Places to see in the Overberg | Cape Whale Coast

Named after the HMS Arniston, a British troop ship that sank in 1815 killing more than 300 on board, Arniston is a beautiful little coastal fishing village with one of the longest beaches in Africa. Azure blue water, rocky coves and authentic fisherman cottages add to the magical beauty of this coastal jewel.

A stone’s throw from Franskraal and not to be missed is the enchanting hamlet of Baardskeerdersbos which is fast becoming a sought after haven for city slickers as a weekend getaway. Made up of a fascinating patchwork of rolling farmlands and small holdings with quaint

A typical rural town with a large farming community known predominantly for farming with Merino sheep and wheat. Bredasdorp offers a fabulous day trip with several little speciality shops with pottery, antiques and local delicacies on offer.

Situated on the Danger Point Penisula, Buffeljagsbaai is home to a very small fishing community who live only from the sea. This pristine coastal gem offers magnificent visuals of stark beauty with its magnificent untouched sweeping seascapes. To the west of Buffeljagsbaai is a small caravan- and bungalow-park situated in between the dunes with access to a beautiful secluded beach and bay.

L'Agulhas is the southernmost town in Africa and marks the point where the mighty Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Agulhas is a lively little seaside resort which comes alive during the holiday seasons with visitors from far and wide.

Die Kelders, so named after the “Drup Kelders” which are naturally formed caves which have deep freshwater rock pools filled by water seeping from a freshwater fountain, known also as one of the natural wonders of the old Colony. The natural formation of stalagmites and stalactites are evident throughout the caves and tours are conducted regularly by appointment.

Elim, long been declared a national monument is famous for its thatch roofed homes as are the thatchers from Elim who are sought after as masters of their fine craft.

The quaint white washed cottages are painted each year before Easter as a tradition symbolizing purity and simplicity – integral to the lifestyle of the village people who live their lives close to their Church.

Gansbaai is located at the foot of the Duyenefontein Mountains and has grown from a small seaside village to a bustling tourist attraction during the past few years as a result of its White Shark Cage Diving Industry.

The fishing village of Hawston is located between Fisherhaven and Onrus en route to Hermanus. Hawston was named after Charles Haw who settled in Caledon in June 1859 often visiting Hawston for vacations.

The village of Hawston is rich in traditional history and the locals are eager to share their beautiful beach and ocean's bountiful catch with visitors.

Hermanus was often referred to as the Riviera of the South in bygone days and for all intents and purposes, has maintained its status albeit with a modern fusion of luxury holiday homes dotting the pristine coastline, funky cafes, coffee shops and eateries overlooking Walker Bay, speciality shops to delight even the most selective shopper and craft markets to keep you busy for hours.

Situated just 3 kms outside the town of Gansbaai, this is where it all happens when it comes to White Sharks. Licensed White Shark Tour operators launch their well equipped boats from the Kleinbaai harbour out to Dyer Island and Geyser Rock where all the action takes place on a daily basis, weather permitting.

Napier, Cape Overberg: The town, named after the governor of the day, Sir George Napier, was founded 12 April 1838 when the first erven were sold. The town is central to a prosperous wheat and wool producing area in addition to producing large quantities of strawberries in summer.

Onrus is a typical laid-back holiday town and home to several famous artists and authors such as Jan Rabie, Elsa Joubert, Uys Krige, Gregoire Boonzaaier and Marjorie Wallace amongst others.

Situated 20 minutes (25 km) from Gansbaai, this peaceful little town is still relatively undeveloped. Although the concentration of permanent residents is increasing, over half the houses still belong to holiday-makers.

With the Klein River meandering through this picturesque village, Stanford offers one of the finest bird watching venues in the Overberg.

A popular weekend getaway for city slickers, this town is home to several permanent residents who prefer the fresh air and tranquility of this interesting little Overberg town.