Bailey’s Cottage Beach
Bailey’s Cottage Beach is not much more than a patch of sand between two rocky points. Swimming here is not advisable, but the rock pools are worth exploring. The remote little beach is popular with fishermen who catch Steenbras and/or Galjoen among other species, depending on the season. It is, however, of historical interest. Just above the beach is Bailey’s Cottage. Known as Falangisina @ Bailey’s Cottage.
This building was designed as a beach holiday hideaway for Sir Abe Bailey, the Diamond Tycoon and a good friend of Cecil John Rhodes, in 1909. It was also used as a lookout post and policing station, keeping an eye for enemy ships and illegal trading over the years.
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The stone bungalow is now a Guest House. There is parking available, and dogs are allowed if they are kept on a leash.
Just above Bailey’s cottage is an open stretch of lawn called Battle of Muizenberg Fort, where the Dutch (who had ruled the Cape since 1652) made a stand against the invading British forces in 1795. The battle lasted a mere 30 minutes, but the Dutch lost their important replenishing station on the sea route to the East.
Check the tides here
S34.142845, E18.851403
Fishing in the Western Cape article
Best beaches in the Western Cape article
