5 Western Cape seaside towns to visit this long weekend

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Looking to dodge the crowds and find somewhere fresh to breathe in ocean air this long weekend? These five seaside towns combine beauty, personality, and enough variety to keep everyone happy – whether you’re chasing waves, peace and quiet, or a decent cappuccino by the sea…

1. Yzerfontein, Western Cape

Quiet, clean, and often overlooked, Yzerfontein has a long stretch of 16 Mile Beach and a strong sense of stillness. It’s a top pick if you’re after a peaceful reset. Bring a book, a good playlist, and settle in for some real downtime. Bonus: it’s under 90 minutes from Cape Town.

Yzerfontein, Western Cape. Image: canva

2. Betty’s Bay

Wild and windblown, this seaside town is where mountains crash into sea. Home to the Stony Point Penguin Colony, it’s quieter than nearby Hermanus but no less stunning. Hike the Harold Porter Botanical Garden, then head to the beach for a cold swim and some of the clearest stargazing around.

3. Hermanus, Western Cape

Best known for whale watching, Hermanus also delivers big on coastal trails, cliff views, and a solid food scene. Visit this seaside town during whale season (now!) and you can spot southern rights from the shore. Even off-season, the fynbos-covered hills and ocean breeze are worth the trip.

4. Mossel Bay

Technically the start of the Garden Route, Mossel Bay is more than a stopover – it’s a mix of history, surf, and family-friendly beaches. The Diaz Museum brings in the heritage, while Santos Beach and The Point offer great swimming and surf spots. Grab fish and chips, then watch the sun set from a seaside bench.

5. Gansbaai, Western Cape

Best known for shark cage diving, Gansbaai has more to offer than thrills. The coastline is raw and wild, and De Kelders (next door) has some of the best whale watching on land. This seaside town has caves to explore, fynbos walks to take, and a strong local feel that hasn’t been lost to tourism.