Jacobsbaai beach

Jacobsbaai or Jacobs Bay is beautiful. There are strict building restrictions, and homes have to conform to the ‘fishing village’ theme, which is lime-washed in a relatively modest Cape Dutch style. The 2 km of coastline here includes seven individual bays, one of which is Jacobsbaai. These are quite close to one another; each one is worth exploring.  Kwaaibaai is popular for surfing,  while Toothrock and Bamboesbaai are known for great diving opportunities, fishing and crayfishing. See Oystercatchers and cormorants sunning on the rocks. Smalbaai and Moerie se baai are great for launching boats from; Mauritzbaai has hundreds of terns roosting on the rocks. Hospital Bay is great for swimming.

See the illustrated guide to sea fishing in the Western Cape

If you’re a keen birdwatcher, head to Smalbaai where you’ll see oystercatchers and cormorants. There are a couple of restaurants that will serve excellent “fish of the day”.

Shells can often be found on this beach, especially after winter storms and low tide. If you plan to collect shells, please follow local regulations and take only empty shells. Shell identification guide

Surf report

Check the tides here

Best beaches in the Western Cape article