Spending some time at the sea is the dream for most people. When you live or work in the city it is not always possible. However, for the Capetonians, there are many options available. Staying in Cape Town CBD, you get to be within easy reach of many fabulous beach destinations. One of the beautiful weekend getaway options in the Cape, South Africa is the lovely Gordons Bay.
The big white “GB” letters on the mountain of Gordons Bay do not stand for the town’s name. The GB initials actually stand for General Botha. According to legend, General Botha was a ship that played an important role in the SA navy. However, the anchor on the mountainside was constructed in November 1949 by Senior Cadets of the SA Nautical College General Botha. It was built to identify the position of the college.
The best time to visit is actually May to July. Although it is a winter rainfall area, during this time you will miss the famous South-Easter wind, leaving you much more time to spend on the beach. Gordon’s bay is a year-round holiday destination and for outdoor activities, you can actually go any time of the year.
In and around Gordon’s Bay you’ll find a lot of outdoor activities:
There is definitely no shortage of restaurants and you can enjoy local fish and chips fresh from the sea or indulge in a waffle with fabulous toppings, enjoy a cozy fireplace in many of the restaurants during winter, or great outdoor seating in summer.
For a nice evening of dining out, you can visit Harbour Island.
This beautiful 22 km coastal road along the Hottentots Holland Mountain with fabulous sea views all along the way, is a definite must-do self-drive experience. Here you’ll find the beautiful Kogel Bay Resort located between Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els: A famous spot for surfing. Along the route, be on the watch out for dolphins and whales. Whales can be spotted from May to November.
We loved this little gem situated in Beach Road, right on Gordon’s Bay beachfront. The views were nice, the service excellent and the food simply delish. This family-friendly café serves the best waffles-with-a-view (savory or sweet) as well as pancakes with awesome fillings.
Check out their website: The Waffle Café or Facebook page.
The family-friendly main beach is beautiful and offers picturesque views of the town and surrounding mountains. It is the perfect combination of sea and mountain views. With a family restaurant situated right on the beach, it is the perfect place for families with kids, to spend a day or two.
However when mentioning Gordons Bay everyone immediately also refers to Bikini Beach: the spot where you’ll find the young at heart playing on the beach. A beautiful, small almost secluded beach area.
The nearest airport is Cape Town International (CPT). Car Rental is available at the airport.
The small village post office with its interesting tilework-map of False Bay, on the front entrance wall.
And then you just have to stop for a Gordon’s Bay “draai-roomys” as the locals refer to soft-serve ice cream on a cone. (Unfortunately, I did not take a photo of mine, but it is kind of something like the one below. However, you have the option of adding sprinkles, caramel, flake chocolate, and more….)
There are loads of fabulous places to stay.
However, we stayed in a beautiful 2 bedroom, beachfront apartment. Neat and clean with everything you need for a great holiday. But above all, it was the beautiful views, sunsets from the porch, and late evening braai that had us wanting to go back again and again.
You will really enjoy your stay here. Park your car for the weekend in the garage and walk where ever you need to go. You’ll also find a famous South African family type restaurant right on the beach, with a play park right next to it. Ideal for families with children.
If you’re staying in a self-catering apartment or home, check out our recipe page for some inspiration. Read more…
Book early to avoid disappointment.
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