Elands Bay is a town situated about two and a half hours drive north of Cape Town. This quiet fishing village was named a provincial heritage site as it is well known for its caves, which are filled with historic rock paintings. The Baboon Point cliffs are home to Bobbejaansberg, where excavations show that this area was inhabited by humans more than 15 000 years ago. Elands Bay is also a great spot for surfing and fishing, taking you far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Things to do
If you have a valid license then crayfish diving is a fun and popular activity in Elands Bay. Crayfish season lasts from the middle of November to the end of April. Permits are available from any local post office.
Verlorenvlei is a stunning wetland stretching between Elands Bay and Redelinghuys. This is a great bird watching spot as it is one of the largest natural wetlands along the west coast of South Africa. There is a high diversity of bird and plant species in Verlorenvlei
The quaint Verlorenvlei Heritage Settlement was once a thriving hamlet of settlements, however only four langhuis (longhouse) structures are left today. These buildings are now protected and offer remarkable insight into the architectural style of the time. In the 1770’s farm buildings were built from thatch and plastered unfired clay brick. The name ‘langhuis’ is derived from the shape of the building, which was built in one singular line.
The quiet and tranquil Elands Bay Beach is well known amongst the surfing community as it is such a great surf spot. Not only a prime surfing location and wonderful place to relax, there are plenty of activities to take part in on this beach such as crayfish diving, whale watching and fishing.
Where to eat
The Tin Kitchen is set in a 300 year old barn on the historic Vensterklip farm. With locally sourced pork, beef and lamb, as well as delicious seafood. All vegetables and salad are homegrown, and the kids will love Friday pizza nights.
Perfectly situated on the beach, Draaihoek Restaurant overlooks the waves of the west coast. Here you will find gourmet meals served with superb quality wines. The restaurant is part of the luxury Draaihoek Lodge.
The Wit Mossel Pot Beach Bar and Surf Shack has a superb relaxed atmosphere offering classic west coast meals. Visitors can choose from a selection of hake and chips, calamari, seafood platters and combos or burgers, salads and toasted sandwiches.
Elands Bay Hotel Restaurant is comfortable and relaxed offering family friendly dining. A great steakhouse and seafood restaurant.
Where to stay
Quaint west coast guesthouses, lodges and hotels can be found in Elands Bay. Accommodations are close to the beach giving you easy access to all the fun outdoor activities.
Transport
Car: The easiest way to get around Elands Bay is by car. Car’s can be rented in Cape Town or online. Elands Bay is located approximately 240km from Cape Town.
Air: The nearest airport to Elands Bay is Cape Town International, approximately 224km away.
Taxis: There are limited taxi services available in Elands Bay, and you will need to prearrange your planned trip with a taxi service.
Did You Know?
Elands Bay is often misspelt as Eeland's Bay, Eland Baai, Ilands Bay and Eilands Bay.
The name Verlorenvlei was given by Johannes Tobias Rhenius, in 1724, meaning ‘lost valley’ or ‘lost marsh’.
Verlorenvlei is home to at least 232 types of birds.
Elands Bay was once just a base for fishing boats, before it became a popular surfing destination.
Verlorenvlei is one of the few coastal fresh water lakes in South Africa.
