Cape West Coast Beaches

About Cape West Coast Beaches

West Coast accommodation is in hot demand, not because this is the epicentre of glitzy entertainment or bustling city centres, but because it is beautifully tranquil and serene. And, it is the beaches of the Cape West Coast that really make it a magical getaway. Summer tends to be warm and dry, with refreshing winds coming off the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The soft white sands, rocky outcrops, and untouched blue of the waters are simply irresistible.

The Cape West Coast is home to a number of little fishing villages, complete with the homes that date back to the fishing industry of yesteryear. The main settlements along the coast are Yzerfontein, Langebaan, Paternoster, St Helena Bay, and Saldanha Bay. And, being home to such fishing villages, it’s not surprising to know that the beaches along this whole stretch of the South African coast are ideal for fishing.

Saldanha Bay is South Africa’s largest natural bay and is an incredible spot for fishing. Its rocky outcrops and sheltered beaches are perfect for keen fishermen that want to try their hand at catching kob, shad, garrick, stumpnose, sharks and skates.

Langebaan has become known for its excellent kite-surfing conditions, thanks to the calm waters of the lagoon and the consistent winds. But, its beaches are also fantastic for the whole family. Calypso Beach is perfect for swimming, surfing and body surfing. Langebaan Beach is a hub for all things watersports. Jet-skiing, stand-up paddling, swimming and fishing are all on the cards on this scenic beach. The lagoon’s waters are quite a bit warmer than those of the ocean, making it an ideal spot for the whole family, particularly those with little ones that want to play in the shallows.

Surfers will love the beaches of Elands Bay and Paternoster. In Elands Bay, the waves break left and are seldom very crowded, giving locals the perfect opportunity to spend hours pursuing the awesome barrels. Paternoster Beach is also lovely for a cool dip, kayaking (keep an eye out for the curious penguins that may swim around you), stand-up paddling, swimming, or long walks on the warm sands.

Along the shores of Yzerfontein is Pearl Bay Beach; a quiet little beach that is ideal for sailing, skiing, kayaking and fishing. Yzerfontein Main Beach is an incredible 25.7 kilometres (or 16 miles) long and is great for swimming, surfing, and very long walks. There are public ablutions here.

Since the Cape West Coast is, as its name implies, coastal; it is peppered with dozens more beaches. Some are well known and often visited by local families and surfers, while others are quiet little gems that are hidden amongst the spectacular vegetation of this unique part of the world.