celebrity spotting, and watching the sun set over the water, is just about what every day in Camps Bay is like.

Related Pages & Links:
Camps Bay Accommodation
Cape Town Accommodation
Cape Town Attractions

The Story of the Cape Coast

To the first indigenous people of the Cape, the Khoisan, Table Mountain held a particular sacred significance. There are many stories about the great mountain, and in some of these, the moutain itself is a storyteller, overlooking the surrounding area and telling about what it sees. Looking down from the mountain one can see the Cape coastline weaving a jagged boundary between the land and the sea. Perhaps one of the stories that the mountain would tell would be about the thousands of people that come every year to visit those ephemeral patches of sand that line the coast. If Johannesburg is Egoli, (the city of gold in Sotho and is defined by its most precious resource), then surely Cape Town is no different? Perhaps then Cape Town is the city of silver, her most precious resource being the silver-sand beaches that seem to hold so many in thrall.

Two oceans converge at Cape Point and the landmass acts as a separator for the two basic types of beaches. The warmer Indian Ocean and the False Bay coast are the family beaches that offer swimming, surfing, fishing, paddling, walking and all round family orientated entertainment. Most of these beaches are manned by lifeguards and relatively safe for swimming. The False Bay Coast hosts the well-known Boulders Beach where tourists go penguin watching. Muizenberg beach is popular with locals and has facilities that are a favourite with the kiddies, including a putt-putt course and waterslides. The stretch between Strandfontein beach and The Strand holds treacherous waters and is mostly the hang out of fishermen. There are more than a few “old men of the sea” in the Cape, and the stories of the coastline that first enticed settlers to build a way-station on her shores are many. The Cape coast has a whole mythology surrounding her, filled with violent storms, valiant heroes and even reputedly mermaids. But those are other stories for other times.

Beaches on the Atlantic coast are almost the opposite, with trendy beaches lined by cocktail bars. Definitely geared up for the sophisticated crowd; the beaches stretch from the V&A Waterfront and meander around Table Mountain to the beautiful “Republic” of Hout Bay. Although the mountain gives welcome shelter from the infamous south-east wind, these beaches are 'cool' in more than one way. The Atlantic Ocean can at best be described as “refreshing” and has surprised more than one tourist who thought that African water can't really be that cold. The four beaches of Clifton and Llandudno (often mispronounced by Gaelic visitors, the correct way to say it is Lun-dud-no) are world-famous, during season the beaches are crowded; definitely the place to be seen, great for sunbathing, volley-ball and sundowners. Beaches along this stretch have numerous restaurants and coffee shops that cater to all tastes.

The North Atlantic Seaboard (Blaauwberg) includes Bloubergstrand and Milnerton. Beautiful long beaches where the locals go to enjoy the less crowded spaces; excellent for walks, surfing and kite-surfing. The view of Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand has been immortalised on postcards often sent to loved ones from Cape Town's shores, each one sending a small piece of Table Mountain's story to people around the world.\

Related Pages & Links:
Cape Town Beaches
Cape Town Accommodation
Cape Town Attractions

Surfing in Cape Town

With around forty-nine established surf spots all within an hour’s drive and the choice of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is somewhat of a haven for surfers from around the world. Cape Town has a very active surfing community and the variety of surfspots means that everybody can be accomodated.

If you’re looking for a beginner’s wave, one of the best beaches to start off is Muizenberg beach. Muizenberg offers gentle waves, but they are fun and just keep on coming all day long. Not really the right kind of beach if you’re looking to carve your name or ride barrels. But if you’re into the soulride of longboarding then Muizenberg is pure magic. This is the beach to take someone who has never surfed before. It’s easily accessible and there are boards available to rent on the beach.

If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, then Long Beach near Kommetjie is a good bet. It offers a decent-sized shorebreak and is perfect for showing off a little. Travel a little further round and you come to Boneyards, a wave that’s perfect when it’s glassy. It’s quite a paddle, so make sure you’ve got the fitness and stamina before you try this one. Outer Kom is a point break that can get really big and an epic spot for paddling out and getting some bigger wave action.

Llandudno is one of the most beautiful beaches to surf here in Cape Town. The water is clear and the pure white sand is laced with some of our most beautiful natural heritage lying tanning, soaking up the sun and watching the surf. The best time to hit this spot is in spring and summer, because during this time the banks create a hollow beach break with some mad barrels. If you follow the locals you’ll see the best spot is to the right, near the rocks.

But if it’s the huge waves that give you butterflies in your stomach that you’re in search of then two spots stand out; Dungeons and the Crayfish Factory. Just the name ‘Dungeons’ says it all. Forming part of the international big wave circuit, this right hander starts breaking at about eight feet and you need to know what you are doing. If eight foot not big enough for you then give your mother one last kiss and make your way to the Crayfish Factory. Named because it breaks just off a reef near a local crayfish factory, this spot is reserved for those surfers who are willing to risk everything for the ultimate ride and rush. Although the conditions are not always good, when the time is right you’ll find yourself at the top of a massive twelve foot wave. Good luck my friend.

Useful Contacts:
If you’re not to sure what the conditions may be like at the beach you’re heading to, there are a number of ways to get the scoop. Local radio station 5FM offers a surf report at various times throughout the day, but for the most comprehensive report that is updated regularly, call Tich Paul on 082 2346 340 and find out exactly what you’re in for.

Related Pages:
Cape Town Beaches
Cape Town Attractions
Cape Town Accommodation
Surfing in South Africa

Sea Kayaking in Cape Town

Sea kayaking with Coastal Kayak Trails along the Cape Peninsula are varied, from a relaxing 2 hour sunset trip near the Cape Town city centre to exciting kayaking around Cape Point, from encounters with penguins at Boulders Beach near Simonstown to encounters with Southern Right Whales, the endemic Heaviside Dolphins and also Dusky, Common and Bottlenose dolphins, Cape Fur Seals, African Penguin and a variety of other sea birds ...

Photograph: Kayaking from Three Anchor Bay towards Sea Point - view of Sea point and Lion's Head in the background (Cape Town, December 2006).

No previous kayaking experience is needed. All the kayaking and safety gear is provided. Kaskazi double kayaks provide for a comfortable and safe ride. Experienced guides ensure your safety.

Based in Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town, South Africa - a dedicated sea kayaking outlet specialising in offering the best guided sea trips along the coast of South Africa. Coastal Kayak have a small staff of dedicated paddlers, who know their products, are passionate about kayaking and who actively paddle. Visit them at 179 Main Road in Three Anchor Bay for free advice, try out a kayak (we are on the water), or just pop in for a chat.

Kayaking Excursions available in Cape Town:
Cape Town / Mouille Point: Enjoy a sunset at sea from a kayak. This venue is less than 10 minutes' drive from the city centre - the ideal after work trip for Capetonians. Relax on this 2-hour trip with spectacular views of Lions Head and Table Mountain, and there is always the chance that seals, penguins and even Heaviside dolphins will visit.

Simonstown / Cape Point: Come kayak with the penguins off Boulders beach. 2-hr and 4-hr trips available from the base at Simonstown. Also day trips from Buffels Bay to Cape Point, and back along the coast past Smitswinkel Bay and Millers Point to Simonstown.

Costs: No kayaking experience is needed for any of our trips. Stable kayaks and experienced guides allow for novices to experience the magic of sea kayaking. Wetsuits are not required - we only use sea kayaks equipped with spray covers to keep the water out and you comfortably warm and secure inside. On any trip the total group size is generally between 6 and 10 and never exceeds 12.
2 hour trips: R200
4-hour trips: R300
Full - day: from R 350

CONTACT COASTAL KAYAKS:
Physical Address: 179 Beach Rd, Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town
Tel: +27 (0)21 439 1134.
Cellular/Mobile: 083 310 1253

Top 10 Topless Beaches

Forbes.com has again compiled their annual list of Top Topless Beaches. To make the list, a set of criteria are imposed which include: a recognized consensus to go topless, consistently sunny weather, beautiful scenery, a young, fun crowd and easily accessible bars, restaurants and boutiques.

And The Top 10 Topless Beaches for 2006 are...
• Anse du Gouverneur, St. Barts
• Black's Beach, San Diego
• CLIFTON BEACH, CAPE TOWN
• Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro
• Illetes, Formentera, Spain
• La Voile Rouge, St. Tropez, France
• Las Salinas, Ibiza, Spain
• Manly Beach, Sydney
• Nikki Beach, St. Tropez
• Paradise Beach, Mykonos, Greece
• Plage de Pampelonne, St. Tropez
• Santa Maria, Forte Dei Marmi, Italy
• South Beach, Miami

ABOUT CLIFTON BEACH: Clifton was rated as one of the Top Ten Beaches by the satellite television network Discovery Travel Channel in 2003 and 2004 and has received Blue Flag status. In 2005 and 2006 it was rated by Forbes.com as one of the Top 10 Topless beaches in the World.

At the northwest tip of South Africa's Cape Peninsula lies the swanky coastal gem Clifton Beach, a haven for international hipsters and jet-setters. Clifton is a series of four beaches, each separated by a stretch of granite boulders. The beach is sprawling and clean, reflecting the brilliant sunshine off white sand and throngs of tanned bodies. A distinct vibe is felt at Clifton, owing in part to the mystique of Table Mountain, which looms in the beach's background, and in part to the glamorous pulse of the surrounding neighborhood ... For additional info please visit: Clifton Beach, Cape Town.

TRAVEL TIP: For an unforgettable holiday, spend a week or two in Cape Town at this famous beach. Christine's Beach Cottage is an exclusive private house in Clifton that offers comfortable self-catering accommodation, on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

Other Related Links:
Clifton Accommodation
Cape Town Accommodation
Visit the Cape, South Africa

Blue Flag Beaches of the South Coast - KwaZulu Natal

Blue Flag certification started as an environmental and tourism campaign in Europe to assure visitors that certified beaches are clean, safe and environmentally sound. Blue Flag status is only awarded to those beaches that achieve excellence in water quality, environmental education and information, and adhere to international safety standards. High levels of cleanliness, the quality of facilities (toilets and showers) and professional lifeguard services are key criterion of Blue Flag beaches.

The South Coast currently has five Blue Flag beaches: Hibberdene, Lucien, Margate, Ramsgate and Marina Beach. Scottburgh and Uvongo beaches have been awarded pilot Blue Flag status for 2005. The Blue Flag assures you, the visitor, that the beaches are clean, safe and environmentally friendly.The award also helps to educate the community about the need and means of caring for our coastline; to promote one of South Africa’s natural treasures; and to help clean and protect our coastline.

MARGATE BEACH: A mile long beach on the South Coast, ideal for swimming, bodyboarding and surfing. There is also a famous fishing spot off a specially-constructed pier. Margate is a vibrant holiday town with dozens of restaurants, bars and shops, plus accommodation to suit any budget. [Margate Accommodation]
MARINA / SAN LAMEER: A beautiful, long sandy beach with an adjacent tidal pool. The beach is located etween Southbroom and San Lameer and is close to the Trafalgar Marine Reserve and Mpenjati river mouth and lagoon. Lifeguards are always in attendance and facilities are maintained in top class standards throughout the year. Easy access for the disabled. [Southbroom Accommodation]
RAMSGATE BEACH: Ramsgate is a quaint village just south of Margate. A quiet beach with picnic facilities in a park-like setting provides a peaceful haven from the bustling beach towns. An easy walking trail extends southwards from Ramsgate towards the picturesque Southbroom beach and lagoon. [Ramsgate Accommodation]
HIBBERDENE BEACH: Based on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Hibberdene is a relatively narrow beach which is sheltered from the southerly winds. The often steeply sloped beach has good waves. A grassy picnic area makes it ideal for families. A new boat launching site has been developed alongside the Blue Flag area. [Hibberdene Accommodation]
LUCIEN BEACH: Lucien beach, which lies to the north east of Margate main beach, is a quiet but popular beach accessible by a steep set of stairs. Top class lifesaving facilities are in place in a new building which has lots of parking. The elevated parking area provides good views of the sea and coast stretching towards Margate. A good place to park and then walk along the coast towards Uvongo - a pleasant walk with views of dolphins and other sea-life. Easily accessible from the adjacent holiday flats. [Margate Accommodation]

Related Links: South Coast Destinations & Attractions
South Coast Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Hotels
South Africa Hotels