- Province: Western Cape
- West Coast
- Coordinates:33°5′30″S 18°2′0″E
- Area:20.17 km2
- Municipality:Saldanha Bay
Langebaan is a coastal town on the West Coast of the Western Cape, about 120 km north of Cape Town. It lies on the eastern shore of Langebaan Lagoon, part of the West Coast National Park, and is connected to the R27 coastal highway. The town is a popular destination for water sports, birdwatching, and eco-tourism.
History of Langebaan
This is a residential town with no industrial activity permitted. The establishment of the West Coast National Park in 1985 helped preserve the natural beauty and ecology of the lagoon and surrounding areas. The lagoon is now a protected marine wetland and part of the RAMSAR convention for wetlands of international importance. It is possible that the town was named after the meandering dirt road behind the dunes that leads to the original homestead at Lynch Point.
Evidence shows Homo sapiens lived here 500,000 years ago, hunting small game and crafting tools. Vasco Da Gama first explored the area in 1497. In the 1600s, the Dutch East India Company used Saldanha Bay’s calm waters for ship repairs.
Langebaan, founded in 1870 on the farm Geitenmelksfontein (“Goat’s Milk Fountain”), has a rich history. The town was a prominent whaling station until the 1960s.. Donkergat’s whaling station is still visible today. A harpoon gun outside the Municipal Buildings is a reminder. Whaling ended due to global pressure and declining whale populations.
By 1729, the VOC had expanded farming, establishing Geelbekfontein near Langebaan. They also built a second fort near Konstabelkop to supply water to passing ships. At Kraalbaai, the VOC (Dutch East India Company) set up “Oude Post” to manage resources and monitor trade. Dutch expeditions marked five islands in Langebaan Lagoon with monograms; the only surviving one is at Geelbek.
Saldanha Bay was named after António de Saldanha, although he never actually entered these waters. In 1601, Juris van Spilbergen mistakenly believed he had reached Cape Town and named it Saldanha Bay. The bay was originally called Agoada de Saldanha, but the Dutch later claimed ownership. Despite European interest, settlement was limited due to the lack of fresh water, as Langebaan Lagoon is a saltwater body.
Schaapen Island served as a quarantine station and storage site for seal skins and whale oil. French seal hunters used it, and it was called Isle la Biche before Dutch settlers renamed it. The other islands in the lagoon also supported the sealing and guano industries. Over 286 shipwrecks occurred along this coast.
The area witnessed two naval battles in 1863 involving the Confederate warship, Alabama.
William Smith, a British sailor, was the town’s first settler, building a cottage by the lagoon — his descendants still live here. Langebaan’s Dutch Reformed Church houses South Africa’s oldest pulpit.
WEATHER IN LANGEBAAN TODAY
Browse businesses and places to visit in Langebaan
Things to see and do in Langebaan:
- To explore the area on classic motorcycles, please visit African Dream Motorcycle Adventures
- The Postberg trail is only open once a year, from August to September, during the wildflower season. 022 772 2144/5
- Water sports, especially kite surfing and sailing,
- The local beach attracts kiteboarding enthusiasts from all over the world. Main Beach is one of South Africa’s favourite kiteboarding spots,
- Langebaan Lagoon is a protected natural wetland and a Ramsar site. It is an ideal birdwatching spot. You may see flamingos, oystercatchers, gulls, and other rare waterbirds.
- Breë Street is considered to be the heart of Langebaan with restaurants, coffee shops and pubs. Situated on the beach, admire the famous Langebaan sunset over the lagoon
- Marra Square also has many little shops
- Langebaanweg: This military aerodrome, originally named Airforce Station Congela, was established in 1942. Its initial purpose was as a training unit to counter the German and Japanese submarine threat. This base is where the famous Silver Falcons aerobatic team started in Impalas; they are now flying Astras.
For permits, fishing rules, shell collecting regulations and other practical outdoor information relevant to Langebaan, see the Colourdots coastal and nature use guide
Useful Numbers in Langebaan
Emergency Services
- Police: 022 707 5140 or 10111
- Crime Stop (anonymous crime reporting): 08600 10111
- Fire Department: 022 701 7061
- Ambulance:10177
- private 022 772 2377
- ER24 (private ambulance): 084 124
- Netcare 911: 082 911
- Medical
- Closest hospital;
Life West Coast private hospital, Vredenberg 022 719 1030
Seabreeze Medical Centre 022 772 1606 - Pharmacy;022 772 2470
Municipal & Utilities
- Municipality 022 707 5000
- Call centre 022 701 7061 / 6974
- Water:
- Electricity:
Transport & Roads
- Traffic department:0227036100
- Vehicle registration 022 707 5015
- Road Emergencies / SANRAL: 0800 204 204
Community & Safety
- Sea rescue 082 9905966
- NSRI (Sea Rescue): 087 094 9774
- Childline South Africa: 116
- Poison Information Centre: 0861 555 777
- SPCA: West Coast SPCA 022 289 0998 Langebaan animal care
Local Contacts and Community Resources
- Post office: 022 772 2710
- Library: 022 707 5030
- Tourism; 022 772 1515
- Ratepayers Association:082 889 0685
Schools in Langebaan
Longacres Private School 022 772 0302
Curro Independent School 022 772 0116
FAQ
1. Where is Langebaan?
Langebaan is a town on the West Coast of the Western Cape, about 120 km north of Cape Town, along the R27.
2. What is Langebaan famous for?
It is known for the Langebaan Lagoon, ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and birdwatching, as well as its white sandy beaches and relaxed West Coast atmosphere.
3. How do I get there?
From Cape Town, take the N7 north toward Malmesbury, then turn onto the R27 to Langebaan. The drive takes about 1.5–2 hours.
4. Are there beaches in Langebaan?
Yes. The town has several beaches along the lagoon, including Club Mykonos Beach, Beach Road, and Elands Bay nearby, all suitable for swimming and water sports.
5. Can I swim in the lagoon?
Yes. The lagoon is shallow, calm, and safe for swimming, especially for children and beginners.
6. Are there water sports available?
Yes. The lagoon is perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. Equipment rentals and lessons are available at local shops and clubs.
7. Can I see wildlife in Langebaan?
Yes. The West Coast National Park borders the lagoon and is home to birds, springbok, ostriches, and more. Birdwatchers can spot flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants along the lagoon.
8. Are there restaurants and shops?
Yes. Langebaan has a variety of cafés, seafood restaurants, and small shops, mainly around the town centre and lagoonfront.
9. Is Langebaan family-friendly?
Yes. The calm beaches, safe swimming areas, and outdoor activities make it ideal for families and children.
10. Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on some beaches and paths, but must be on a leash in public areas.
11. What is the best time to visit?
Summer (November–March) is best for water sports and swimming, while spring (August–October) is ideal for wildflower viewing and birdwatching.
12. What facilities are available in Langebaan?
The town offers schools, shops, restaurants, medical services, and access to recreational and tourist facilities.
- Colourdots is an independent regional information resource for the Western Cape.
Learn more about the project HERE
Updated October 2025
