Gansbaai & Surrounds

The Beautiful Gansbaai

After coming face-to-face with the ocean’s greatest predator, make your cage diving trip even more memorable by exploring the rustic beauty of Gansbaai and its surrounds – one of the most unspoilt natural settings in South Africa.

Gansbaai has a world of attractions for the marine enthusiast and nature lover. Besides the thrill of diving with sharks, there are a number of sea and island activities that will inspire the sea-farer in everyone. For nature enthusiasts and beachcombers, Gansbaai has plenty of on-land activities that cater to couples and families alike.

Gansbaai is a unique and very popular destination on the Western Cape’s “Whale Coast”.The rugged and unspoilt landscape invites visitors to explore Gansbaai and its surrounds– from the white sands of Pearly Beach to the horse riding trails, and the exciting eco-tours offered by Marine Dynamics.

Situated almost halfway between Hermanus and Cape Agulhas, Gansbaai is both a must-see destination and a convenient starting point for travellers wanting to explore the Overberg region.

From the famous tourist town of Hermanus, known for its whale watching, to Cape Agulhas – the southernmost point in Africa – the coastal region of the Overberg offers entertaining day trips and a taste of life as it should be – relaxed, friendly and unspoilt.

Moving northward, you will discover the charming town of Stanford, nestled between some of the most picturesque nature reserves in the west coast region – the Walker Bay Nature Reserve is the largest of these and may offer nature lovers an entire day full of exploration and enjoyment.

Beyond Cape Agulhas

Visitors may explore the idyllic towns leading to Arniston – a beautiful coastal town that will transport you to a world of peace and tranquillity.

No trip to these parts would be complete without a drive to De Hoop Nature Reserve, a must-see for nature lovers. A meander up to the town of Bredasdorp will also provide a relaxing way to spend a few hours exploring the Cape Countryside.

Back in Gansbaai, there is a great variety of activities which cater to every age, budget and interest. If your cage diving experience inspires you to explore the seas a little more, take a boat trip with Dyer Island Cruises. Located off the coast of Gansbaai, Dyer Island is famous for its colony of African penguins.

As part of your cruise you will have the chance to spot whales as well as sharks – Gansbaai may be the only place on earth where this is possible! The Southern Right Whale departs in January, returning again in June, so the best time to take a whale-watching cruise is between July and December. After the thrill of diving with sharks, take in the splendour of the Southern Right Whale – known as the “gentle giant” of the west coast.

On land, Gansbaai offers nature lovers a number of scenic walking trails which showcase the town’s natural beauty and the unique Fynbos species which grow there. Horse riding is popular in Gansbaai and is a great activity for couples and families who would like to experience the landscape in a unique way.

If you’re more comfortable in a hotel room than on the high seas, Gansbaai has a variety of accommodation options that will suit your needs. Most of the lodges are located near the beach in De Kelders, where visitors may even spot a whale from time to time from the comfort of their rooms!