A trip along the Cape’s West Coast unveils some of the best pristine beaches, stunning landmarks, and rich cultural history. Here you will find an abundance of things to do and see for the entire family.
DISCOVER HOW THE STORY OF SOUTHERN AFRICA’S FIRST PEOPLE IS YOUR STORY TOO
Don’t miss the chance to visit !Khwa ttu. This peaceful nature reserve 70 km’s drive from Cape Town has something for everyone with its award-winning museum, walking and cycle trails overlooked by zebra and buck, and a farm-fresh, foraging Restaurant worth the visit alone.
Take one of the San-led guided tours through the museums, or the veldt, and experience the deep knowledge the San have of food and medicinal plants, how to track your supper and that the more one knows, the less they need.
The permanent museum exhibitions tell the intriguing story from human origins to contemporary San life in three thought-provoking buildings which you can also experience at your own pace.
The restaurant serves seasonal, bistro-style food with ingredients foraged from the farm, or from local ethical businesses. There’s so much to do if possible stay overnight – accommodation ranges from farm cottages to furnished tents with open-air showers and a communal boma.
This is a great option for everyone open to enjoying and sharing some San spirit.
Cost: Self-guided tours, R80pp. Guided tours, R160pp. Free entry on 1st day of the month
When: Daily, 9am to 5pm
Where: R27 west Coast Rd, Yzerfontein (Darling)
Website: khwattu.org | Email: info@khwattu.org | Tel: 022 492 2998
Facebook: @khwattu | Instagram: @khwattu
WATER PARK FUN FOR ALL AT WACKY ADVENTURES
If you’re looking for an exciting way to cool off with family and friends this summer or planning your next kids’ party, give Wacky Adventures a try. The family-owned adventure park offers a wide range of fun activities and water features to enjoy.
Wacky Adventures is situated within driving distance from Cape Town, outside of Hopefield on the West Coast.
The water park area comes recommended for its variety of slides and swimming pools for both adults and kids, as well as a creek bed for the littles or not-quite-as-adventurous kids. There is plenty of grasslands around to properly make a day of it, practice hula hoop, or play swing ball.
Other exciting activities include quad biking, go-karting, trampolines, and many more. Wacky Adventures also have a refreshing food menu to keep one refreshed and powered up.
Cost: Day pass, from R120pp
When: Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays and December/January School Holidays Hours 9am to 5pm
Where: R45 between Hopefield and Langebaan
Website: wackyadventures.co.za | Email: info@wackyadventures.co.za | Tel: 076 151 1177
Facebook: @wackyadventuressa | Instagram: @wackyadventuressa
DINE ON FRESH SEAFOOD AND SOUTH AFRICAN CUISINE AT DIE DAMHUIS
Where to eat on the West coast? It’s not every day that one can enjoy a relaxed dining experience in a South African National Monument.
The Damhuis Restaurant building was originally set up in Melkbosstrand around 1785 as a ‘visschuur’ (fish barn) where fish were cleaned, salted, and dried. Over the years the space has evolved to what it is today, a rich history and heritage along the beautiful seaside of Melkbosstrand.
With executive chef Stèfan Meintjes at the helm, the restaurant places a specific focus on traditional South African cuisine and seafood. Think Saldanha oysters, creamy West Coast mussels, and interesting takes on fish. A strong meat and poultry offer can also be tried.
The restaurant is sea-facing, giving you a perfect excuse to go on a casual stroll on the beach after breakfast or lunch.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 9pm
Where: 32 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand
Website: diedamhuis.co.za | Email: info@diedamhuis.co.za | Tel: 021 553 0093
Facebook: @damhuisrestaurant | Instagram: @damhuis_restaurant
5 STAR GOLFING EXPERIENCE AT THE ATLANTIC BEACH GOLF CLUB
Set against an unspoiled view of Table Mountain, The Atlantic Beach Golf Club offers a wide variety of upmarket golfing experiences for both professional and beginner golfers. This golf estate in Melkbosstrand boasts an 18-hole golf course with a full-scale driving range and practice facilities as well as a restaurant and other facilities.
Plan your next Corporate Golf Day or golfing event with their seasoned team who can cover all the finer details including branding, catering, and even accommodation. Corporate Golf Days are hosted on Monday to Wednesday and Friday.
This ‘Jewel of the Wes Coast’ also offers a leisure centre with restaurants, modern residential suites, tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness centre, and a beautiful landscape along the coast.
EOGA Golf Academy offers individual golfing lessons for complete beginners, ladies and junior group classes, as well as on-course sessions. Their teaching professionals are PGA Qualified and offer lessons to all levels and ages.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 7am to 6pm
Where: 1 Fairway Drive, Melkbosstrand, Atlantic Beach Estate
Website: golf.atlanticbeachestate.co.za | Email: info@atlanticbeachlinks.com | Tel: 021 553 2223
Facebook: @abcg001 | Instagram: @atlanticbeachlinks
FUSS-FREE BRUNCH IDEAS AT JACK’S BAGELS
Jacks Bagels is the ultimate choice for a fuss-free brunch or late lunch, or just a grab & go on your way to the beach. Their proudly South African bagel recipe and premium coffee blends are fast turning the group into a new South African favourite.
Bakers at the Melkbosstrand outlet, are up early each day to roll out freshly baked dough rings and with no dairy, eggs, or preservatives which also makes them ideal for vegans.
Meaty fillings are available for the inside, but like any self-respecting bagel shop, salmon and cream cheese are the schmear of choice. More substantial fillings include smoked salmon, pastrami, and avocado.
There’s also a piquant line of sweet bagels with peanut butter and banana, gorgonzola cheese with figs, and more. You’ll also find freshly squeezed juices and some of the best-iced coffee around.
When: Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 4:30pm; Saturday, 8am to 3pm; Sunday, 9am to 2pm
Where: 16 Birkenhead Drive, Melkbosstrand
Website: jacksbagels.co.za | Email: adeled@jackbagels.co.za | Tel: 068 432 8665
Facebook: @jacksbagelsmelkbosstrand | Instagram: @jacksbagels_melkbos
SANDBOARDING ON THE ATLANTIS DUNES
Sandboarding Cape Town invites adventure seekers to a gripping outdoor experience at the majestic Atlantis Dunes.
Expert sand boarders are on hand to show you the ropes. Make your way to the summit and brace yourself for a swift decline. Daredevils wanting to catch some air can attempt a jump from the sand ramps.
Put the pedal to the metal on the adrenaline-pumping Dune Thrasher. This V8 off-road machine offers a hyperfast ride boosting up the mountainous dunes drifting with ferocious velocity.
For a longer voyage try out the one-hour 4×4 drives. A great setting for photographers captures the scenery and a fun trip for passengers.
When: Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 2pm & 7pm to 9pm
Where: Klein Dassenberg Rd, Atlantis
Website: sandboardingcapetown.com | Email: dylan@sandboardingcapetown.com | Tel: 084 665 1314
Facebook: @sandboardingcapetown | Instagram: @sandboardingcapetown
TANNIE EVITA IS BACK WITH A SPECIAL LINEUP OF SHOWS IN DARLING
Tannie Evita returns to the stage with a new look and ready to chat about these uncertain times.
She’s back! New look, old tricks. Tannie Evita Praat Kaktus, where she proves that the future is certain; it’s just the past that is unpredictable.
Evita se Perron is also home to a cafe for light treats and a marketplace filled with locally made gifts and food with funky packaging, descriptive names, and interesting décor. The local brands sold in this Swartland emporium are all handcrafted in an effort to create employment opportunities for locals.
Limited seats, online booking is essential.
Cost: R200pp. Book via Quicket
When: Various dates, see here for full schedule
Where: Theatre at Evita se Perron, 8 Arcadia St, Darling
Website: evitaseperron.com | Email: frits@evitaseperron.com | Tel: 022 492 2101
Facebook: @evitaseperron | Instagram: @evitaseperron
TRADITIONAL BOEREKOS ON THE SEASIDE AT BOESMANLAND PLAASKOMBUIS
Boesmanland Plaaskombuis/Farm Kitchen offers a unique informal dining experience with flavours from local seafood, African dishes to Boerekos.
Boasting breathtaking beach views being located right on the beach at Club Mykonos in Langebaan. Run and owned by Susan and Lindes, who both are passionate about providing a warm, engaging and hospitable environment for guests.
Dishes are prepared on open fires daily, making fresh and home-style food their speciality. Their famous Soetsuurdeeg bread is something not to be missed, prepared with a salt and potato ferment yeast and baked in a wood-fired oven to give it that unforgettable taste.
Boesmanland Plaaskombuis is a space where hearty food, friendly crackling fires and the soothing sound of the sea come together to create an idyllic atmosphere.
When: Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 2pm & 7pm to 9pm
Where: Langebaan, West Coast
Website: boesmanlandfarmkitchen.com | Email: susan@boesmanlandfarmkitchen.com | Tel: 022 772 1564
Facebook: @boesmanlandplaaskombuis | Instagram: @boesmanlandfarmkitchen
