Stilbaai is far enough from Cape Town to feel like you’re getting away from it all, but close enough to avoid that ‘Are we there yet?’ feeling. This holiday town on the Cape South Coast is known for its water sports, beautiful beaches and crazy party scene during the holidays. It's one of my most-visited weekend spots (probably because most of my friends surf) and we always have a blast.
What’s supposed to be a three-and-a-half hour drive from Cape Town on the N2 can easily turn into a five-hour hop-on-hop- off expedition as you enjoy the winding route and farm stalls along the way. We always make a point of stopping at the Shell Garage at Riviersonderend to try to win a teddy at one of those claw machines. One burger pie and coffee to go, and we're off again.
Anticipation builds as you take on the last uphill on the R305 that culminates in gorgeous views of the valley with glimpses of the Goukou River as it makes its way through Stilbaai to the Indian Ocean. But the real fun starts once you enter the town, unpack the car and head for the water.
Here are a few of the things that will keep you busy in Stilbaai.
Surfers won’t be disappointed by the right-hand point break close to the harbour. If that’s not to your liking, head to the village of Jongensfontein for great surfing (it can be accessed only from Stilbaai’s western side).
Hike or even cycle along the coast from Stilbaai to Jongensfontein and enjoy exquisite views. Take a walk in one of the three nature reserves: Pauline Bohnen, Geelkrans and Skulpiesbaai.
You can canoe, kayak, fish or water ski on the Goukou River, which is navigable for 15 kilometres. If you’re daring enough to brave the cold and strong current, you can plunge in for a swim. From the beach or one of the nature reserves, you’ll have great views of the frolicking whales in the Indian Ocean between July and November.
Feed the eels: At the tourism office at 11h00 daily (except on Sundays), watch tame eels being fed or feed them yourself at R10 a person (raw chicken livers provided). Tel 028-754- 2602, email [email protected].
The Blue Flag main beach, Lappiesbaai, stretches for kilometres on end. Have a picnic, take a long stroll or people-watch in December.
Stilbaai Golf Club is a nine-hole course with ocean views from every tee. Tel 028-754- 2625, email info@stilbaaigolf. co.za
Visit the ancient fish traps, which are visible at low tide. They were originally built by the Khoisan about 3000 years ago and are still used by Stilbaai fishermen. Most are half moon-shaped, vary in size and each has its own name. There’s Alleroudste (Oldest), Niksvanger (Nothing-catcher) and Wonder- werk (Miracle), among others. For info, tel 028-754-2602, email [email protected].
Soete Inval Botanical Garden in Melkhoutfontein has a flower display from July to October and a craft centre. Tel 028-754-2362.
One of the town’s national monuments, the Palinggat homestead, houses the tourism office. Visit it for information on the town’s colourful history and activities in the area. Jagersbosch is the other historic building in Stilbaai. Tel 028-754-2602, email [email protected]
Don’t miss the annual touch rugby tournament on 26 December, when thousands of revellers descend on the town to watch touchies and have a jol on the river’s main beach. Afterwards, they head to Puffies and 3 Ankers Disco, where big city DJs play till the sun rises.
Where to stay
My favourite spot : The Hold All, on the town’s main beach, can accommodate 20 guests comfortably and has a plunge pool. It's a great spot for my friends and I because we're always a big group. From R2 000 a night (low season) for the house. Tel 084-337- 1601, email [email protected].
Another great one : Stone House Lodge is a large farmhouse that sleeps 12 people. From R350 a person a night. Tel 083-270-9345
