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Gansbaai is a popular tourist attraction and is best known for its great white sharks and whale watching. It is definitely worth a visit and you’ll have more than enough to keep you busy.
Gansbaai seafront holiday house – “Ons C-huis” is situated in Gansbaai, 1.1 km from Stanford’s Bay. This holiday rental in Gansbaai features barbecue facilities, free WiFi, a pool table, ping-pong, and a dishwasher. The ideal weekend getaway.
Things to do: Be brave and go for Shark Cage Diving.
House Aquamarine is situated within 100 m of the beach. This detached holiday home set in De Kelders in the Western Cape Region boasts views of the sea.
It is located 40 km from Hermanus, 3.1 km from Gansbaai, and 16 km from Stanford.
Things to do: Do some Whale watching while you’re here.
The ocean decides the mood here. Mornings can be chilly, afternoons warm, and wind can roll in fast.
Bring layers
Add a windbreaker or light rain jacket
Sun protection matters even on cool days
You’ll feel more relaxed if you’re dressed for change.
Your best option is to book car rental as there is no public transport from the airport to Gansbaai.
It is approximately a 2 hr 40 min (188 km) drive if you take the scenic drive: Taking the R300 road to the N1 and then following the road through the beautiful town of Stellenbosch, Bot River, Caledon, Hermanus, and then Gansbaai.
When booking a car with GPS, set your GPS in South Africa to follow the highways (NOT the shortest route.)
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Cliff paths offer free whale watching in season. Dolphins, seabirds, and seals are common sights too. A simple pair of binoculars adds a whole new layer to coastal walks.
This is not a rushed destination. Gansbaai works best when you:
Take long coastal walks
Sit with a coffee and watch the sea
Plan early nights after salty air days
The calm is the luxury. Sunrise and late afternoon are magical. The light softens, the wind often drops, and the ocean feels endless. Those quiet moments end up being the memories you take home.
Some beaches are wild and beautiful rather than gentle swimming spots.
Swim where lifeguards are present
Pay attention to warning signs and currents
De Kelders is better for walks and views than for swimming
The coastline here is dramatic — enjoy it with respect.
Local Music: This song was written long ago about Gansbaai (in Afrikaans). Just a little bit of vibe for your vacation…
Suggested Read: Have you looked at a holiday on the KZN Coast of South Africa, or Coffee Bay, the Wild Coast’s most popular holiday destination?