Struisbaai is a tranquil seaside escape situated along the southern coast of South Africa, offering a range of activities for ocean lovers, travellers and adventure seekers. Known for its picturesque landscapes and small-town atmosphere, Struisbaai is located near the southernmost tip of Africa, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the region’s iconic landmarks.
Where is it?
Struisbaai is situated approximately 220 kilometres (137 miles) southeast of Cape Town, making it easily accessible for a day trip or a relaxing getaway. The drive to Struisbaai takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car, offering scenic views of the Overberg region and charming Western Cape countryside.
When to Visit?
The climate in Struisbaai is influenced by the surrounding ocean, providing cool, refreshing summers and mild winters. The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer is perfect for beach activities and hiking trails, while winter offers a cozy seaside atmosphere and incredible opportunities for whale watching.
1. Visit Struisbaai Beach
Spend a day relaxing on the expansive Blue Flag beach at Struisbaai. With its white sands and clear waters, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and family fun under the sun. Famous for being the longest natural beach in the Southern Hemisphere, the Struisbaai beach stretches along the coastline for 14 kilometres towards Arniston.
2. Explore Struisbaai Harbour’s Water Activities
Visit the Struisbaai Harbour, where colourful fishing boats line the docks and local fishing charters, which form part of Struisbaai’s historic fishing community, can be seen bringing in their daily catch. Take in the bustling atmosphere, watch the fishermen at work, enjoy an ice-cream by the pier, rent a kayak, look for stingrays, tan under the sun, walk to the mini light house at the end of the pier, swim in the shallow turquoise waters, and simply have fun at the Struisbaai harbour waterfront.
3. Look Out For Struisbaai’s Resident Stingrays
The shallow waters around Struisbaai are home to a population of Southern Stingrays, which can often be seen gliding gracefully along the shoreline. These gentle creatures make for an exciting encounter, and guests at the Struisbaai Harbour can spot Parrie the stingray, who frequents the pier looking for fish scraps.
Also Read: Things To Do In Cape Agulhas
4. Visit the Suiderstrand Nature Reserve
The Suiderstrand Nature Reserve is a stunning coastal reserve located near Struisbaai. Home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including fynbos wildflowers, coastal birds, small mammals and reptiles, Suiderstrand is a must-visit attraction for its stunning scenery and surprising number of historical sites, including the remains of a whaling station.
5. Explore Spookdraai (Ghost Corner)
You might be surprised to see a few ‘ghost’ signposts as you drive through Struisbaai and Cape Agulhas. Ghost Corner, located along the Spookdraai hiking trail, is a remote and rugged stretch of coastline known for its shipwrecks and dramatic scenery. The area is a popular spot for hikers, supernatural enthusiasts, and those looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Struisbaai coastal region.
Read More: The Ghost of Spookdraai
6. Go Fishing Where the Two Oceans Meet
Once a small fishing village, Struisbaai has become one of South Africa’s best-kept ‘secret fishing spots’ for weekend trips and seasonal fishing events close to Cape Town. Popular with sports fishermen, deep sea fishermen and recreational coastal anglers, Struisbaai is located along the unique convergence of the Atlantic and Indian ocean currents.
The nutrient rich ocean currents and shallow Agulhas Bank are what make the Struisbaai region a top fishing destination for Skipjack Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Leerfish (Garrick), Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Bonito, and even Black Marlin. Anglers are also invited to cast their lines and try their luck at catching a variety of fish species, including Geelbek, Kob, and Yellowtail.
Read More: Struisbaai Fishing Calendar
7. Enjoy Fresh Seafood & Sushi at Local Restaurants
It doesn’t get more fresh than this! Savour the flavours of the sea by dining at Struisbaai’s local seafood restaurants and sushi bars — or speak to one of the Struisbaai fishermen to buy some fresh caught Snoek or Tuna and fire up a famous South African fish braai. Enjoy fresh mussels, west coast oysters, expertly-prepared sushi, and other delicious seafood dishes overlooking incredible views of the two oceans.
8. Learn to Surf or SUP Board in Struisbaai
Struisbaai’s coastline has consistent waves and long stretches of beach, making it an ideal spot to learn to surf. Several surf schools in the area provide lessons and surfboard or wetsuit rentals for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Although the Struisbaai coastline is situated along the Indian ocean convergence, the nearby cold Atlantic current means wetsuits are always advised (and necessary in the winter) when navigating the Western Cape’s ocean waters.
9. Visit the Southernmost Tip of Africa
The Southernmost Point of Africa, located in Cape Agulhas, is only a short 10 minute drive from Struisbaai. A must-visit attraction when visiting South Africa’s southernmost shoreline, travellers from all over the world come to Struisbaai and L’Agulhas to visit the point of Africa and stand at the ‘Tip of Africa’ monument — the official geographic line where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet.
Read more: The Southernmost Tip of Africa
9. Stay Overnight in Quaint Seaside Accommodation
Extend your stay in Struisbaai and sleep where the two oceans meet. Choose from one of the many locally-owned accommodation options, cottages and quaint seaside guesthouses, offering guests a cozy and charming atmosphere year-round. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to the beauty of Africa’s southernmost coastline.
See More: Kob Cottage
