There are few places along the Western Cape coastline that are quite as wild as Betty’s Bay.
Despite the fact that a large provincial road (Clarence Drive) cuts right through it, the town has managed to remain somewhat pristine, characterized by its white-sand and rocky-outcropped beaches, houses rising organically out of lush fynbos, rugged mountain faces, glassy lakes and, of course, the seeming open invitation for gale force winds to rush right through whenever they please.
Also, unlike other coastal hamlets that always seem to ‘nestle,’ Betty’s Bay sprawls.
Covering a long, thin strip of land between the Kogelberg mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, it stretches, extends and unfurls for a full 13km, creating the distinct impression that no matter how hard you try, you will never be able to explore all of it.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t try! Here are some of the coolest activities and sights you will definitely be able to check out during a weekend stay.
Best things to do –
Sandboarding
http://www.walkerbayadventures.co.za/sand-boarding.php
It is an awesome recreational activity that takes place on our Large ±230 meter High Sand Dune rather than on a snow covered mountain. This boarding sport has adherents throughout the world, most prevalently in desert areas or coastal areas with beach dunes.
We are very fortunate to have one of Africas Highest Commercial Sand Boarding Dunes a stone throw away from Cape Town in BettysBay.
Stony Point Eco Centre & Penguin colony
http://www.capenature.co.za/reserves/stony-point-nature-reserve/
Located in the quaint coastal town of Betty’s Bay in the Overberg, the Stony Point Nature Reserve is home to a unique colony of African Penguins. Stony Point offers the public the chance to see these wonderful flightless birds up close, via the boardwalk through the colony, which allows the public to observe the penguins go about their daily activities in their natural habitat, without disturbing or disrupting them.
Explore the hidden beaches
Comfortable shoes:)
These aren’t signposted and there are many paths leading between the houses, over the dunes and onto the sand. If you feel like swimming, walk to the section protected by lifeguards as the waves and currents can be strong.
Harold Porter Botanical Garden
A local favourite and a great place for a leisurely stroll, followed by cake at Disa Kloof Restaurant. Open from 8am to 4:30pm daily. Entrance is R20 an adult and R10 a child.
Tel: 028 272 9311, www.sanbi.org
Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve
Your best bet for a beautiful hike in the fynbos-covered mountains. Permits are R40 a person and it’s open from 7:30am to 7pm daily. Permits are issued at the gate until 4pm.
Tel: 028 271 5138, www.capenature.co.za
Surf Betty’s Bay
Information here – http://www.surf-forecast.com/breaks/Bettys-Bay/forecasts/latest/six_day
When the north west wind blows, Betty’s Bay’s Main Beach produces some of the sickest waves you will find in the south western Cape. Being a beach break, it does tend toward dumpers, but if you hit it on a good day, you may be rewarded with a memorable tube ride or two. It is suited to all experience levels, although when it gets heavy, it really does get HEAVY. Although it is a popular spot with surfers from all over the province, it never gets overcrowded and has managed to keep some of its wild charm.
Hike
Leopard’s Gorge Hiking Trail
WHERE – Start at Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Kleinmond, Cape Overberg.
WHEN – Daylight hours.
HOW – Call +27 (0)28 271-5138
HOW MUCH – Price on request
Rod’s Trail
WHERE – Pipe Road, Bettys Bay, Cape Overberg, Western Cape
HOW MUCH – Free
Palmiet River Trail
WHERE – On the R44 between Betty’s Bay and Kleinmond, Cape Overberg
HOW MUCH – Free
