On the shores of Marcus Bay, this area includes Kassiesbaai, a small fishing village characterised by limewashed and thatched houses that add to the area’s beauty, attracting artists and nature photographers.
Roman Beach in Arniston, the main swimming beach along the Whale Coast. Image by Ondela Mlandu
Arniston’s golden beaches, rolling sand dunes and intensely blue sea are a treat to explore, even if you only have a weekend to spare.
Picture: Sourced
Start your time in Arniston by strolling on the sandy beach and taking a dip in the ocean before exploring the Waenhuiskrans Cave.
Waenhuiskrans, as the area is known, translates to ‘wagon house cliff’ for its large sea cave. Two stories explain the possible origins of this name. The first is that the cave resembles the structures used by settlers to house their oxen and wagons, and the second is that the cave that hugs the imposing cliffs is so great that you can turn a wagon and an entire span of oxen around inside it. Whatever the reason, one certainty is that once inside the cave, you’ll witness some of the most magnificent ocean views you’ve ever seen. However, be warned that you can only visit during low tide, so check the tide schedule before heading out.
Picture: Sourced
Having worked up an appetite, visit the Arniston Spa Hotel for a bite. They have two restaurants with menus highlighting the area’s ‘fresh, local sea fare’. Try the prawn and coconut salad or salt and pepper squid at their Bistro Restaurant to help power you until dinnertime.
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A short walk along the beach from the Arniston Spa Hotel, discover the wreck of the Arniston Transport, which sank in the area back in 1815 en route to England from Ceylon via Cape Town. Only a few pieces of wood from the wreck remain on the beach, but a monument in honour of the 378 passengers who lost their lives overlooks the site.
Check out Willene’s Art and Crafts Restaurant, another excellent spot for local cuisine. Operating from one of the traditional fishing cottages (House number C26, Kassiesbaai), it began as a place where you could purchase local crafts and dishes. Now, it’s a home-based restaurant serving local cuisine, including fish pie, mussels, bobotie, pickled fish, fish cakes, freshly baked bread, and more. Enjoy your meal while taking in the ocean views from their outdoor seating area – you’ll thank us later.
While you’re there, take in this 200-year-old fishing village’s beauty. The families of those who first established the area have lovingly maintained it, and it has become somewhat of an Instagrammer’s dream spot.
Picture: Sourced
If you have time, drive to the two nature reserves flanking the area. De Hoop Nature Reserve is home to nearly 100 aquatic bird species and De Mond Nature Reserve. Less than 30 minutes from Arniston, the reserve offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities and a lagoon where you can sit and relax while taking in the peaceful surroundings. If you’re keen on a hike, there are two routes to choose from. The 7 km Sterna Trail takes approximately two hours to complete, and those feeling extra adventurous can cross the swaying wood-and-cable suspension bridge on the circular trail. Pay to enter at the reserve office or via CapeNature Central Reservations.
Picture: Sourced
Wind down your stay the same way you started by strolling along one of the area’s many beaches as you appreciate the sunset over this little slice of heaven.
This article was written by Megan Paulse for Getaway’s November 2023 print edition. Find us on shelves for more!
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