Local guide
St Helena Bay is one of very few bays on the planet where you can watch the sun rise and set over the same water. Here's how we'd spend a week.
The friendliest local watering hole in the bay. Ice-cold draught, sundowners on the deck and sunsets that do most of the talking. Snacks and peanuts on the bar, but come for the drinks and the view — our first stop after a day on the water.
Sheltered, swimmable and often completely empty. Perfect for long barefoot walks, kayaking and rock-pool hunting with the kids.
Marking the spot where Vasco da Gama first set foot on South African soil in 1497, with a sundial and sweeping views over the bay.
Granite boulders, spring flowers and the last manned lighthouse in South Africa. Pack a picnic and stay for sunset at Tietiesbaai.
St Helena Bay is a natural nursery. Southern right whales visit between July and November, and dolphin pods cruise past year-round.
An easy-going riverside round in Velddrif, followed by bokkoms and oysters on the way home.
Charter a boat from the harbour, dive the kelp forests, or drop a line from the rocks. Kayaks are available at the villa by prior arrangement.
Whitewashed fishermen's cottages, world-class seafood restaurants and one of the prettiest stretches of coastline in the country.
Straight-line distances from the villa's front door at 6 Starfish Close.
September to April is classic beach weather on the West Coast — warm, dry and long in the evenings. August to October brings the wildflower season, when the veld between Velddrif and Paternoster turns solid colour. July to November is southern right whale season, and you can often watch them from the patio. Winter is quiet, moody and made for the fireplace and the hot tub.
