5 Awesome Things to do Along the West Coast

The West Coast of South Africa offers a wide range of things to do and places to see, and it’s right on your doorstep. This stretch, which starts in Blaauwberg and spans until St Helena Bay on the R27, is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.

Rich in cultural and natural diversity, the West Coast is home to quaint fishing villages, stunning beaches and culinary hotspots. We’ve selected 5 must-do activities that should be on your Cape Town bucket list.

5 Awesome Things to do Along the West Coast of South Africa:

1. View the West Coast Flowers
Every year, between August and September, the West Coast springs to life with thousands of beautiful flowers that populate the slopes, hills and coastal villages. The West Coast National Park is the best place to visit to witness this breath-taking time of year. Although the Postberg section of the park serves as a major highlight for many as this area is only open to the public during the flower season, the entire park is a nature-lovers dream, offering a wide array of activities to indulge in, such as hiking, biking and bird-spotting trails.

2. Visit the Mamre Mission Station
Dating back to the 1600s, the Mamre Mission Station was initially established by Cape Governor Simon van Der Stel as a military station and cattle post to guard the settlers and their livestock from the indigenous Khoi people. Today, the little West Coast hidden gem is home to South Africa’s fifth oldest church (it’s still used for services) and a historic watermill that has been turned into a museum.

3.Wine tasting at Groote Post Estate
Situated along the gorgeous West Coast Flower Route, Groote Post is an 18^th-century farm that offers nature walks and game drives. But you will want to stop by for a good ol’ wine tasting session. The winery is situated in a lovely green valley threaded by the Klawer River, a stream really, with Kikuyu lawns bordering on the werf, all watched over by the beautifully restored Cape Dutch Klawer Valley homestead and the imposing slave bell (depicted on the Groote Post wine labels).

4. Kitesurfing
Whether you are an avid kitesurfer or just want to witness the thrill seekers doing their thing, the West Coast (from Blouberg and Yzerfontein to Velddrif and Big Bay) features prime kitesurfing spots. The Cape Doctor, the strong, and dry south-easterly wind allows the kitesurfers to take to the sky and get their adrenaline rushing.

5. Grab a bite to eat at Damhuis Restaurant
If you’ve worked up an appetite after all your adventures, you’ll want to stop by Melkbosstrand and pop into Damhuis Restaurant for a delicious meal. Specialising in traditional South African cuisine and only the freshest seafood, Damhuis offers a unique dining experience in one of South Africa’s oldest buildings. Not to mention, there is a spacious play area so your little ones can expend all that boundless energy while you enjoy a cold one.