The West Coast of South Africa is a captivating coastal region stretching north from Cape Town along the Atlantic Ocean, celebrated for its raw natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and strong connection to the sea.
It’s known for wide open beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic coastal scenery, with small fishing villages where time seems to slow down. The region is famous for its fresh seafood — especially crayfish, mussels, and snoek — often enjoyed in simple, rustic seaside restaurants.
One of the West Coast’s highlights is its spectacular wildflower season in spring, when the normally dry landscape transforms into a colourful carpet of blooms. The area also offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as whale watching, kayaking, kite surfing, birding, hiking, and exploring national parks and lagoons.
Culturally, the West Coast has a rich heritage shaped by fishing communities, Cape Dutch history, and local traditions. It’s a place that appeals to travellers looking for tranquility, authenticity, and unspoiled nature, far removed from busy tourist crowds.
The West Coast Fossil Park is a world-renowned palaeontological site and protected heritage area near Langebaanweg in the Western Cape, South Africa. It preserves exceptionally well-preserved fossil remains of animals that lived about 5.2 million years ago during the late Miocene/early Pliocene era, when the region was lush with riverine forests and savanna rather than the semi-arid landscape of today.
Discovered during phosphate mining in the mid-20th century, the site contains a rich diversity of fossil fauna — including extinct species such as sabre-toothed cats, short-necked giraffes (sivatheres), hunting hyenas and African bears — making it one of the most diverse fossil deposits of its age in the world.
Visitors can view fossils in situ at the active dig site, explore interpretive exhibits in the Visitor Centre, and learn about ancient environments and life in the Cape West Coast millions of years ago. The park is also a National Heritage Site and part of the “Cradle of Human Culture” artist and heritage route.
Draaihoek Lodge and Restaurant is a scenic coastal lodge and restaurant in Elands Bay, Western Cape, on a private nature reserve overlooking dunes and a long stretch of sandy beach along the Atlantic Coast.
Offering a range of accommodations including luxury en-suite suites and a Manor House, each with comfortable beds, fireplaces, and views of the beach or reserve — ideal for couples, families or groups seeking a tranquil West Coast getaway.
The on-site restaurant serves relaxed, locally inspired cuisine with a focus on hearty dishes and good wine in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect after a day of beach walks or nature exploration.
Guests enjoy direct access to unspoiled beaches, birdwatching, scenic walks, and spectacular sunsets, all set within a peaceful natural environment typical of the West Coast.
Overall it’s known for its serene location, comfortable lodging and homely dining experience in a beautiful coastal reserve.
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is a luxurious wilderness lodge and private reserve set in the dramatic Cederberg Mountains near Clanwilliam. It combines five-star accommodation and fine South African cuisine with immersive natural and cultural experiences.
Offering stunning settings spread across thousands of hectares of rugged mountain terrain, sandstone formations and fynbos landscapes. It is home to over 130 ancient San rock art sites dating back thousands of years, with guided walks and a heritage centre showcasing artefacts.
Elegant suites and private villas, spa and wellness offerings, fine dining using local ingredients, and a mix of relaxed and gourmet dining options offer you the guest luxury experiences.
They offer a number of outdoor activities including guided nature walks, hikes, mountain biking, canoeing, birdwatching and more — all set within a protected natural heritage reserve.
It’s renowned both for its wilderness tranquility and cultural significance, making it a standout destination for nature lovers and travellers seeking a premium South African escape.
Fryer’s Cove Vineyard is a unique coastal winery, restaurant and wine-tourism spot in Doringbaai. The vineyard is the only one in the tiny Bamboes Bay ward, planted just a few hundred metres from the icy Atlantic Ocean – giving its wines a distinct maritime character “forged by the earth and tempered by the sea”. Fryer’s Cove produces a range of cool-climate wines influenced by salty sea mist and strong coastal winds.
The tasting venue and Jetty Restaurant are housed in a repurposed old fish factory on the waterfront, where visitors can sip wine while enjoying views of the ocean and local seafood-inspired dishes.
Its dramatic location on the West Coast, close to crashing waves and rugged shoreline, makes it a memorable stop for wine lovers and travellers exploring the region.
Carmien Tea and De Tol is a popular stop on the Rooibos Route, combing a rooibos tea destination with a historic farm deli and wine tasting experience just off the Piekniekerskloof Pass on the N7. The Carmien Tea shop showcases a wide range of premium rooibos teas and herbal blends produced locally, with opportunities to taste different teas, try unique tea-and-gin pairings or explore tea-and-wine pairings. Visitors can also enjoy fresh farm style food, local produce and artisanal goods at the adjacent De Tol Farm Deli, which sits in a scenic rural setting with mountain views.
Gecko Creek Wilderness Lodge is a peaceful self-catering wilderness retreat set on a private 517-hectare nature reserve on the edge of the Cederberg Wilderness Area near Clanwilliam in the Western Cape, South Africa.
It offers rustic accommodation in cabins and safari-style tents with sweeping valley and mountain views, a communal lapa and fire-pit (boma) for cooking and socialising, a salt-water swimming pool, and access to hiking and nature activities — all in an environment known for its silence, expansive night skies, and abundant fynbos and birdlife.
The lodge is ideal for nature lovers looking to unplug and experience the solitude and beauty of the Cederberg landscape.
Joetsie Lodge is a family-run accommodation and leisure retreat on a farm near Lutzville on the Namaqua West Coast. It’s about 50-60km from Lutzville itself towards Brand-se-Baai, and well-liked for its relaxed rural atmosphere.
You can choose from standard twin rooms and double rooms, open-plan self-catering cabins or units, basic contractor units, and powered campsites. Self-catering cabins come with kitchenettes and built-in braai (barbecue), air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and DSTV; rooms have ensuite showers and optional catering add-ons.
The setting on a working farm offers an “authentic farm stay” vibe, with space to wander fields, meet farm animals, and enjoy open landscapes. Brand-se-Baai beach is a short drive away.
There’s a large pool and splash pool, a licensed bar, a simple 9-hole farm golf course, pool table, and family-friendly spaces for gatherings or braais.
It’s often chosen both by travellers exploring the West Coast and by visitors to nearby work sites like mines, as a comfortable and welcoming base with a strong community feel.
Klein Tafelberg Training and Adventure Centre (near Redelinghuys, Western Cape, South Africa) is a nature‑based adventure and accommodation destination set in the scenic Sandveld region about 2+ hours’ drive from Cape Town.
It’s not just a mountain name—it’s a training and activity centre offering outdoor experiences and stays in chalets, glamping tents or campsites amidst fynbos and open landscapes.Visitors can enjoy hiking and climbing on and around the Klein Tafelberg area, explore 4×4 trails, try airsoft or shooting range activities, go bird‑watching, or simply relax in nature. The facility doubles as a venue for team‑building events and group training in a peaceful rural setting.
Klein Tafelberg in Redelinghuys refers to both the natural outdoor terrain/feature and the adventure centre that uses it as a playground for hiking, 4×4 driving and outdoor activities.
Kloovenburg Wine and Olive Estate is a family-run winery and olive estate on the R46 at Riebeek Kasteel in the Swartland region. It’s one of the oldest farms in the area and has been in the du Toit family since the 1950’s, developing into a reputable producer of estate-grown wines and olive products.
The estate grows a variety of grapes — including Shiraz, Grenache, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and more — used to make both red and white wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in their tasting room, often paired with olive oils, olives and local charcuterie.
Kloovenburg also produces olive oils, bottled olives, tapenades and artisanal products that reflect the Mediterranean character of the region.
Beyond wine, the estate offers hiking trails into the nearby Kasteelberg fynbos and country guesthouse accommodation for a relaxed stay in the valley.
It’s a charmingly rustic yet vibrant wine destination blending family heritage, quality wine and olive flavours with scenic valley experiences.
Kaijaiki Country inn and Restaurant is a country‑style guesthouse/B&B located about less than 1 km from the beach
The country house offers a mix of en‑suite rooms including family rooms, twin rooms and a self‑catering unit with a kitchenette — all with tea/coffee facilities, flat‑screen TV, Wi‑Fi and fireplaces for a cozy stay. Rooms have a rustic West Coast charm with wooden beams and parquet flooring.
There’s a coffee shop called “Koffie en jy” on the premises serving light lunches and a good breakfast.
Close to Yzerfontein’s beaches — ideal for walking, swimming and relaxing by the sea.
Kaijaiki is a comfortable, relaxed guesthouse with nice rooms, coffee shop and easy beach access — a great base for exploring Yzerfontein and the West Coast.
Papkuilsvlei is a self-catering farmhouse stay set on Wittewater Farm in the rural Papkuilsvlei are, between Piketberg and Redelinghuys. It’s ideal for groups, families or friends looking for a peaceful countryside escape with a classic farm atmosphere.
The property sits on a spacious, enclosed plot — great for privacy and even pet‑friendly stays (by arrangement). Guests can explore the farm on foot or by bike and enjoy the country ambiance. There’s a farm dam for swimming in summer and an outdoor braai area with firewood available on site.
The stay is quiet and restorative, perfect if you want a rural West Coast experience — open skies, birdlife, fields and a relaxed pace. It’s a good base for exploring nearby towns like Piketberg or the scenic stretches toward Redelinghuys and the coast.
Peace Haven @ Windfarm Accommodation in Yzerfontein is a nature-based self-catering getaway set between Yzerfontein and Darling, near the iconic first wind turbines on the West Coast.
You can stay in glamping tents, glamp cabins or modern A‑frame suites, all designed for comfort in a bush setting with views over Table Mountain and towards the ocean.
A social area with pool tables, a built‑in braai and seating makes it nice for groups or gatherings.
Pets are allowed by prior arrangement, and the property is set in a serene natural environment — great for a relaxing coastal escape with nature, beaches, and nearby attractions like Darling and West Coast National Park.
Penguins at Sea is a spacious self-catering beach house in Grotto Bay Private Nature Reserve – a calm coastal getaway about 45-minues from Cape Town.
It’s a 4-bedroom, 2-bath holiday home that comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests, ideal for families and groups looking for a relaxed beach break.
Outside you’ll find a private swimming pool, a patio with sea views, outdoor braai/barbeque facilities and easy walking access to the beach.
Penguins at Sea is a comfortable, well‑equipped beach house with sea views, pool and plenty of space — perfect for a West Coast holiday with friends or family.
SeaHouse is a self‑catering holiday home in the Jacobsbaai (Jacobs Bay) area on the West Coast of the Western Cape, South Africa — about 140 km from Cape Town along the scenic R27. The property is just about 50 m from the sea, with easy access to beaches, rocky bays, coastal paths and bird‑rich fynbos — perfect for walks, exploring tidal pools or watching sunsets.
It offers a mix of self‑catering units — typically a 4‑sleeper holiday home and two smaller 2‑sleeper apartments, each with its own bathroom, open‑plan living/dining space and basic kitchenette appliances. The holiday home includes two en‑suite bedrooms, a fully‑equipped kitchen and indoor/outdoor braai (barbecue) facilities, making it great for family or group stays. Guests enjoy free Wi‑Fi, secure parking and often sea or garden views; pets may be allowed by arrangement.
Jacobsbaai itself is a quiet, picturesque seaside village known for its relaxed atmosphere, seafood, beaches and wildflowers in spring.
In brief, SeaHouse is a comfortable, flexible self‑catering beach stay ideal for couples, families or small groups wanting a West Coast coastal getaway close to shoreline activities.
The Magical Mongoose is a highly rated self‑catering beach accommodation in Jacobsbaai, Western Cape, South Africa, right on a rocky shoreline with ocean views and iconic West Coast sunsets.
The property offers two comfortable units — usually a one‑bedroom and a two‑bedroom apartment — each with en‑suite bathroom(s), quality linen, a cosy fireplace and a kitchenette for self‑catering.
It’s just steps from the beach boardwalk and provides scenic sea views from the patios where you can relax and use the Weber Braai (barbecue).
Units include free Wi‑Fi, comfortable beds with Egyptian‑cotton linen, tea/coffee facilities, and plenty of indoor/outdoor space for dining or unwinding while listening to the ocean.
Magical Mongoose is a comfortable self-catering beach resort retreat combining good facilities, seafront location and a laid-back West Coast holiday feel.
Memories Self-Catering is a holiday rental and can be found in Yzerfontein, a relaxing seaside village on the West Coast about an hour north of Cape Town.
A comfortable, fully‑equipped holiday apartment/vacation home where you can stay on a self‑catering basis, meaning you have your own kitchen to prepare meals.
Typically offers a 3‑bedroom layout suitable for families or groups, with living and dining areas, kitchen, and space to unwind after a day at the beach.
et close to Yzerfontein’s beaches and coastal attractions, making it ideal for beach walks, swimming, braais (barbecues) and exploring the small town and nearby nature.
Yzerfontein Memories is a well‑reviewed self‑catering seaside stay perfect for a coastal West Coast holiday with family or friends.
Dune Rose is a beachfront holiday accommodation in Yzerfontein, – a peaceful West Coast village known for its long sandy beaches and coastal views. It offers comfortable beds and spacious living areas with outdoor spaces (braai/barbecue), a swimming pool and is ideal for families or groups of 8.
They understand that pets are part of the family, which is why Dune Rose is a pet-friendly holiday home, ensuring everyone feels at home during their stay.
It is a fantastic beachfront location with sea views and beach access and is generally a relaxing, tranquil stay right by the ocean.
21 Flamingo House is a self-catering holiday home in Yzerfontein, ideal for families or groups looking for a spacious beach-side stay.
The house sleeps up to 10 guests in 5 bedrooms, has a spacious double-storey layout with multiple living and dining areas. There is a jacuzzi on the balcony that offers amazing sea views with braai facilities both inside and outside as well as a pizza oven.
It is within 250 walking distance to the beach.
For luxurious accommodation paired with stunning ocean views, this is the perfect choice for your beach stay
The Shark Bay Boutique Accommodation & Spa in Langebaan, South Africa is a boutique hotel and spa resort set right beside the tranquil Shark Bay lagoon on the West Coast.
This is a stylish boutique accommodation with about 15 rooms and villas that often feature balconies or sea/lagoon views with a well-regarded spa and wellness centre, offering massages, facials and body treatments inspired by coastal themes—a relaxing retreat after beach or sightseeing activities.
On-site amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar, free Wi-Fi, and direct access to a private beach area on the lagoon.
The hotel’s restaurant uses local ingredients and offers indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful water views.
It’s popular with couples and families looking for a quiet West Coast getaway; many guests praise the location and friendly staff.
Overall it’s known as a peaceful, scenic spot for a romantic escape or laid-back holiday on South Africa’s West Coast with spa and beach access right on site.
113 Golden Mile is a private guest suite / holiday rental on the famous Golden Mile beachfront area in St Helena Bay. It’s typically offered as a self-contained guest suite rather than a formal hotel
A private one-bedroom guest suite with space for up to two guests featuring a double bed, private bathroom, small kitchenette area (kettle, microwave, fridge, cutlery), and a private entrance.
It is situated on a short dedicated walkway to the beach, so the ocean is only minutes away.
113 Golden Mile is a cosy, well-reviewed beachfront guest suite ideal for couples or solo travellers looking for simple self-catering accommodation right by the beach in St Helena Bay.
Contact Jo @ 083 308 2908