Hout Bay is a charming seaside village just half an hour out of Cape Town. Here is a guide of some places to visit and activities you can do if you happen to visit Hout Bay.
Bay Harbour Market
Bay Harbour market is open on Friday evenings and weekends. It offers some of the best market experiences in the Western Cape province. The market has handsomely crafted local goods as well as food and fashion. Live bands and musicians are also a common feature adding the perfect ambiance.
Naval Heritage Site
The Naval Heritage site offers one a chance to see and touch antique cannons as well as a view of the operational harbour. One can also see the seals that are always coming out onto the rocks to sun. There are some locals who feed the seals fish and one can have perfect photo opportunity by standing with the seals.
Chapman’s Peak
Chapman’s peak is a scenic drive that trails along the mountain and offers breath taking views of the ocean. There are many places where you can stop for either a picnic, the perfect photo opportunity or just to appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
If you decide to take a swim there are beaches, including the Hout Bay beach that are nearby.
World of Birds
World of Birds is the largest bird park in Africa and is also a sanctuary for birds undergoing rehabilitation. The bird park is located just as you enter Hout Bay and is one of the few large bird parks world wide.
Sinnfull Ice Cream
The ice cream parlour is a favourite among locals and offers a variety of ice creams and sorbets which are handmade using natural ingredients. The parlour’s specialty is unique flavourings, like Saffron & Pistachio or Aero. It is the perfect treat with no added flavourings, additives, colourants or preservatives.
You can reach Hout Bay either by travelling along the coast or through the mount-pass from the Kirstenbosch side. It is a lovely place to enjoy a variety of activities with friends or family.
More: The South African