THE BEACH / Activities

Witsand Activities

   
Although it is primarily known for its multitude of whales from June to November, there is much to keep one entertained during the summer months. With stunning beaches, some of the best estuary fishing in the country, the Langeberg Mountains providing a beautiful backdrop and an unhurried peaceful ambiance, Witsand is well worth a visit.

Whale Watching...

 

Land-based whale watching from July to November. See up to 70 whales in the Bay at one time. Whale statistics have earned Witsand the title of "THE Whale Nursery of South Africa".
 

''THE WHALE INDUNA'' video was filmed in Witsand. With stunning footage of the whales, this makes a wonderful souvenir. Barry's are the distributors of the video and will gladly post you a copy once payment has been received. (Phone (028) 537 1717).

Breede River...

This is the widest river estuary in SA and reputedly has some the best estuary fishing in South Africa.

 

• River cruises up to the Bush Pub or Malgas with "Capt DUDE".

• The river boasts an abundance of birdlife and is home of the Big Cob.

• Pansy snorkeling is done over the sand banks before low tide.

• Kite Boarding - wind pumps in summer in the afternoons.

• Canoeing - great expanse of water at your fingertips, a tricky challenge on windy days.

Land Activities...

  

• Horseriding - over the dunes onto the beach and along the river.

• Ostrich farms - visit a working free range ostrich farm.

• Quadbiking - over the dunes, between the fynbos and milkwoods.

• Cycling routes - safe tarred roads or the mountain biking option on good gravel roads through beautiful scenic farmlands.

• 4x4 Trails - great tracks to enjoy with your family. Stunning views of whales in season.

• De Hoop nature reserve just over an hours' drive away and well worth a visit

Hiking Trails...

• Puntjie Walk: - ± 15 km.

• Moodies Well Walk: - 8 or 12 km.

• Moddergat Walk: - ± 4 km.

• Skuitbaai Walk: - ± 3 km.

• Infanta Walk: - ± 5 km

On other side of Breede River.

• Breede River Mouth Walk: - ± 6km.

• River View Walk - ± 2.5 km

On tar.

Historical Interest...

• Barry Memorial Church - Port Beaufort built in 1859 by the Barry family.

• Meerlust - a wonderful example of the architecture of yesteryear.

• Woolshed - the first wool shed built in SA.

• 'The Kraaltjie' - harbour built by the Barry family in the 18th century.

Cultural Interest...

"Vondeling" children's choir is made up of children attending the small farm school near Witsand/ Port Beaufort. They have been blessed with beautiful voices and love singing and playing the recorder. They are available to sing to tourists during the school term, between 9 and 12 daily by prior arrangement.

Restaurants...

One on the beach, one on the river, and one in the dunes.

Attractions at Witsand...

 

Witsand. Cross the 4-way stop and find the Lodge (+/- 200m down) on the bank of the river on your left

Natural Attractions

• Stunning sunsets over the Breede River.

• Sunrises over the ocean - the best time of the day!

• Beaches are clean and beautiful, with a tidal pool.

• Interesting rock pools for the kiddies to swim in.

• Flocks of Blue Cranes - South Africa's National bird.

• Black Oystercatchers - breeding area for this endangered species.

 

Facilities

Private harbor, fishing charters, river eco - cruises, whale watching (only from the shore) and a swimming pool. Guests can go fishing, the restaurant will clean, cook or freeze all fish you have caught. A boat trip can be arranged with the Pili Pili Restaurant or any other charter. A picnic is always nice on the sandy banks of the river.

A little paradise on South Africa's largest tidal river. Lovely beach and rock, surf, deep sea and Estuary fishing.

Area Information

Protected whale nursery,floral, game, marine and avian reserves.

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