Driving

Driving is on the Left Hand Side of the Road (Good for UK, Bad for Europe & US!)

Everyone knows of the famous California coastline roads sweeping along the coastal cliffs with dramatic ocean views as a backdrop. Well we can guarantee to you that our coastal road to Gansbaai around False bay will be unforgettable, there are not many other roads in the world which compete with this. The only problem is who is going to lose the coin toss for passenger/driver!

These coastal roads do have many viewing points to stop so even the driver can enjoy the views along the way. If you prefer driving at a snails pace along the coastline then wait until you reach De Kelders where you can stop anywhere to relax and enjoy the view!

These roads are quiet and the views breathtaking during the peak Whale season (July-January) where there is no better place to watch the abundance of Whales visiting the area.

Weather

Summer

Summers in the Overberg are hot and dry with the occasional summer rainfall sweeping the coast. The average daytime temperature is between 25-32 Degrees Celsius and a nighttime temperature of 16-18 Degrees Celsius The seas are moderately calm unlike the winter months. The water temperature is on average a refreshing 16 Degrees Celsius which is perfect for the Great White Sharks and Whales visiting the area but not good if you want to paddle in the water for hours unlike the Mediterranean. The Beauty with the cold water is that when visiting the beach, you do not really get too hot as there is usually a gentle cool breeze to keep you from overheating. On occasions we experience a heatwave and the temperature rises to around 34 Degrees Celsius but with the low humidity and cool ocean on your doorstep it is never unbearable. The African sun is infamously strong and it is advised to buy a strong sun factor lotion. Suntan lotion is cheap in South Africa so it is worth waiting until you get out here to buy yourself protection.

Winter

Winters in the Overberg are mild. There is a general weather pattern where we experience 1-2 days of beautiful weather with temperatures exceeding 20 Degrees Celsius followed by 2-3 days of wet weather when a cold front hits the coastline. On these days the temperature drops to between 12-16 degrees with the occasional 'extremes' where the temperature drops below 10 Degrees Celsius Please note that these temperatures are measured on land and it can be a much colder story out at sea so wrap up warm when you go out! When the cold fronts pass over, the seas rise and the chance of going out on a boat is reduced. The crews are all experienced and know the waters well, if they decide not to go out then you will obviously be happy to stay on land for the day.

The Coastline

The Overberg coastline is naturally beautiful with its dramatic sweeping mountains creating a beautiful backdrop to its towns. The waters around Gansbaai are extremely rich in marine life which provides for excellent sea fishing where boat based and beach fishing are actively pursued. The most common fish caught in these waters are Galjoen (Pictured Below), Yellowtail, Snoek, Cape Cod, Kingklip, and Crayfish but don't worry, if you do not manage to go out fishing you still can enjoy a freshly caught fish from the local fish & chip shop.

The Beaches around Gansbaai are stunning! The whole area is blessed with long stretches of sunbleached white sand complemented by rolling surf and calm tidal pools. Just to stroll along the beaches watching the waves will refresh you completely and the tidal pools provide a safe haven for kids to play in.

Gansbaai is an old fishing village now turned into a popular tourist destination mostly due to its nearby islands of Dyer and Geyser Island which are home to Cape Fur Seals, African Penguins & Great White Sharks. The town is still small and quaint without traffic and hoards of people allowing visitors to completely relax without the stress of traffic, car horns, loud music etc. The town still has an active fishing industry due to its rich waters which gives the town a good mix of character and charm.

As you can see, the area boasts so much to offer for visitors, after spending time here we are sure you will want to come back again and again to this unique area.