Things to do in the Overberg

December 8, 2024

A brief summary of things to do in and around Arniston and the Overberg…

What to do in the Overberg. Fine Art Photography by South African Nature Photographer Ramon Fritz

SWIMMING AND SURFING

Thanks to the warm Mozambique current, Arniston is blessed with considerably warmer waters than Cape Town or even nearby Hermanus. The white sands and clear water are stunning. Roman Beach offers both swimming and surfing and great for the kids at low tide.

FISHING AND DIVING

Arniston offers some of the best fishing in the region. From deep-sea fishing to rock and surf angling for shallow-water feeders. there is excellent spear fishing too. If you want to know what bait to use and where and when to go, you’re probably best off speaking to a local. On a calm day, the gullies and rock pools offer fascinating snorkelling while serious divers can explore the numerous wrecks off Saxon Reef.

Deep-sea fishing trips can be arranged from Struisbaai; price includes rods, tackle, bait and all the fish you can catch. Often when drawing into harbour, there is a fisherman or two hanging around who will clean your fish for a nominal fee.

You can also see 'rays' swimming around the harbour.

Tour Struisbaai with Willie Explore

PICNIC AT DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE

A visit to De Hoop Nature Reserve is highly recommended. The coastal stretch within the reserve at 'Koppie Allen' is unique. The Southern Right Whales come here to breed each year between May and November congregating in substantial numbers off this coast providing excellent opportunities for whale-watching. A day picnicking at De Hoop is a memory that will last forever.

HISTORICAL SIGHTS

Kassiesbaai as mentioned in my other blogs, is Arniston’s major historical attraction and a great place to explore on foot, especially if you take time to speak with the locals. The monument of the shipwreck, Arniston Transport, is accessible via a 4km walk along the beach — well worth it.

A whitewashed, thatch-roof church hall called Minus is one of Arniston’s most intriguing buildings. Built in 1933, the Latin word 'minus' means 'gift'. Minus is owned by the Bredasdorp Dutch Reformed Church but has not been used for regular services for some time. It is however, used for weddings, public meetings and church bazaars.

EXPLORING ON FOOT

You can quite easily spend a week in Arniston without the need to drive. Everything (except a supermarket) is within walking distance. there’s hardly any traffic and apart from the staggering dunes, it’s all relatively flat. The craggy coastline is fascinating, the beach towards De Hoop Nature Reserve is perfect for unhurried contemplation and the coast towards De Mond is steeped in history. Always take sunscreen, head wear and water with you on longer walks and something warm as the weather can turn.

The Harbour

Watch the boats come in and a good opportunity for photography.

Kassiesbaai

The local fishing village, great for a stroll and welcomes artists and photographers.

The Monument

If you walk through Kassiesbaai and continue along the beach for 4km, you will come across the monument of the shipwrecked Arniston Transport. It is a beautiful walk on an unspoilt beach.

Roman Beach

Great beach for swimming reached by following the road leading to Waenhuiskrans cave or by beach at low tide. The water is shallow and calm making it a great place for children. Has a great surf break further out ideal for beginners or advanced surfers and bodyboarders. The surrounding sand dunes are popular for dune-boarding and exploring.

Waenhuiskrans Cave

This spectacular cave is a must for all visitors to Arniston. It can only be accessed at low tide and is just under 2km along the road and cliff tops… or you can drive to the car park at Roman Beach and walk from there. The rocks near the caves are slippery, so wear suitable shoes.

The Baken

Built around 1900 and a historical landmark, Struispunt Beacon or known locally as 'Baken' is a concrete obelisk. It is placed there as a warning to sailors of perils lying undersea from Die Rift (Saxon Reef), an archipelago of submerged rocks that extends three miles out to sea and has claimed at least 14 ships. Walking over the dunes and down to the beach, you can also view the ancient fish traps in the rock pools at low tide.

De Mond Nature Reserve

A long hike of 14km for the moderately fit along the beach at low tide toward De Mond Nature Reserve so pack accordingly. It can be walked from North or South and requires transport either to or from De Mond. The Arniston Hotel can assist with a lift if required.

Galjoengat

A two-hour circular walk through fynbos along a beaten track brings you to Galjoengat. Take a backpack with refreshments.