Cape Town offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, with sunny white beaches stretching east to west. It’s no surprise that many of South Africa’s beaches have been awarded the blue flag status, given only to the most perfect beaches of the world. Part of the allure of this area is that this is where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. The Atlantic lies on the west side and is about 4 degrees cooler. Many of the most popular beaches lie on this side of the coast, with many referring to it as South Africa’s “Riviera”. These beaches are lucky to have longer days and protection for the Cape winds, making them a very pleasant experience indeed.
One of the most notable is Clifton which is comprised of 4 beaches all together, it is no doubt one of the most fashionable beaches. The wealthy all aspire to own homes fronting its snow white sands and people fly from all over to see and be seen against the backdrop of the bright blue water, decorated with gleaming white yachts.
The East coast however has the warmer water with many hidden and secluded gems, which tourists travel from far and wide to experience. These are also preferred by local families wanting to steer clear of the crowds along the west coast. Each beach has its own particular charm however, so it’s always best to go to a few and decide which is most suited to your tastes.
If you are thinking about visiting this side of the world you are sure to be left with more than just a glowing tan, but fond memories of this captivating region and the hospitable people which reside in it. There is a wide array of accommodation options you can take advantage of such as Self Catering Accommodation & Holiday Rentals or hotels. There is plenty to choose from and they line the coast, offering a wonderful way to experience the sun and surf offered by Cape Town, South Africa.
There is a small coastal town just off the N2, in the area of the Western Cape known as the garden route that hosts an annual whaling spectacular the likes of which can’t be witnessed anywhere else in the world. At the right time of year in this small sleepy town, called Witsand, accommodation is inundated with Whale enthusiasts.
The whales that congregate in this area for calving purposes every year are considered to be the least understood of all the species, they have inhabited the southern oceans for over 60 million years and are said to have the most highly evolved brain of all mammalian species. Every year from June to late November they move from the Southern Atlantic Ocean to the coastal regions off South Africa, Australia and South America. The region along the southern coast has some of the best viewing of these gentle giants and by all accounts the best of these is Witsand. Accommodation in this normally sleepy town can become hard to find at this time of year due to the popularity of watching the new mothers with their calves.
In 2005 a survey counted 130 whales and 51 calves a massive number considering that they have been a protected species for barely 40 years. The region along this particular stretch of coast is sparsely populated and other than in the town of Witsand, accommodation can be hard to find so booking in advance is important if you wish to witness this spectacle of life.
The calving is a natural complement to an area that is already full of beauty. Witsand means White Sand which is simply a reference to the brilliantly white sandy beach that hems in the town. This eye catching phenomenon is caused by an underground water supply that leeches the red iron oxide out of the sand leaving it bleached white. What makes this even more striking is the fact that the town sits on the mouth of the Breede River whose muddy brown water spills onto the dazzling white beaches of Witsand. Accommodation can be found all the way up the BreedeRiver and the historical Pont can be found near Malgas. This historical river crossing is still in use today. The roads in this area, however, are not well maintained and getting around can take time and could require a 4x4.
If you are after coastal activities it would be most practical to find Witsand accommodation, the river estuary formed by the river mouth provides a safe location for a range of activities, including windsurfing, swimming, paddle-skiing and fishing. These waters provide some of the best fishing in South Africa, the most common catch been the Spotted Grunter. Garrick, Shad and Steenbras are also commonly caught. Most Witsand accommodation owners are happy to provide you with information about the best fishing spots or even offer a charter service.
Perhaps the strangest thing you could experience at Witsand is what the locals call Brulsand which, in English means Roaring Sands, when the wind blows just right and the dunes start to move they release an eerie low rumbling noise. Finding Witsand accommodation is finding a place to share in natures wonders.
The Peninsula Coastline offers prime sea kayaking opportunities on both the False Bay & Atlantic sides. The precipitous mountains which rise up from sea level, the expanses of white beaches and secluded rocky coves make this one of the world's premier sea kayaking spots. Interest in this activity has increased exponentially and one regularily spots motorists with kayak on the roof heading to the nearest coastline or beach for a "paddle"
Organised trips include Boulders Beach (Penguin Colony), Hout Bay to Seal Island, Simonstown Quayside & Bay where you may have a close up encounter with a 40 ton Southern Right Whale or further afield at Cape Point or Hermanus.
Whatever your choice be prepared for an unforgettable experience..........and don't forget the camera & of course sun tan lotion!
Source: Sea Kayaking Cape Town | Noordhoek Hotel
Cape Town is well know for it’s wine and wine estates but the wine industry can be confusing for a visitor. Wine lover or not, a visit to the Cape Winelands is an absolute must as the region has beautiful vistas against majestic mountain backdrops, rolling vineyards and quaint Cape Dutch homesteads coupled with award-winning wines.
The winelands are divided into various different region, each offering their own ”wine route”. The most popular and well know are Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Constantia, Paarl and Wellington. The estates in Franschhoek, Paarl and Stellenbosch can be reached via a scenic coastal route, which takes approximately 45 minutes by car from Afton Grove. Your hosts will assist with planning a wine route to suit your individual taste over a wholesome farm breakfast.
Constantia Vineyards:
The oldest of all Cape wine estates are situated in the beautiful Constantia Valley, some 15 minutes drive from Afton Grove. Early Cape Dutch architecture from the era of the VOC is very much in evidence with mature oak trees & sweeping views completing the scene. Many offer fine restaurants as well as wine tasting in a setting which is breathtakingly beautiful with the backdrop of the Contantiaberg on one side & sweeping views across False Bay in the other.
Constantia Valley Wine Farms:
Groot Constantia
Klein Constantia
Buitenverwachting
Constantia Uitsig
Steenberg
Cape Town Wine Routes:
1. Paarl Wine Route
2. Franschoek Wine Route
3. Stellenbosch Wine Route
4. Durbanville Wine Route
GROOT CONSTANTIA - Less than 20 minutes drive
Tel. 021 794 5128 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 794 5128 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Situated in the Constantia Valley off the M41. This is the oldest wine estate in the country & this is where the roots of the South African wine industry lie. Developed by Simon van der Stel in 1685. Wine tasting, cellar tours, Manor house museum, Cloete cellar museum, restaurants & fine examples of early Cape architecture. Open 7 days a week. Cellar tours every hour on the hour.
KLEIN CONSTANTIA - Less than 20 minutes drive.
Tel 021 794 5188 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 794 5188 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Against the slopes of the Constantia mountain lies this well maintained private estate which has been described as one of the worlds most beautiful vineyard locations. Part of the original land grant made to Simon van der Stel in 1685. Produces a range of wines of which their vin de Constance is world renown. Open Mon. - Sat. for wine tasting.
BUITENVERWACHTING - Less than 20 minutes drive
Tel 021 794 5190 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 794 5190 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Situated in the Constantia valley. Another portion of the original estate owned by van der Stel. The farm has been lovingly restored and in 1985 produced a maiden harvest of 98 tons, the first in 30 years which lived up to the name "Buitenverwachting" - beyond expectation. Wine tasting 7 days a week. The restaurant at this estate is rated among the top 10 in the country.
CONSTANTIA UITSIG - Less than 15 minutes drive
Tel. 021 794 1810 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 794 1810 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Situated adjacent to Buitenverwachting this private estate was the first to begin with the export of table grapes from the region. In 1988 the farm was aquired by the current owners & has been developed to a fine country estate with hotel, 3 restaurants, a specialist wine sales & tasting as well as one of only 2 private cricket ovals in the country. La Colombe restaurant is currently rated as one of the top 5 restaurants in the country. Open Mon - Fri.
STEENBERG - Less than 15 minutes drive.
Tel. 021 713 2211 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 713 2211 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
This was the first land grant made in the Constantia valley in 1682. Today, some 300 years later, the original "werf" has been restored to its former glory and the estate boasts a magnificent golf course as well as some of the finest wines in this valley. A restaurant & wine tasting compliment this old charmer. Open Mon - Fri.
1. PAARL WINE ROUTE
Paarl Tourism Bureau at: 021 872-3829 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 872-3829 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
The Paarl Wine Route is renowned for it's exquisite red wines, which is why it's also known as the "Red Route". They have established themselves on the world wine map with their range of internationally acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, port and Shiraz wines.
2. FRANSCHOEK WINE ROUTE
Franschhoek Valley Tourism at: 021 876 3603 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 876 3603 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Franschhoek is regarded by many wine critics as one of the premier destinations in the winemaking world. This should come as no surprise, as this land was first used for wine production some 300 years ago by the French Huguenots. The Franschoek Wine Route is home to twenty-one wine farms, including some of South Africa's most respected names.
3. STELLENBOSCH WINE ROUTE
Stellenbosch Tourism and Information Bureau: 021 883 3584 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 021 883 3584 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
The Stellenbosch Wine Route is justifiably known as one of the finest that South Africa has to offer. The region’s climate and fertile soils combined with careful selection of the correct grape varieties have produced a winemaking industry that has survived and indeed thrived for over 300 years. The Stellenbosch Wine Region is today synonymous with award winning wines. For more information call the
Cape Town beaches are arguably the most spectacular beaches in the world. From small, intimate rock pools to long expanses of white sand and crashing waves, Cape Town has a beach to suit everyone from sunbathers to surfers. Afton Grove is ideally located for those wishing to explore this collection of beautiful white sandy beaches and rocky coves of both the cold Atlantic as well as the popular swimming beaches on the warmer False Bay coastline.
The desire for white sand and blue ocean water, lying on a beach with golden sunshine warming your body, eyes closed, thoughts drifting to the sound of seagulls and the caress of waves is the idyllic dream of many a holiday maker. Finding a beach is not normally something most vacationers find difficult, but finding the right beach for your needs is sometimes trickier, so here are some tips for your beach holiday from Afton Grove.
For long invigorating walks:
Noordhoek or Muizenberg beaches are the first choice. Noordhoek Beach, is only a five minute drive from Afton Grove country Retreat and has 8 km of unspoilt pristine white sand and is also the resting place of the steamer the Kakapo that ran aground in 1900.
Family beaches with a child friendly environment, include:
Muizenberg for family friendly surfing and fun extras like a waterslide and mini-golf putt-putt. St James beach is characterized by the colourful beach houses and a tidal pool which is ideal for kids. Fish Hoek beach is the ultimate family friendly beach with a wide swathe of sand for building sandcastles, gentle swell for the kids to body board and swim and a playground. Glencairn and Hout Bay are wonderfully safe swimming beaches for the kids, with stretches of white sand to play on or in. Boulders Beach was voted best family beach in the world by the UK Telegraph in March 2007 which is hardly surprising considering the safe swimming, beautiful setting amongst granite boulders and of course the opportunity to swim with penguins. Llandudno with it’s protected bay and granite boulders are fabulous for hide and seek and Camp’s Bay is close to lots of facilities.
For sunbathing and people watching:
Clifton is the main hub for local beach-bodies and various activities of beach-bats, volleyball and Frisbee games. Camps Bay is also popular for surf-skiers and volleyball players and sun lizards to catch the suns rays before joining the jet-set on the Camps Bay strip for cocktails. Sandy Bay – a short walk from Llandudno near Hout Bay is ideal for an all-over-bare-all tan.
Nature and wildlife experiences:
One can do Whale Watching from July – November from all the beaches on the False Bay coastline, Schusters Bay in Scarborough and Hout Bay Beach.
To view or swim with African Penguins, Boulders Beach is the place to be.
Dolphins have been spotted along both coastlines with close viewing sometimes possible from Camps Bay and Clovelly.
If you are lucky you can spot the Cape Clawless Otter on Kommetjie’s Long Beach.
The Cape Peninsula is a beloved year round birding destination with a variety of exciting species and fynbos endemics especially in in the Mountain fynbos which abounds on the Peninsula. Or try a pelagic boat trip from Simonstown to see up 20 plus sea bird species, including albatross, shearwaters, storm petrels & giant petrels.
Romantics will be seduced by the smaller hidden coves that most drivers miss from the road. Hike down to Smitswinkel bay just before the road turns towards the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve entrance – a bay frequented only by private residents or fisherman – the effort is worth the privacy. Scarborough or Misty Cliffs on the Atlantic Coastline are beautiful sandy beaches, dotted with an occasional surfer or windsurfer. The crowds seldom visit Windmill Beach or Fisherman’s Beach on the southern end of Simon’s Town, both as picturesque as the more famed Boulders Beach. Glen Beach adjacent to Camps Bay is another secret gem that is more secluded than its more famous neighbour.
There is no shortage of water based fun activities:
The Cape is a popular sea kayaking and surfski destination with kayak trips from Simon’s Town and surfski school at Fish Hoek or Hout Bay beaches.
Surfing abounds on all sides with Muizenberg ideal for beginners and more experienced surfers can catch waves at Dalebrook near Kalk Bay; Kommetjie, Scarborough, Llandudno (famed for the Big Wave Challenge) and Glen Beach near Camps Bay.
Boat trips leave from Hout Bay or Simon’s Town and also leave from the V & A Waterfront. There is a mixture of leisure cruises, harbour cruises, seal island cruises, Cape Point cruises depending on your needs and time allocation.
Fishing is vastly popular and you can book a deep sea trip with an experienced skipper or get a permit for angling off the shore. The predominant offshore fish species are yellowfin tuna, longfin, mako and occasionally dorado. Inshore there is yellowtail and cape snoek with options for hooking cape salmon and kob.
Under the water, scuba diving in the Cape offers a fascinating discovery of ghostly shipwrecks, huge kelp forests, coral gardens and deep reefs but contact one of the local professional dive operators for advice.
On land book a horse ride with your hosts on Noordhoek beach. Gallop through the waves with a sense of unrequited freedom or enjoy a quiet sunset ride whilst watching the sun meet the horizon across the Atlantic.
Source: Cape Town beaches
