Arniston is a lovely old fishing village with white thatch fisherman's cottages, sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters. Whilst nearby De Hoop offer wildlife and wild beaches.
Scroll for more
If your idea of a perfect holiday is long sandy beaches, pastel sunsets, and a village that seems to have pressed “pause” on time, welcome to Arniston. This charming old fishing village—complete with white-washed cottages and a turquoise sea – makes for more low-key alternative to Hermanus.
East of Cape Agulhas (where the warm Indian Ocean meets the cold Atlantic Ocean), Arniston boasts warmer waters than the Cape. Plus the legendary vast of Waenhuiskrans.
Arniston’s gently sloping beaches and calm turquoise waters make it one of the best family-friendly beach destinations on the Cape Whale coast. The warmer water helps as well.
Close to Arniston is Cape Agulhas, the southern most point of Africa, easily visited on a day out. As well as De Hoop nature reserve – see later.
There are not many hotels in Arniston. with the Arniston Hotel & Spa claiming front-row seats to ocean drama. It’s also, close to the picturesque fishing cottages at Kassiebaai (now a national heritage site). Order the local fish at the Arniston Hotel - trust us!
Did you know?
Arniston is also known as Waenhuiskrans, named after the cave which is so big that an ox wagon (“waenhuis”) could turn around inside it.
Waenhuiskrans Cave Tip: Bring a torch, and only go at low tide!
Just to the west lies De Hoop Nature Reserve, where you might spot 50 whales at once in season, stroll empty beaches, or find the rare Cape Mountain zebra eyeing your picnic.
Here you find a stunning coastline of deserted beaches, rocky cliffs, coastal sand dunes, a freshwater lake and a turquoise sea
The walking trails through the fynbos at De Hoop are particularly fine - a ‘must’ if you are a keen bird-watcher. Wildlife includes the Cape Mountain zebra, tortoises, ostrich and bontebok.
There's now also a choice of Dee Hoop accommodation from the affordable De Hoop Collection to the luxurious Morukuru Beach Lodge, or the perfectly situated Lekkerwater Beach Lodge.
Dreaming of empty beaches and cozy cottages? Reach out for tailor-made tours and honest hotel reviews from Cedarberg Africa
Best time for whale watching in De Hoop?
The best time for whale watching in De Hoop Nature Reserve is between July to October – with the peak in August and September. Remember to bring binoculars
Are there family-friendly accommodation options in De Hoop or Arniston?
Yes! Arniston Hotel & Spa and De Hoop Collection both offer excellent family-friendly stays, with activities for all ages. Whilst Morukuru Ocean Lodge offers is a luxury exclusive use villa, perfect for multi-gen family get togethers.
Lekkerwater Beach Lodge is on the site of an original holiday homestead which was requisitioned by the Government in the 80s. It is a simply gob-smacking location with views up and down this completely deserted beautiful stretch of beach. Basically this is as good as any beach destination in South Africa. The main lodge is small … Read More
Only the best African travel advice, tidbits and tours. No nonsense.
