History of Lambert’s Bay
- Province: Western Cape
- West coast
- Coordinates: 32°5′S 18°18′E
- Area:45.73 km2
- Municipality:Cederberg
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Lamberts Bay was named after Admiral Lambert, who was with the British Navy. He did a marine survey of the bay between 1826 and 1840. The area was part of the farm Otterdam, which was owned by Gerrit Erasmus Smit.
In 1887Joseph Carl Stephan bought the site where the town grew, and he built the hotel and other infrastructure. He used the natural harbour for ships trading and transporting goods, including wheat and other local produce. British ships used the bay as a lay-up during the Anglo-Boer War. The HMS Sybille was wrecked in 1901 opposite Steenbokfontein. Artefacts from the Sybille are on display at the local museum.
The only naval engagement of the Anglo-Boer War took place at Lamberts Bay. General Jan Smuts found a Royal Navy gunboat anchored there during his raid of the southwestern Cape. Smuts’ forces opened fire on the boat from the shelter of the dunes. The boat responded with a few shells. Corporal Smallwood, a marine, was the only casualty.
Lamberts Bay is famous for its beaches, birdlife, and moderate climate. It has been dubbed “The diamond of the West Coast”The Lamberts Bay economy, however, revolves around fishing, mostly crayfish. The first crayfish factory was started there in 1918 by Mr Lindstrom with crayfish trading at 1/6 and 2/6 per hundred.
About 17 km South of the town, on the farm Wadrift a 200-year-old lock that is still used as a storeroom. Also on the farm is a house built completely from whale bones. The bones, however, are not visible.
The license plate prefix for Lamberts Bay is CAR, and the postcode is 8130
WEATHER TODAY IN LAMBERTS BAY
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Things to see and do in Lamberts Bay:
- The town hosts the annual Crayfish Festival in February 027 432 1000
- There are great birdwatching opportunities in Lamberts Bay
- The best way to explore the snow-white dunes of Lambert’s Bay’s inland desert is by quad bike. Several routes are available. The whole family can enjoy the activity, and no experience is required.
- Bird Island just offshore, is a massive slab of rock about 3ha in extent. It is home to thousands of Jackass penguins, gannets and cormorants. It is connected to the mainland by a breakwater. 300 tons of guano is collected off the island each year
- Farmers’ market at Malkoppan Farm. Every last Saturday of the month, 083 370 0400
- Steenbokfontein, 9km south of the village, is home to rich history, stunning views, and one of the most impressive cave sites in the Western Cape. Visitors need a permit to visit the historic Khoisan Caves on the farm.
- Die Mond, just north of the harbour, is popular for catching West Coast steenbras, galjoen and hottentot.
Useful Numbers
- Police:Â 027 432 8260
- Municipality; Clanwilliam-027 482 8000
- Traffic department: 027 432 8260
- Fire: 027 482 2576
- `Water: 027 482 8000
- Â Electricity: 027 482 8000
- Ambulance: 027 482 2576
- Post office; 027 432 1008
- Library: 027 432 1901
- Closest hospital; Lamberts Bay Medical Centre 027 432 1136
- Pharmacy; 027 432 1133
- SPCA:Swaartland – 022 492 2781
- Schools:
- Lamberts Bay Primary School 0274321130
- PW De Bruin primary   027 432 2702
- Museum; Sandveld museum  Church Street.
- Tourism (0)27 432 1000Â Lambert’s Bay
Towns in the Cederberg district include: Citrusdal; Clanwilliam; Elands Bay; Graafwater; Porterville; Redlinghuys; and Wupperthal
FAQs for Lambert’s Bay
Where is Lamberts Bay located?
Lamberts Bay is on the West Coast of the Western Cape, about 280 km north of Cape Town via the N7 and R364.
What is Lamberts Bay known for?
It’s known for Bird Island, fresh seafood, long beaches, and traditional West Coast fishing culture.
Is Bird Island open to visitors?
Yes. Bird Island Nature Reserve is accessible via a breakwater. It has a gannet colony, lookout points, and an information centre. Access may close in rough sea conditions.
Are there good seafood restaurants?
Yes. Lamberts Bay is famous for open-air seafood restaurants, fish eateries, and local takeaways.
Is the area suitable for families with children?
Yes. The beaches, harbour area, and nature reserve are family-friendly.
What activities are available?
Beach walks, sandboarding, birdwatching, surfing, whale and dolphin sightings (seasonal), harbour visits, 4×4 routes, and exploring nearby Matzikama towns.
Is swimming safe in Lamberts Bay?
The water is cold. Conditions vary, so it’s best to check local safety signage and avoid rough surf.
Are there shops and fuel stations?
Yes. The town has supermarkets, a fuel station, convenience shops, and ATMs.
How do I get there?
Drive the N7 from Cape Town, then turn onto the R364. The trip takes about 3 hours.
Does Lamberts Bay have medical services?
Yes. The town has a clinic and access to emergency services in the surrounding Matzikama area.
