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Struisbaai · Cape Agulhas
There is plenty to do and see in the Cape Agulhas region, as well as in Struisbaai itself. Various towns, all within a short driving range of Cape Creek Cottage, each offer their own range of attractions and restaurants. Read about the attractions of these towns below, or navigate to our pages that specifically cover restaurants in Struisbaai and surrounds, things to do in Cape Agulhas, and the location of Cape Creek Cottage.
TOWNS IN CAPE AGULHAS
Activities and Attractions of the Towns on the Agulhas Coast
Cape Agulhas has a rich history, being home to many fishing villages of the past hundreds of years and telling the stories of the many ships that wrecked on the coastline. The area is rich in habitats full of wildlife and indigenous plants, including the well-known fynbos. Both whale watching and bird watching are popular activities in the region, thanks to these rich habitats and largely uninterrupted landscape. Read about the attractions of the various towns near Struisbaai and the unique sites to visit at each location.
Struisbaai
0 minutes' drive
Struisbaai is known for its pretty fishing harbour, historical fishing cottages with their thatched roofs, and its long, uninterrupted stretch of beach. Visitors find the main beach perfect for swimming, and you’ll find the beach brimming with locals and holiday makers enjoying the sun and ocean during the South Africa summer school holidays. Kite surfers and surfers also frequent the main beach, which is known for optimal kite-surfing winds. Near the Struisbaai Promenade, there is an open, grassy field, used by kite surfers to rig. Further up the coast, in the direction of Arniston, a section of secluded beach is referred to as Langezandt beach. This area is a short stroll from Cape Creek Cottage, and preferred by the residents of Langezant, both for its proximity and its relative calmness away from the business of the main beach. Shore anglers frequent this area of Struisbaai’s beach. Die Plaat is another section of beach, which stetches from Struisbaai all the way to the town of Arniston. You can reach the area on foot from Langezandt, by walking along the coast. Alternatively, you can drive to the beach at Die Plaat by taking the R319 in the direction of Bredasdorp and turning right at Earth Resort to reach Die Plaat in a short 8-minute drive. Here you will find a stunning, uninterrupted beach, great for log walks and safe swimming and also popular among fishermen. Struisbaai is also very popular for land-based whale watching and hiking. Visit the Tip of Africa Information Centre, based at the Caltex on Main Road, for more information on the array of activities in the area. Add beach horse rides, hiking, boat trips, and surfing lessons to your to-do list, and don’t forget to stop by Thapelo Arts on the Main Road for some unique hand-made artworks.
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The harbour is a popular attraction for visitors, and you're sure to find a couple of people fishing from the harbour wall – locals and visitors alike. Here, traditional fishermen bring in their daily catches and fresh fish can be purchased. The ideal times for fishing at the harbour are at high tide and at night, with the major fish species to target being Shad, Kob, and Spotted Grunter. The harbour is also home to Parrie, a particularly friendly stingray who has been visiting the harbour for around 30 years. Parrie is the largest of the stingrays who frequent the harbour and can be found here in the shallow waters where you can feed pilchards to him and his friends. Capture some stunning photos of the stingrays, with the colourful fishermen’s boats as backdrop. Catch Cook, a popular restaurant is situated at the harbour, serving a range of delicious seafood dishes, cooked from freshly caught fish, as well as sushi, pizzas, and burgers. Relax at their outdoor beach bar with a view of the harbour and ocean while you enjoy an ice-cold beer or cocktail. Earth Resort is another lovely restaurant, situated at the edge of Struisbaai. They offer a children's paradise featuring a big green playground and a touch farm complete with donkeys, small horses, geese, and goats. The restaurant is open from 8am and also features a shop where you can browse home décor items and local wines.
L'Agulhas
10 minutes' drive
L'Agulhas is the most southern coastal village in South Africa, located within the stunning Cape Agulhas region. The town is home to the Southernmost Tip of Africa, marked by a stone monument on the coast just outside of town. L’Agulhas is a short 10-minute drive from Struisbaai and offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions. Like Struisbaai, L’Agulhas offers prime fishing spots and a beach that is great for swimming, including the L’Agulhas Tidal Pool. Some of the well-known attractions near the town include the L’Agulhas Lighthouse Museum, the Southernmost Tip at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and the nearby Map of Africa, a shipwreck that is visible above the ocean, and various hiking trails through the breathtaking landscape and limestone fynbos that grows here. The area is popular for birdwatching, being home to various species of rare birds, and its wildlife, which can be appreciated on a visit to the Agulhas National Park. The small and tranquil town has a variety of seafood restaurants and quaint shops, attracting many visitors looking for a relaxing getaway.
Bredasdorp
20 minutes' drive
Bredasdorp is a bustling town, commonly referred to as the economic hub of the Cape Aguhas region thanks to its thriving farming community and the many large shops and restaurants in the town. The town is home to the Shipwreck Museum, showcasing a range of original artefacts of the many vessels that wrecked on the Agulhas coast. Visitors can explore many art galleries and craft shops, and enjoy delicious meals at any of the many restaurants, such as Adrian’s Bistro, The Black Pearl Seafood Bistro, Bredasdorp Square, and Flames Grill & Pub. The nearby Heuningberg Nature Reserve offers a beautiful landscape, covered by various species of plants and flowers, including the Bredasdorp Lily which is only found in the reserve. The reserve is also very popular among birdwatchers. Other activities include a visit to PE Le Roux Memorial Garden and browsing the beautiful handmade candles and ceramics at Kapula Candles.
Elim
35 minutes' drive
This small village is rich in history and situated in The Nuwejaars Wetlands area. The entire village of lime washed cottages with thatched roofs is a national heritage site and is home to a Moravian church and the Elim Heritage Centre. The Heritage Centre and Museum houses hand-crafted artifacts and photographs that tell the stories of the freed slaves that sought refuge in Elim. The Elim water mill features the largest wooden waterwheel in South Africa (declared a national monument in 1974), while the church features the oldest working clock in the country. While visiting the church, stop to appreciate the monument commemorating the emancipation of slaves in 1834 - the only one of its kind in South Africa- located opposite the church. The Old Mill Tearoom, located at the watermill, serves delicious milktart – a South African favourite. The Nuwejaars Wetlands Special Management Area (SMA) surrounding Elim is home to various indigenous animals and plants, including the Bontebok, Cape Grysbok, and many bird species. Nearby, you'll find various wine farms, including Zoetendal Vineyards, Black Oystercatcher, and Strandveld Vineyards.
Napier
35 minutes' drive
Napier is a small town, home to a beautiful Dutch Reformed church. The town features an array of antique stores, gift shops, and farm stalls. The Napier Farm Stall boasts a peaceful country setting and a vine-covered veranda where visitors can relax and enjoy a wholesome meal or a slice of cake. They offer a selection of farm-fresh goodies, including homemade tarts, rusks, jams, and truffle oil. Moerse Farmstall serves fresh pies, home-made bread, and great coffee, in addition to the various snacks offered by their shop, such as preserves, rusks, and gifts. They also have a restaurant, and the Tip of Africa Nursery is right next door. Beer produced by the local Napier Brewery is available at The Fox Restaurant & Pub and the Sun Touched Inn, both of which are located on the town’s main road. While visiting, dine at the popular Pascal’s, founded by the renowned French cabaret singer, Daniele Pascal. This restaurant offers al fresco dining on the garden terrace during the summer, and cosy log fires and gourmet comfort food during colder months. During the winter, from late July to early September, you can see the beautiful yellow fields of canola in bloom. Other attractions in the area include the hand-painted candles and ceramics at the Nobunto Factory, artworks by local artists at the Riek Creative Art Gallery, the Napier Sundial, and the Ox Wagon monument (Kakebeenwa) at the edge of town.
Arniston
35 minutes' drive
Another one of the quaint villages in the region, Arniston, is famous for its history as a fishermen’s village, its untouched natural landscapes, and the nearby Waenhuiskrans cave. The town’s name, Arniston, came from the ship of the same name that wrecked on the coast near Waenhuiskrans in the early 1800s. Over 370 people lost their lives in the infamous shipwreck, with only 6 passengers surviving. A memorial to the lives lost is this wreck stands near the Arniston Hotel, overlooking the ocean. The Hotel has a restaurant, The Bistro, serving lovely seafood dishes that diners can enjoy while taking in breathtaking views of the coast. The town was originally called Waenhuiskarns, after the nearby Waenhuiskrans Cave, before being renamed to Arniston. The Waenhuiskrans Cave can only be accessed during low tide, as the sea rises to fill the cave at high tide. To get there, go to Roman Beach and take a 1.5 km walk, following the signs that point to “Grot”. Roman Beach itself is popular as a swimming beach. The coastline along this area offers stunning beaches and many caverns, including the Waenhuiskrans Cave which has become a popular tourist attraction. Along the beach, you’ll also find the remnants of prehistoric fish traps – stone dams built by the Khoisan to trap fish for catching. The fishing village of Kassiesbaai, near the Arniston harbour, is a recognised National Heritage Site featuring quaint fishermen’s cottages. One of these cottages is a small restaurant called Willene’s. The restaurant serves delicious fish and chips and there is also a small shop. Visitors can observe local fishermen as they embark on their boats for a day's work on the sea, and photography enthusiasts will relish in the opportunity to capture stunning shots of the historic architecture, coastline, and bustling fishing industry. Arniston is flanked by two nature reserves, the De Hoop Nature Reserve and the De Mond Nature Reserve, home to various species of fish and birds. The area offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, and whales are known to be visible from the shore during the latter part of the year.
Pearly Beach
1 hour's drive
Pearly Beach Village is a rural haven, surrounded by stunning landscape with abundant fynbos and wildlife. While the town itself is quite small, the natural environment offers plenty to see and do, especially for nature enthusiasts. The period between June and November offers an awe-inspiring spectacle as Southern Right Whales can frequently be spotted along the shoreline. During low tide, the beach's rocky pools are home to an array of fascinating sea life waiting to be explored, and the rocky outcrops present ideal spots for anglers to cast their lines. In addition, a nearby offshore reef presents an opportunity for scuba diving enthusiasts. Castle Beach is a great swimming location, and the beach is well-equipped for visitors with ablution facilities and showers located at the primary parking area. A wooden walkway leads directly from the parking lot to the seemingly endless beach. Dyer Island, the habitat of a colony of African Penguins, is about 5 kilometers of the coast of Pearly Beach. Right next to the island, is Geyser Rock, home to thousands of Cape fur seals. Naturally, Great White Sharks are attracted to the abundance of seals and penguins, and the area has become quite popular for activities like shark cage diving and boat tours. If you’re looking for a drink and a meal, stop by Die Rooibier, a popular pub and restaurant located in Pearly Beach. This pub offers an opportunity to experience the local community and indulge in a fun-filled atmosphere. The pub is renowned for its delectable spareribs and fresh seafood options, and live music is occasionally featured on weekends.
Franskraal
1 hour's drive
Franskraal is a quiet seaside village offering outdoors excursions to the countryside and ocean, and pristine beaches. The town has a supermarket, restaurant, and a thriving bowling club. Visitors can expect excellent fishing spots as well as stunning opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling. Franskraal Beach offers safe swimming, rock pools brimming with marine life, a long stretch of beach that is great for long walks along the coast. The beach is also a birding hotspot. Other great spots for swimming are the nearby Kleinbaai Tidal Pool and Blousloep Beach. Shark cage diving is a popular activity around here, as well as in the nearby towns of Gansbaai and Pearly Beach. There are multiple hiking trails in the area, including the Groeneweide Hiking Trail and Rooikransies Franskraal. In addition to its 5km hiking trail, Groeneweide Farm also has a charming farm restaurant, a nursery specialising in coastal plants, and a large outdoor play area for kids. To gain insight into the history of Franskraal, visit The Strandveld Museum. This museum features the largest collection of relics from the Birkenhead shipwreck and many photographs showcasing the history of the surrounding towns.
Franskraal Beach
Kleinbaai Tidal Pool
Blousloep Beach
Groeneweide Hiking Trail
Rooikransies Franskraal
Groeneweide Farm
Strandveld Museum
Gansbaai
1 hour 10 mins' drive
The area surrounding Gansbaai is home to forests, an array of wildlife species, and (of course) the famous Great White Shark. As one of the larger towns in the area, Gansbaai features many popular restaurants and coffee shops. Coffee aficionados will enjoy a visit to Tuscany, renowned for their 25 different coffee varieties and freshly baked pastries. Janna's Pancake House serves delightful pancakes, waffles, and vetkoek. Thyme at Rosemary offers a selection of fresh seafood and traditional South African dishes, which guests can enjoy in the historical ambiance of their décor, or outside under towering fig trees. Visit Lomond Wine Estate to enjoy locally produced wines from their tasting room which overlooks the Lomond Dam and the farm. Visitors will be in awe of the breathtaking views of the vineyards and surrounding valley, and you’ll want to stick around for an antipasto platter to enjoy with your wine.
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Explore the endless coastline that stretches from De Kelders to the white sandy beaches at Die Plaat and all the way to Hermanus. The Perlemoenbaai suburb is wedged between Stanford’s Bay and Gansbaai, including a beautiful stretch of coastline with a well-maintained tidal pool and a hiking trail. The trail leads from Gansbaai to Stanford’s Bay and then further on to the Walker Bay Nature Reserve. Stanford's Cove beach offers a great swimming spot and features rock pools that are deep enough for small kids to use as paddle pools, though shallow enough to observe the stunning marine life. As you make your way further up the coast, you’ll also find the De Kelders Drip Caves, among the oldest caves in Africa. The sheltered cove at De Kelders is perfect for swimming. Nearby, the Klipgat Caves is situated near the entrance to the Walker Bay Nature Reserve. The cave is accessible to the public and many information boards along the way tell the history of the people who found shelter in the caves thousands of years ago. Visitors frequent the cave to capture stunning photos and stand in awe of the magnificent views. If you travel even further, you’ll find Klipgat se Plaat Beach and Die Plaat along the coast in the direction of Hermanus. Continuing along the coast, you’ll eventually reach Sopiesklip. The coastline offers plenty of opportunity for stunning walks, swimming, and exploring the various caves.
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The Danger Point Lighthouse is located on the tip of Gansbaai that reaches to the ocean. It’s a must-visit location to show the kids what a lighthouse looks like inside. There are a couple of footpaths around the area and knowledgable guides are present during open times to explain the inner workings of the lighthouse and give you some pointers on where to snap the best photos of the waves breaking. The nearby islands are home to seals and penguins, while the ocean provides a home to various species of fish, migrating Southern Right Whales, dolphins, and sharks, to name but a few. The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary is a marine bird rehabilitation centre with a focus on the endangered African penguin. The sanctuary, located in the Kleinbaai district of Gansbaai, is open every day from 9am and visitors are welcome to view the daily feeding at 3pm. Entrance to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary is free, but donations are welcome. The centre’s auditorium provides live viewings of what is happening in the rehabilitation area, on a large TV.
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Marine Dynamics Shark Tours provides shark cage diving adventures, where you can visit Great White Sharks in their natural habitat. Take a trip on the ocean to see magnificent creatures from the boat and kit up in a wetsuit for shark cage diving. Other sea animals, such as copper sharks, stingrays, dolphins, seals, and penguins often make guest appearances, and the marine biologist on board will tell you all about the stunning ocean wildlife. There are other shark cage diving operators as well, including Born In Africa Tours and SharkDiving.co. Dryer Island Tours offers a range of whale watching, birding, and boat trips. For outdoor adventurists looking for land-based activities, a large selection of guided and unguided walking and hiking trails are available in the area. Contact African Sun Road to book a tailored hike or beach walk. Guided 4x4 trails run through the Uilenkraalmond and Walker Bay reserves. Overlandy Adventure Tours offers a 4x4 tour through Walker Bay Nature Reserve, starting at the reserve’s entrance and touring some of the interesting landmarks, such as the Klipgat Caves. The tour runs over beach roads and dunes, and through the Strandveld Fynbos, before arriving at a secret beach where you can enjoy sundowners. Lastly, stop by the Gansbaai Tourism Office, located on Main Street, for more information on the various activities in the area, including horse riding, kayaking, 4x4 trails, and guided nature walks.