Destination of the Day: Hout Bay

You will find yourself staring out to sea when you arrive in Hout Bay. The views in this sociable village are mesmerizing as Hout Bay is set in a fold of sea-lapped mountains that look out across the Atlantic Ocean. The town is presided over by the Sentinel – guardian of Hout Bay’s treasures. Hout Bay, although part of Cape Town, has a character of an independent community.

The Beach: Hout Bay beach spans from the beginning of Chapman’s Peak Drive following the curve of the bay to the picturesque Hout Bay Harbour. The beach is great for walking and horse riding. There are special times allocated for riding and for walking your dogs – but not strictly adhered to! The Chapman’s Peak end of the beach is better for sunbathing and the waves are usually fairly gentle for swimming. The beach is a very popular launching spot for sea kayaks. When the wind blows, sunbathers can shelter next to the dunes and still enjoy a spectacular view of the bay, where dolphins and whales are a common sight.

The Harbour: The Hout Bay Harbour is a hive of activity as the fishing boats, yachts and charter boats leave and enter the harbour all day. A craft market on the water's edge, the Kraal Kraft curio shop, restaurants and the seagulls provide further entertainment for visitors and locals alike.

Chapman’s Peak Drive: Chapman’s Peak Drive winds it way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Situated on the Atlantic Coast, at the south-western tip of South Africa, it is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views with many areas along the route where you can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic. Officially opened on 6 may 1922 by the Governer General of the Union of South Africa. Commissioned by the Administrator of the Cape Sir Frederic de Waal. There are 2 historic forts on Chapmans Peak Drive - East and West Forts which were built to protect the harbour.

Who was Chapman? John Chapman was the ship’s mate of the British ship “consent” – landed on Hout Bay beach in 1607 in a small boat. He was checking for a safe anchorage and that fresh water was available. He returned to his ship and the maps at the time called Hout Bay “Chapman’s Chaunce” until Jan van Riebeech arrived!

Duiker Island: is an island off Hout Bay near Cape Town South Africa. It is 77 by 95meters in size, with an area of about 0.4 hectare. The island is renowned for its marine wildlife such as birds and fur seal. Boat trips are available to Duiker Island for a close up experience with these entertaining creatures. The number of seals vary throughout the year but there are usually between 1000 – 8000 seals, in winter the number of seals decreases.

Cape Fur Seals: The Cape Fur Seals are a fascinating marine mammal that is curious and playful enough to approach divers and groups will often put on a display of underwater “hydrobatics” and make mock charges at divers before swerving away at the last moment. They live in colonies which can range from a few hundred individuals, such as the one at Partridge Point, to huge colonies like Seal Island in False Bay or Duiker Island off the Sentinel in Hout Bay – where they can number in the tens of thousands. It can be lots of fun to dive or snorkel with the seals, as they often loll at the surface, warming their flippers in the sun or congregating in groups waiting to head out to sea to hunt for fish. They also make great photographic subjects – if you are quick enough!
Snorkel with seals: Swim with the seals and watch them dart around gracefully in the waters below and around you. Interact with these entertaining and curious animals in this unique experience. No experience required.

Dungeons – Surfing: Dungeons, the monster that sleeps beneath the cliffs of the Sentinel at the mouth of Hout Bay on the Cape Peninsula. The Dungeons reef, the first sea bottom that the ocean swells hit on their path shore-wards, has the ability to produce the biggest waves in Africa. The swells, generated across the South Atlantic Ocean, hit the Dungeon Reefs and rear up into giant right-hand breaking waves for brave souls to attempt to ride. Apart from the enormous waves, a few other elements to add to the mix of bravery needed to tackle Dungeons: ice-cold water, thick undulating kelp beds that cover the inside waters, and abundant sea life - including a few sharks that prey on the local seal colony, this occurs mostly in autumn & winter.

Whales are common during whale season (May – November). There are mostly Southern Right whales but you may see Brydes whales and Humpback whales. It is not uncommon to see Bottle nose dolphins.

Leopard Rock: This bronze statue of a leopard was placed on its rocky pedestal in March 1963, a gift from Ivan Milford Barbeton (a local sculptor). The bronze leopard is in memory of the last leopard sited in the area in 1930.

The Sentinel: Its most iconic peak, aptly known as The Sentinel, looks out to sea and stands guard over the bay, as gentle aqua waves loll on to a white beach that dazzles in the sun. A blanket of green stretches its way inland, rising into the valley, now hugged by expensive real estate on either side.

World of Birds is the largest bird park in Africa and one of the few large bird parks in the World. Over 3 000 birds (and small animals) of 400 different species are uniquely presented in more than 100 spacious landscaped walk through aviaries, allowing you the most intimate closeness with nature. The Squirrel monkey enclosure one of the most popular exhibits as the monkeys clamber all over the visitors.

Fishing: Fishing Charters in Hout Bay offer private, corporate and incentive driven packages incorporating Deep Sea Fishing, Game Fishing and Fly Fishing by experienced skippers and guides using quality tackle and well appointed boats.

Hiking: Hout Bay lies in a valley surrounded by mountains leading out to the sea. If it's nature you are looking for... look no further! Judas Peak is the 12th apostle…that is the 12th peak in the Twelve Apostle Mountain range. Judas Peak is the second highest peak in Hout Bay. Klein Leeukoppie: This experience is possible and accessible to most. There is some rock climbing involved but the longest drop is only 5m. Captains Peak is between Karbonkelberg and Little Lion's head in Hout Bay. The hike starts along the same road as the hike to the old radar station at the summit of Karbonkelberg. Orange Kloof Nature Reserve: It is a totally unique experience walking through natural Milkwood forests with Protea and an abundance of amazing – permits required but try and do this hike as part of the Hoerikwaggo Trail with an overnight stay at the Orangekloof Tented Camp.

The Hout Bay Gallery, established in 1984, is a friendly and energetic art gallery situated in the beautiful seaside town of Hout Bay (20 minutes drive from Cape Town city centre and Table Mountain). The Hout Bay Gallery specializes in the work of South African artists. Currently exhibiting in the gallery are the works of local artists David Kuijers, Glen Tong, Mihcelle Davidson, Vanessa Berlein, Sarah Danes Jarrett, Richard Scott, Russell Travers, Koos De Wet, Shirley Harris and many more. Art works include paintings, photography, etchings, drawings and sculptures and furniture

Sembach Art Gallery founded in 1995, specialises in contemporary art drawn from the South African region, in particular the artistic community around the western cape. Comprehensive range of art, paintings in different media to stone and bronze sculptures and ceramics. Family run gallery

Hout bay Museum: It provides a fascinating record of how the town has developed over the centuries, from prehistoric times to the bustling fishing village it is today. Few architectural gems remain in town, but the Cape Dutch homestead of Kronendal on Main Road is worth a look. Built in 1800 on Hout Bay’s original farmlands, it’s the only surviving example of an H-plan house on the whole of the Cape Peninsula.

SA Fisheries Museum: This museum has closed.

Imizama Yethu: The township of Imizamo Yethu is situated in the picturesque seaside suburb of Hout Bay in Cape Town. Hout Bay is like a microcosm of South Africa, with a wealthy, mainly white community, living alongside the black community in Imizamo Yethu, and so called ‘coloured’ community in the township of Hangklip near the harbour. Imizamo Yethu has a population of roughly 14,000 residents, who are mainly Xhosa speaking. The informal settlement was established in the early 1990s when 450 families who had been squatting in shacks around Hout Bay were moved to this new area on the side of a mountain overlooking the harbour. You can take a walking township tour – some of the highlights include a visit to a Witchdoctor, seeing traditional beer being made ( and you can taste it ), Isiko Lobomi craft skill training center ( some beautiful mosaic work on sale ) the local library and the tavern.

Shopping There are a few interesting shopping opportunities along the main road, but a visit to the Sunday craft market on the common lies at the top of the Hout Bay retail experience. Held every weekend between 9 am and 4 pm, the market buzzes with stalls selling anything from wind-chimes to jewellery and home-made delicacies, while locals stand around chatting and drinking coffee. Other items that can be purchased are clothing, knitwear, leather work, iron and steel work, African curious and wire work, basket work, handmade soaps and toiletries, woodwork, pottery and ceramics, needlework, glass work, mirrors, jewelry, paintings, puppets, candlewicking and braunmalerie, shell ware, hammocks, plants and cacti, dried fruit and nuts, children’s toys/games plus much more.

Mainstream Mall in Hout Bay opened in 2006 and is a good centre to get local mementos or some of the latest fashions. It has a trendy new feel to it with many boutiques offering unique products and services. To compliment these, the centre also has it's anchor stores such as Woolworths, Clicks and CNA for you to refill the fridge, stock up on toiletries or get some reading material while enjoying your stay in Hout Bay. The centre is located just on the way towards Chapman's Peak Drive and close to the beach.

Kirikara on Main Road sells non-touristy handcrafted African art and is a good place to stock up on contemporary ceramics, carvings and hand-woven rugs.
Nearby Ethno is great for African-style jewellery and a wide array of wooden decor items. Rockchic For exquisite and unique trinkets made out of semi-precious stones, crystals, quartz and silver. Potter’s Yard is a peaceful little nursery where you can pick up proteas, lavender bushes, herbs and rustic pottery. Wander through to the back for the massive wood carvings out of tree trunks. Nap in the Mainstream Centre is a chic decor shop, serene in its contemporary palette of white, silver and grey. Browse through beautiful tableware, lamps, candles, mohair blankets and bathroom accessories, and sit down with a caffè latte in the coffee shop afterwards. They also sell delicious paninis and indulgent cakes – perfect for placating post-retail appetites!

T-Bag Designs: is a small company, situated in Hout Bay, near Cape Town in Unit 4 at the Kronendal Office Park on Main Road. They provide employment for a small group of previously unemployed residents from Imizama Yethu, T-Bag Designs are created from an every day product, namely used t-bags collected both locally and abroad and the team make stationery, candle holders and coasters (amongst other items) from recycled tea bags!

Mariners Wharf: This is the first harbourfront emporium in Africa and the Southern Hemisphere. Conceptualised and built by Hout Bay's own Stanley Dorman, it continues to grow under his, wife Pam's, and sons Garth and Anton's watchful eyes. Its restaurants, shops and markets exude a maritime ambience as is nowhere else to be found. Mariner's Wharf is a wonderful place, a place where the famous and locals, jetsetters and tourists rub shoulders with venerable fishing captains and old salts. Indeed, well worth a visit! They now have a sushi bar and on site bakery for freshly baked goods.

Mariners Chest: Shells by the thousand, skipper's caps, beach clothing, hand-made gifts and sea-art curios are on sale here; plus whacky Republic of Hout Bay passports with a boatload of special offers. Many of the items are themed to Hout Bay's harbourside ambience and exude memories of a wonderful place, nowhere else to be found.

Pearls in the Oyster: Choose an oyster guaranteed to contain a beautiful pearl inside. Then, if you so wish, watch it set to jewellery of your own choice, from the extensive range on offer.

The Shipwreck Shop: Its nautical artifacts and antiques, books, paintings, brassware, scrimshaw, scripophilly and shipwreck memorabilia are a collector's dream, and an inspirational source for designers bedecking bars and boardrooms. With over 20 000 different items in stock, it is the largest shop of its kind, certainly in Southern Africa.

Wine & Liquor Locker: Built into the hull of the Kingfisher, a discerning range of estate wine, beer and liqueurs is offered. A must is the Wharf's own wine in a fish-shaped bottle, a truly wonderful souvenir or gift. Due to its unique appeal the Locker was the first South African outlet to be licenced for seven-day-a-week trading

Clay Café: The clay café makes for a memorable day of creativity and recreation for children and parents alike. Choose from a vast array of unfired bisque and a wide selection of colourful paints to create crockery that is both personal and completely unique. Spend a leisurely day painting in a relaxed environment with our friendly staff at hand to assist you with any painting techniques that you might wish to make use of. A day at the Clay Cafe makes an ideal children’s birthday party and school outing venue. Each child is given the chance to indulge in their own personal masterpiece, and each parent is given the golden opportunity to sit back and enjoy, leaving all the mess and fuss to us! A garden and playground await the children outside so that when they are finished painting, there is still plenty to explore. Booking is essential for groups – be it children’s parties, Kitchen teas or corporate team building.

Restaurants:
Chapmans Peak Hotel Restaurant: Nestled at the foot of the picturesque Chapmans Peak Drive lies the The Chapmans Peak Hotel Restaurant regarded as a local institution, established over 30 years ago. They have become world famous for their calamari but do try the Portuguese steaks as well!

Mariner's Wharf and Wharfside Grill: This world renowned restaurant offers excellent seafood with amazing views of the bay and Chapman's Peak. An absolute must if you are after a succulent crayfish or two!

The Lookout Deck: Great views of Hout Bay Harbour, the entrance is like walking into your holiday house from the beach with comfortable couches and wooden coffee tables. Diners can choose between the casual wooden deck area that seats around 260 people, with bench tables & attractive parasols plus outdoor heaters and large glass window panels, which provide additional comfort from the cool sea breezes; or the modern up market feel of the inside dining area, with comfortable upholstered chairs and well appointed tables with linen and overlays, the inside area seats around 60 people. The restaurants extensive menu comprises of premier seafood, freshly caught line fish caught daily by the local fishermen, Cape Rock Lobster, succulent LM prawns, fresh black mussels picked from the rocks of the local shores, legendary tender calamari steaks, Yellow fin tuna steaks and live oysters, as well as the finest cuts of local A-grade meats. There is also a great selection of appetizing salads, lighter snack baskets for the not so hungry, wood fired pizzas and hearty breakfasts. The restaurant is the ideal setting to enjoy sensational sundowners and cocktails whilst listening to local, live music on selected nights.

Dinner at Mandela’s: Dinner @ Mandela’s is an evening cultural experience which allows visitors to South Africa to mingle with the local residents of Imizama Yethu (Mandela Park Township) in Hout Bay. It is an opportunity for visitors to gain a better understanding of the lifestyle and culture of the residents and to have a fun filled evening of African Music and Dance and partying with the locals. Simultaneously, Dinner @ Mandela’s affords the locals an opportunity to uplift their lives, as full support is given to the township in terms of services required – the local tavern, support for local choirs and dancers and food. Our aim in the future is to be able to develop other enterprises surrounding Dinner @ Mandela’s which will provide further upliftment to the people in the Mandela Park Township.

Papino’s: is a cosy family restaurant situated in Earl Street with a varied menu and wood fired pizzas

Comida: A modern and stylish restaurant that offers contemporary fusion cuisine and fashionable thin crust pizzas

Massimo's Pizza Club: @ Scarecrows Experience a truly unique way of eating unlimited fantastic pizza, in the company of friends. In one evening, and for a set price, you can enjoy a starter, share as many wood-fired, thin based.

Pakalolo cafe/bar: Carribean style restuarant/bar and live entertainment venue Pakalolo sits at the foot of Chapmans Peak drive. Bamboo and palm leaf decor, with chillout vibes and spicey Mexican cuisine.

Kitima: situated in the old Kronendal building offers Oriental elegance and hospitality. They offer authentic Asian cuisine, prepared by 5 star Thai chefs. Thai cuisine is known for its enthusiastic use of fresh herbs and spices and is considered by many to be among the best in the world. It is a blend of Asian and European influences created through century's of trade between continents harmoniously combined into something uniquely Thai. Try the Dim Sum or book early for the Sunday buffet were you can try everything!

Pure: Situated in Hout Bay Manor (built in 1871) is Pure restaurant - a decadent and sophisticated 5 star dining treat.

Dunes Restaurant: occupies a prime location on the beach front in Hout Bay with stunning views of Chapman's Peak, the Sentinel, and of course the beach. There is plenty of seating, for both drinking and dining and a playground for kids. It is a favourite spot for the locals to have their favourite cocktail as the sun goes down behind the mountains.

Deli Delish: Deli Delish provides soul food to satisfy everyone’s tastes, set in a warm and welcoming environment. The vibe is cool, classic and light, with a wrap around balcony that brings the outside in (but keeps the elements at bay). Furnishing an old house in classic white wicker, scattering lots of comfy cushions on the sofas, displaying mouth-watering food in the deli section and playing a sexy soundtrack certainly gets one in the mood to relax.

La Cuccina: La Cuccina was started seven years ago by George Torres & Marie Burger. After several years making food for Melissa’s Food Store and other restaurants, they decided it was time to start creating their own dream. Over the years they have become famous for the taste and quality of their food - with a distinctly European flavour on their daily buffets and the many cakes and tarts that come rolling out of the kitchen.

Pirates Pub & Grill: Steaks, burgers and ribs are the most popular dishes but if red meat is not your first choice, the Chicken and Bacon Florentino is a must. Pop into the cosy little pub adjacent to the restaurant, where you will find a diversity of people singing along to the music played by the various live bands frequenting the pub. Quiz nights are very popular as well.

Trattoria Luigi: Luigi has brought a “Touch of Naples” to Hout Bay and now: the new proprietor and previous manager of 7 years: singer and matre-d (who actually does cook now-and-then); Antonio Nero, would like to invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy our homely atmosphere and of course, the original authentic Italian fare that is produced using only the freshest of ingredients and always making sure high quality ingredients are used wherever possible.

Suikerbossie: has magnificent views overlooking the valley of Hout Bay with Chapman's Peak and the bay below. Flanked on the west by Llandudno beach, while Table Mountain forms the backdrop to the restaurant. A Sunday-must is tea and scones at Suikerbossie, a very popular restaurant and wedding venue in the fynbos on the hill overlooking the town.

The Workshop: claims to be the smallest (licensed) pub in Africa is serves as a good meeting place when the weather is good. The drinks are cheap and the local young folk enjoy meeting new people and will always talk to any new faces!

Accommodation: Find and book Hout Bay Accommodation - guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, hotels and self catering accommodation in Hout Bay.

IMAGES:
1. The Sentinel in Hout Bay - Google Images
2. Hout Bay from Chapmans Peak Drive view point - Photo Jeremy Jowell
3. Hout Bay Harbour - Google Images
4. Leopard Rock in Hout Bay - Google Images
5. Hout Bay Beach - Google Images