Elands Bay, Western Cape Province

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Bobbejaan Mountain lies this hotspot for surfers around the world. Elands Bay is 95 km northwest of Piketberg and 70km from Velddrif and this is where the magnificent Verlorenvlei, a natural marsh and sanctuary for 240 bird species, flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The bay is a prime whale and dolphin viewing venue between July and September when migrating Southern Right whales and Heaviside Dolphins can be seen in large numbers. Throughout the year, playful dolphins can be seen ‘surfing the waves’ and, on occasion, Orcas (Killer Whales) can also be seen. The Bobbejaan Mountain cliffs project into the sea at Baboon Point and a large rock shelter in the cliff is adorned with primitive San paintings. Excavations at a rock shelter in the cliffs indicate habitation by man 15 000 years ago. Elands Bay Cave is a rock art site dating back 10 000 years. The mild weather ensures year-round outdoor activities, walks and hikes, mountain-biking, mountaineering and 4x4 trails, rubber-ducking, surfing, horse-riding, fishing and birding – and more! Pristine sand dunes, with great picnic spots and a caravan park.