Welcome to the breathtaking West Coast of Cape Town, a gem located along the Western Cape of South Africa. Buckle up, beach lovers and nature nuts! The West Coast of Cape Town is calling, promising an epic adventure filled with surf, sun, and tons of fun. This guide is your roadmap to the coolest experiences, whether you’re into hiking trails with killer views, checking out historic sites, Exploring the local wildlife or just lounging by the waves. Let’s hit the beaches, discover hidden spots, and uncover all the awesome things this coastline has in store.
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Book A Private Lagoon Tour In Laangebaan Here! 🌊
The Heritage of The West Coast 🏛
The West Coast is steeped in cultural and historical heritage. Explore the! Khwa ttu Heritage Centre, where the legacy of the San people is preserved through engaging exhibits, storytelling sessions, and immersive experiences that provide insight into the ancient traditions and way of life of these indigenous communities. You can also immerse yourself in the history of the region by visiting the West Coast National Park. Discover the Postberg Flower Reserve, a place rich in biodiversity and cultural significance, where remnants of the area’s Khoisan heritage still echo through the land.
Places to Stay Along The West Coast 🛌🏼
There are many different types of places to stay along the West Coast of Cape Town. everything from beachfront accommodation, farmhouse accommodation, B&B etc. So if you want to see what the West Coast has to offer, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to places to stay, Here are our picks for accommodation on the West Coast.
Langebaan Boutique Hotel & Spa
Experience luxury on the West Coast at the Langebaan Boutique Hotel and Spa. Offering 19 stunning en-suite rooms, some with private entrances and patios, this spot ensures a top-notch stay. From Executive to Luxury rooms, each uniquely styled in a modern, chic fashion, guests are treated to a comfy “home-away-from-home.” Located near breathtaking lagoon views, this hotel creates an elegant yet relaxed vibe. With attention to detail and high-quality decor, expect a cosy and stylish atmosphere.
Dive into relaxation at the spa or take a dip in the refreshing pool. The hotel’s dining events, like Curry Night Thursdays and festive Christmas Lunch Buffets, add fun to your stay. Whether it’s for a family getaway or a romantic escape, this boutique hotel offers the perfect setting for a memorable West Coast experience. Enjoy the warmth, sophistication, and luxury of Langebaan Boutique Hotel – your ultimate coastal retreat.
Address: 2 Turffontein Road, Long Acres Country Estate, Langebaan
Website: https://www.lbhs.co.za/
Contact Number: 087 630 1753
Saldanha Bay Hotel
Experience waterfront bliss at Saldanha Bay Hotel, just 90 minutes from Cape Town on the West Coast. Feel the airy, contemporary vibes in its decor, giving you a spacious and fresh retreat. Indulge in dining at the Mussel Cracker Restaurant, Jacobs Anchorage Bar, or the cosy hotel lounge, all treating you to stunning West Coast sunset views.
This hotel’s five venues accommodate up to 250 people, from conferences to team-building events. No worries about power cuts either the hotel keeps you comfy with a fully-powered generator. Rooms cater to all preferences. Whether it’s the Deluxe Rooms with sea views, Family Rooms for up to four, or Suites with romantic balconies overlooking the sea, your stay promises luxury. Don’t miss the Universal Access Room, ensuring a comfortable stay with pool and bay views for everyone.
Address: 51 Main Rd, Saldanha
Website: https://saldanhabayhotel.co.za/
Contact Number: 022 714 1264
Book A Stay At Saldanha Bay Hotel 🌴
Wamakersvlei Beach Farm
Located in Sandveld’s sandy terrain, Wamakersvlei Beach Farm has a rich history as a former site for ox wagon repairs and a haven for weary travellers. This spot, just a two-hour drive from Cape Town and with its secluded beach experience and relaxed vibes, provides a perfect escape from city life. The farm’s community origins, including fishermen, shepherds, and a blacksmith, contribute to its unique charm. Five beautifully restored self-catering cottages await visitors, boasting complimentary Wi-Fi, solar backup lighting, and three pet-friendly fenced options, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Explore 400 hectares of unspoiled nature by foot or bike, encountering Sandveld‘s wildflowers in spring and a variety of wildlife, from indigenous plants to birds, animals, reptiles, and insects. The Rocher Pan Nature Reserve, bordering the farm’s northern boundary, invites exploration across natural saltpans, dunes, and ‘fynbos,’ leading to charming cottages. For an unforgettable escape, guests are encouraged to book directly and experience the uniqueness of Wamakersvlei Beach Farm, where history, nature, and relaxation converge harmoniously.
Address: Hoef St, Dwarskersbos
Website: https://www.wamakersvlei.co.za/
Contact Number: 083 527 7967
Elands Bay Beach Cottage
Elands Bay, known for its world-class waves, stands as a surfing and windsurfing paradise. Along its expansive, unspoiled beaches, visitors indulge in various activities like swimming, strolls, and marvelling at whales and dolphins, offering relaxation amidst nature’s splendour. Nearby Verlorenvlei invites birdwatchers with its diverse avian inhabitants, boasting over 240 bird species. Explore the striking rock art formations at Baboon Point, a treasure trove of ancient Bushman paintings.
During spring (June-October), the landscape bursts into a kaleidoscope of vibrant flowers, drawing in admirers from near and far. Accommodation features two modern en suite rooms, each accommodating two people with an additional sleeper couch in a shared kitchen/living room, offering sea and mountain vistas just a short walk through indigenous vegetation to the beach. Embrace adventure with a multitude of activities including windsurfing, kite surfing, surfing, birdwatching, hiking, and sandboarding. Language diversity includes English and German, welcoming guests from various backgrounds to this coastal gem.
Address: 10 Kreef St, Elands Bay
Contact Number: 082 935 3351
Kersefontein Guest Farm
Situated on the Cape West Coast, Kersefontein Guest Farm invites guests to indulge in luxury bed and breakfast or self-catering accommodation amidst a heritage-rich backdrop. Steeped in history since Martin Melck’s acquisition in 1770, this family-owned farm spans eight generations, preserving its legacy through the unaltered Cape Dutch homestead and outbuildings, now a designated National Monument. Under current owner Julian Melck’s stewardship, the farm’s rustic buildings have been transformed into lavish rooms and suites, offering guests a taste of opulence within an authentic setting.
Embrace the romance of Kersefontein’s heritage or wander through the expansive farmland and river plains spanning thousands of hectares, inviting exploration and serenity. With a promise of style, comfort, and good vibes, ensuring a memorable stay that encapsulates the essence of this historical gem on the Cape West Coast.
Address: Hopefield, 7355
Website: https://www.kersefontein.co.za/
Contact Number: 083 454 1025
Things to Do Along The West Coast 🌄
The West Coast of Cape Town is a playground waiting to be explored! Dive into the waves for some epic surfing, windsurfing, or kite surfing action. Take a hike through stunning nature reserves, spotting cool plants and critters along the way. Birdwatchers, grab your binoculars! there are tons of feathered friends to spot! And who doesn’t love a walk on the beach? Feel the sand between your toes as you wander along the coast. For a peak at the history, check out the heritage trails, there are stories around every corner. here are our top things to do on the West Coast.
West Coast National Park
The West Coast National Park, located near Saldanha Bay, just 1.5 hours from Cape Town’s City Centre, brings together its picturesque landscapes focused around the pristine Langebaan Lagoon. This sanctuary offers a diverse array of activities, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and nature exploration amidst the captivating backdrop of the lagoons, ivory dunes, fynbos, wetlands, and crashing waves. Accommodation options within the park, including Van Breda Cottage, Stleytler House Cottage, and Jo-annes Beach Cottage, provide a comfortable retreat after a day of adventures.
Embark on an array of activities in the park, from beach access and birding to trails like Eve’s Footprint & Trail, flower season explorations, invigorating hikes, leisurely walks, and thrilling mountain biking trails. Stay updated with recent news, including the kick-off of the flower season, new Park Manager appointments, changes in operations such as the reopening of the Geelbek Restaurant, and any restrictions on recreational fishing seasons for West Coast Rock Lobster, ensuring a memorable and informed visit to this natural paradise.
West Coast National Park Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 7 am to 7 pm
Address: West Coast National Park, West Coast DC
Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/west-coast
Contact Number: 022 772 2144
Book A West Coast National Park Tour Today! 🌱
The West Coast Fossil Park
The West Coast Fossil Park, situated near Langebaan in the Western Cape, South Africa, serves as a treasure trove of ancient history, preserving remarkably well-preserved fossil remains dating back approximately 5 million years. Within this park, visitors encounter fossil discoveries unveiling a bygone world inhabited by extinct creatures like sabre-toothed cats, short-necked giraffes, hunting hyenas, and African bears, providing a window into a distant era.
Recognized globally for its outstanding fossils from the terminal Miocene/early Pliocene era, ongoing research endeavours to unveil the unique narrative behind these fossils, reconstructing an environment teeming with lush forests and open grasslands amidst a subtropical climate 5 million years ago. Adding to the experience, a newly constructed Visitor Centre, sponsored by the National Lotteries Commission, features an exhibition hall, restaurant, shop, amphitheatre, and conference/meeting facilities, inviting visitors to delve deeper into this fascinating prehistoric world. As a National Heritage Site and a significant part of the Cradle of Human Culture Artist’s Route, the West Coast Fossil Park stands as a testament to the region’s rich natural heritage.
West Coast Fossil Park Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9 am to 3 pm
Address: Old Chemfos Mine between R27 and, R45, Langebaanweg
Website: https://fossilpark.org.za/
Contact Number: 022 766 1606
Lambert’s Bay Bird Island Nature Reserve
Lambert’s Bay Bird Island Nature Reserve, situated a mere 100 meters off Lambert’s Bay, offers an intimate encounter with the mesmerizing blue-eyed Cape gannets. It stands as one of only six global breeding sites for these magnificent birds and is the sole accessible breeding site open to the public. This sanctuary invites visitors to partake in birdwatching, explore a walkthrough museum, and delight in whale watching. The island acts as a crucial breeding and roosting site for seabirds, notably Cape gannets and cormorants, while Cape fur seals often lounge on its rocky outcrops.
Experience close-up views of the birds from the gannet lookout and a bird hide equipped with informative signage about seabirds. While caution is advised during rough seas, this haven promises an immersive encounter with nature. Accessing Lambert’s Bay Bird Island involves taking the N7 towards Clanwilliam, then the R364 Graafwater/Lambert’s Bay road. With entrance fees of R40 for adults and R20 for children, the island spans about three hectares and houses a walkthrough museum showcasing sea mammals and bird skeletons. This reserve offers a precious glimpse into the lives of Cape gannets and other seabirds, providing an extraordinary opportunity for observation and filming.
Lambert’s Bay Bird Island Nature Reserve Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 7:30 am to 6 pm
Address: Lambert’s Bay Bird Island Nature Reserve, Lambert’s Bay
Website: https://www.capenature.co.za/reserves/lamberts-bay-bird-island-nature-reserve
Contact Number: 071 657 5651
Beaches on The West Coast of Cape Town
The Cape West Coast unfolds a tapestry of pristine beaches offering a spectrum of activities catering to diverse preferences. From exhilarating water sports, serene fishing spots, and invigorating hikes to tranquil relaxation, these shores promise something for everyone. Each beach paints a unique picture: family-friendly spots like Big Bay, chilled escapes at Melkbos Beach, and secluded sanctuaries like Kraalbaai, accommodating various tastes and needs.
Envision panoramic vistas featuring iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, and Robben Island, and breathtaking sunsets adorning several beachfronts, setting the scene for unparalleled beauty. Embrace a plethora of activities spanning surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, bird watching, and leisurely picnics, inviting exploration and enjoyment along the coastline. Ensuring safety, some beaches offer protective measures like lifeguards, designated swimming areas, and facilities including playgrounds and ablution facilities, enhancing the experience while fostering a secure environment for beachgoers to relish their coastal adventures.
Hiking Trails on The West Coast of Cape Town 🚶
The Cape West Coast is a treasure trove of diverse heritage and nature trails, blending cultural richness and natural wonders for an unforgettable adventure. Take a stroll through history with the Mamre Heritage Walk, where local guides share captivating stories amidst historic buildings. For a coastal hike filled with history and breathtaking views, the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve Trail is a must. Venture into nature with the West Coast National Park’s Eve’s Trail, winding through unique vegetation and serene beaches. The Darling Stagger mixes hiking and cycling, offering a taste of local food, wine, and cultural tales. Families can enjoy the treasure-hunting fun of the Darling Mystery Trail in the historic village.
Discover hidden coastal towns and diverse landscapes along the Crayfish Trail. Explore birdlife and wildflowers in Yzerfontein’s Grotto Bay Trail or meander through fynbos along the Langrietvlei and Helderwater Trails near Hopefield. Enjoy scenic views and wildlife sightings on the beginner-friendly Bakoor Trail in Langebaan, or hike the rugged Tietiesbaai Lighthouse Trail near Paternoster. Wrap up your adventure at Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort in Citrusdal, where stunning hiking trails offer sweeping vistas of the majestic Cederberg Mountains.
Looking For Something More Relaxed? Go On A Private Wildflower West Coast Tour 🌼
Restaurants to Visit Along The West Coast 🍴
The dining scene along the West Coast of Cape Town is an adventure for your taste buds! Picture yourself enjoying the freshest seafood at beachside spots or discovering cosy cafes located in quaint towns. From laid-back beach shacks dishing out local favourites like fish and chips to fancy restaurants with ocean views, there’s something for every mood. How about enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunset? It’s all on the menu! Whether you’re craving a seafood feast or just a quick bite, the West Coast’s Restaurants offer a mix of flavours and vibes that will make your dining experiences as memorable as the stunning views.
Die Gaaitjie Restaurant Paternoster
Gaaitjie Restaurant, steeped in history, stands as a relic of Paternoster’s past, believed to have originated around 1855 as a residence for a local family. Situated along the Paternoster beachfront, this Cape Heritage building rests on sturdy stone foundations and remains an enduring symbol of the area’s fisheries. Formerly the domain of the Kruger family since 2015, Gaaitjie underwent a transformation when Chantelle Kruger, on holiday in Paternoster, stumbled upon the opportunity. Despite lacking formal restaurant experience, Valmé Olivier took charge of operations, curating an exceptional wine list and enhancing her wine knowledge through specialized courses.
Theuns and Wilma Kruger, providing unwavering support, contribute their financial expertise to the restaurant. Gaaitjie Unplugged, managed by the Krugers, offers delectable small-plate meals on specific days right on the beach. While Jaco Kruger, the former head chef, departed for Ireland in 2020, Maryka Williams and Luvalain Losper now helm the kitchen, showcasing their culinary prowess with locally sourced seafood. Led by Belinda Visser, the Front of House team ensures a memorable dining journey for every guest, adding to Gaaitjie’s legacy of excellent service and delicious food.
Die Gaaitjie Opening Hours: Lunch Thursday to Monday 12 pm to 2 pm and Dinner 6 pm to 8 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 12 pm to 4 pm
Website: https://gaaitjie.co.za/
Address: On the beach, Down, Sampson St, Kliprug, Paternoster
Contact Number: 022 752 2242
Leeto
Leeto Restaurant, under the culinary mastery of acclaimed Chef Garth Almazan, epitomizes refined West Coast cuisine with a focus on local and organic ingredients. The name “Leeto,” translating to “journey” in the Khoi San language, signifies Chef Garth’s personal and culinary odyssey, as well as honouring the coastal heritage of the Khoi. Drawing from his Cape Town roots and family’s fishing legacy, Chef Garth finds inspiration in childhood memories of seafood cooked by his Filipino grandmother. Having previously helmed Catharina’s at Steenberg wine estate, Garth now resides in Paternoster, influenced by the ocean’s serene rhythm, shaping Leeto’s culinary identity.
Set against an idyllic ocean backdrop, Leeto harmonizes its prime location with Garth’s cuisine, presenting organic-inspired lunches and dinners showcasing the West Coast’s finest. The restaurant’s ethos emphasizes authenticity, utilizing local, seasonal ingredients to craft oceanic delights with simplicity, local flair, and a dash of sophistication. Please note, that Leeto Restaurant maintains an ambience conducive to adults, not accommodating pets or children under 12.
Leeto Opening Hours: Lunch Monday to Sunday 12 pm to 2 pm and Dinner Monday to Sunday 6 pm to 9 pm
Address: Patterson Slot, Paternoster
Website: https://www.leetorestaurant.com/
Contact Number: 060 927 0403
Cathy’s Kitchen Paternoster
Cathy’s Kitchen Paternoster holds the esteemed #2 rank among cafes in Paternoster, South Africa, celebrated for its diverse menu offerings. Delighting patrons with a tempting array of dishes such as boboties, chicken wraps, salmon, cheesecakes, pancakes, and croissants, this cafe caters to various palates. The cafe’s accolades stem from its inviting atmosphere, amicable staff, and delectable yet affordable meals, garnering a remarkable Google rating of 4.8. Visitors heap praises on the exceptional service, food quality, and cosy ambience, with enthusiastic recommendations to others, highlighting the restaurant’s vibrant vibes.
Cathy’s Kitchen Paternoster offers outdoor seating, Wi-Fi, wheelchair accessibility, and parking. Although there’s no delivery service, the cafe extends takeaway options. Accepting credit cards, the restaurant maintains a price range of ZAR 190 to ZAR 460 per person, ensuring a delightful dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike.
Cathy’s Kitchen Paternoster Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday 8:30 am to 1 pm, Thursday to Sunday 8:30 am to 1 pm and Friday 5 pm to 8 pm
Address: 1 Seeduiker St, Voorstrand, Paternoster
Contact Number: 066 253 4881
Charlie’s Brewhouse
Charlie’s Brewhouse, envisioned by UK entrepreneur Russell Foster, blossomed as a family-friendly haven following the triumph of Russell’s on the Port restaurant. With a passion for hospitality, Thys Stander, the Hospitality Manager, and Leandra Nero, the Events Manager, curate exceptional experiences, ensuring each visit is unforgettable. The establishment offers a rustic interior or an outdoor patio boasting stunning marina views, catering to 160 patrons. Ideal for private gatherings or corporate functions, it caters to sports enthusiasts with big-screen TVs, enhancing the vibrant ambience.
Head Chef Lovemore crafts a tantalizing fusion of British pub fare and West Coast flavours, offering a diverse menu encompassing delectable starters, hearty mains, indulgent desserts, and a dedicated kids’ menu. Promising an exciting journey ahead, Charlie’s Brewhouse boasts its micro-brewery creating craft beer variants and recently unveiled Poetic Licence, a gin distillery. With an eye toward innovation, the future shines brightly for this establishment, offering patrons an evolving and flavoursome experience.
Charlie’s Brewhouse Opening Hours: Breakfast Monday to Sunday 8 am to 11 am and Lunch/Dinner Monday to Sunday 12 pm to 10 pm
Address: 1 Marina Centre, Port Owen Dr, Port Owen, Velddrif
Website: http://www.charliesbrew.co.za/
Contact Number: 022 783 0448
Wit Mossel Pot
Situated along the West Coast Way Wild Route, The Wit Mossel Pot exudes a free-spirited and eclectic vibe, adorned with creatively recycled, brightly coloured, and mismatched furniture, creating a bohemian and laid-back ambience. Embracing a relaxed atmosphere, this spot captivates visitors with surf-themed decor, offering surfboards, clothing, and metal cut-out kombis available for purchase, adding to the unique experience. The menu champions unpretentious yet flavoursome seafood delights, featuring mussel soup, seafood platters, calamari, hake, and chips, among other delectable offerings.
Adding to its charm, the establishment exudes a down-to-earth vibe, occasionally hosting live music events while providing a beachside seating area for guests to soak in the coastal views. Fully licensed, The Wit Mossel Pot delights patrons with its signature Bloody Mary, an ideal companion for breakfast or any time of the day, ensuring a refreshing and flavoursome visit within its creatively adorned, chilled-out setting.
Address: Hunter St, Elands Bay
Contact Number: 082 496 8931
🚘 Need A Car To Tour The West Coast? 🚗
As our guide to the West Coast of Cape Town draws to a close, we hope it has ignited your wanderlust and curiosity. Whether you’ve been looking to catch some waves, explore hidden trails, or simply soak up the seaside vibes, this coastline will leave you with awesome memories and experiences. the West Coast truly has it all. So if you’re planning a visit to Cape Town be sure to check out this stretch of coastline.
