Top Paternoster Picks.

We love the West Coast; the raw beauty of it all, the rugged Atlantic ocean, the endless beaches and the plethora of opportunities to enjoy the water. Paternoster, a small seaside town, about two hours from Cape Town is really one of the best places to spot and stay along the West Coast. Even though we have been so many times before, we’ve never stayed closer to the beach or explored as many places as we did on this visit. So here’s our top Paternoster picks…

Top self catering cottage

This time we stayed at the Crayfish Catcher, which was about 200m away from the beach. With three bedrooms, outside braai, indoor fire place, large ‘stoep’ ( porch) for family braais and to enjoy balmy summer nights; this cottage was wonderfully priced for what was offered. From the main bedroom we could open the shutters and catch a glimpse of the ocean through the other whitewashed cottages. As the sky surrendered itself to pink hues, we braaied crayfish and sat outside savouring the warm air and the sound of the waves not too far away.

Best Place to buy Coffee

We were overjoyed to find a new coffee shop which also doubles up as a venue ( for conferences, weddings and more) near the entrance to Paternoster. Mondvol Koffiehuis ( coffee shop) stocks some seriously delicious coffee, so grab a bag or two to take home with you ( like we did) or sit and enjoy the quiche of the day, scones or more with a cappuccino there.

Address: 15 Seemeeusingel, Pelgrimsrust, Paternoster.

Best Place for Quirky decor plus Coffee and croissants (and other gourmet meals)

Junk and Disorderly are one of the newbie’s on the block with a rustic little outdoor and indoor seating area. I dare you to walk past the freshly-baked croissants and not order one. Everything from maps, to small cars and art are for sale and decorate this little store’s interior. The gourmet menu is quite extensive with many opportunities to surprise your tastebuds.

Address: 87 St Augustine Rd, Voorstrand, Paternoster.

Best Place for Lunch/Dinner

The Noisy Oyster finds it’s home in an old house and right beside Junk and Disorderly. Definitely a more popular option for scrumptious meals in town, you have to book to avoid disappointment. Seafood lovers may delight in oysters, calamari, prawns and mussels and fresh fish. Those not keen on seafood can find other options on the menu such as pizza and steak.

Address: 62 St Augustine Rd, Paternoster

Best Fish and Chips

While many of the restaurants serve fish and chips; you can’t beat the value or flavour of the fish and chips sold right down at the little store right on the beach, On the Rocks, beside the parking lot. Sprinkle some salt, add tomato sauce and eat your fresh hake and chips on the paper packaging with plastic cutlery amongst the locals and with the sea in view; the only real way to enjoy fish and chips in South Africa. You’ll have to queue on weekends, but it’s always worth the wait.