Exploring the West Coast, South Africa

The Cape West Coast is one of South Africa’s most gorgeous, family-friendly regions near Cape Town.

With an array of cutesy seaside villages and quaint coastal towns, incredible natural flora and fauna, pristine beaches and amazing seasonal highlights, there is so much to see and enjoy in this unique part of the Western Cape.

In this post, we share some fun places, activities and experiences for you to enjoy while exploring the West Coast.

Savour the Annual Wild Flower Season

Few natural attractions found around the world are as special as the West Coast’s wild flower season, which usually takes place from August to September annually.

While the whole of the Western Cape blooms to life with wild flowers during springtime, the West Coast – in particular Postberg section of the West Coast National Park – is arguably one of the most beautiful, accessible places to enjoy this unique flower display.

Each year, depending on timing, weather patterns and seasonal rainfall, visitors flock to Postberg Reserve to witness thousands of wild flowers riotously blooming in carpets of yellow, white, reds and pinks.

The West Coast National Park has paid entry but it is well worth it because you can also enjoy swimming and water sports in different parts of the warm lagoon; picnicking and braaing; MTB trails and hiking and even wildlife spotting.

Other areas in the West Coast and surrounds that are ideal for flower spotting include Darling Renosterveld Reserve, Tienie Versfeld Wild Flower Reserve, Groenekloof Reserve and Ramskop Nature Reserve to name a few.

Visit a Coastal Town or Seaside Village

The West Coast is loved for its tranquil seaside towns and villages. These offer perfect-picture ocean views, family-friendly holidays, fun experiences and of course, beautiful stretches of sugar-white beaches.

These small towns and villages offer not only the chance to escape the city and recharge by the sea – but a selection of historical little museums, quaint streets, cheerful beach houses and an array of accommodation- and restaurant-options besides.

Some of the loveliest seaside villages and coastal towns to explore on the West Coast include Yzerfontein, Langebaan, Paternoster and Lambert’s Bay to name only a few.

Best of all, each is unique, yet equally lovely in its own right.

Dine at a West Coast Eatery

The West Coast offers a fascinating selection of eateries, restaurants and farm stalls to eat your way through.

Whether you are craving some pick-me-up padkos for the return journey back to Cape Town or simply seeking some quality dining experiences during your West Coast getaway, here are some great eateries and restaurants to sample in the West Coast.

Pop into the quirky, yet welcoming Weskus Padstal/West Coast Farm Stall. They have a small deli shop on hand, as well as a quiet but good sit-down eatery that specialises in simple, tasty fare.

Dine in true West Coast style at Die Strandloper Restaurant (bookings essential). Here, you can enjoy a unique open-air, vibey atmosphere, excellent fresh fish and seafood cuisine and a wide array of seafood-themed courses. It’s rustic but oh-so-popular and honestly, one of the most incredible West Coast experiences.

If you are seeking a beach gem that is loved for its cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, look no further than Die Gaaitjie Restaurant. People rave about the food (especially the monk fish) and the setting – and it is easy to see why!

Lastly, if you manage to secure a booking (it often books up months in advance), Wolfgat is one for the fine dining books. This special West Coast restaurant offers impeccable cuisine, setting and service, making it one of the finest, most highly rated restaurants anywhere.

Embark on a West Coast Adventure

The West Coast is unquestionably an adventure lover’s paradise.

With everything from water sports to horseback rides along the beach to nature-rich hiking, MTB trails and family-friendly outdoor experiences, there is plenty for travellers and families to savour here.

Some travel highlights and outdoor adventure offerings include: Thali Thali game drive(s), beach horse rides, fun boat trips, kite surfing, hiking in the West Coast National Park (among other special places and reserves) and even sea kayaking.