Birkenhead

• Province : Western Cape
• Overberg
• Coordinates ; 34°37′0″S “19°19′39″E
• Area ; 5.7/km2
• Municipality Overstrand Birkenhead

The village is located on the southern coast of the Western Cape near the Danger Point peninsula. It sits along the R43, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and is surrounded by rugged coastline and rich marine environments. The lighthouse at Danger Point serves as a key landmark and navigational aid, marking one of the most treacherous stretches of South African coastline.

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History of Birkenhead

The village is named after the famous ship that sank just off the Danger Point peninsula, where it is situated.
The ship is famous because of the bravery of the ship’s crew; not one woman or child was lost. The protocol “ women and children first” is said to have originated here.
There is an accompanying legend that says the ship was also carrying about 3 tons of gold. While many artefacts have been recovered, there has been no sign of the gold.

The memory of the shipwreck is preserved through various historical markers, and the lighthouse at Danger Point was erected to warn other ships of the treacherous waters that caused the disaster.

The postal code for Birkenhead is 7220, and the license plate prefix is CEM 

Resources

Practical information for the Western Cape, Regulations, permits and helpful tips. See the Colourdots coastal and nature use guide

local WEATHER TODAY

Browse businesses and places to visit in BIRKENHEAD

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Useful Numbers in Birkenhead

Residents and visitors can find important local contact numbers below, including police, medical services, utilities, and community facilities

• Emergency Services

• Police: Hermanus Police Station-028 313 5300
• Fire: 028 312 2400`
• Ambulance: 10177

• Medical

• Closest hospital; Gaans Baai clinic-028 384 1917

• Municipal & Utilities

• Municipality; Keinmond-028 271 8400
• 24-Hour Emergency line: 028 313 8000/8111

• Transport & Roads

• Traffic Department: Hermanus Traffic Department-028 313 8111
• Road Emergencies / SANRAL: 0800 204 204

• Community & Safety

• NSRI 087 094 9774
• 24hour Poisons Information Helpline of the Western Cape:  0861 555 777. 
• SPCA: BARC (Birkenhead Animal Rescue Centre)-Gans baai – 0828260631

• Local Contacts and Community Resources

• Post office; Gans Baai=028 384 0242
• Library: Gans Baai-028 384 8346

• The closest schools are in Gansbaai