Cape Coastal Route - Mossel Bay

Situated between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth nestles the beautiful town of Mossel Bay. Mossel Bay is listed in the Guinness Book of records as having the second most temperate climate next to Hawaii.

A bustling resort in summer and an ideal retreat in winter will offer the visitor pristine beaches, mountains and adventure. Mossel Bay has a rich archaeological and cultural history dating back approximately 350 thousand years.

The sea temperature is a comfortable 20 to 24 degrees Celsius during the summer months and 13 to 14 degrees in winter. Hartenbos has the longest beach, approximately 5km with two safe swimming areas. Dias Beach is a hive of activity, with a indoor heated pool for the not so brave and a worm slide and Pikkie Land for the kids.

The Tidal Pool situated next to the Point Hotel forms a natural tidal pool with ropes secured across the pool to assist swimmers when the surging tides cause strong currents to wash down the pool. There is a diving board over a deep pool with high rocks on the seaward side.

Blaasgat (Blow Hole) near the Tunnel Caves is one of the most treacherous spots on this coast. The surging waves pound the entrance and it is not advisable that spectators get too close as they are in danger of being washed off by the powerful waves.

Bartholomeu Dias anchored in the Bay of St Blaize in 1488. The town exported ostrich feathers, wool and ochre. The Dutch navigator Paulus van Caerden renamed the town Mossel Bay due to the abundance of mussels. The town boast many museums and a life size replica of Bartholomeu Diaz's Caravel ship, that he sailed into Mossel Bay and can be seen at the Diaz Museum.

Tidal pool situated next to the Point Hotel

In 1500 Pedro de Ataide left an important letter in a shoe or iron pot under a tree. The letter was found by Joao da Nova in 1501 on route to India. This tree has been declared a National Monument and is believed to be the first "Post Office" in South Africa.

The Maritime Museum focuses on sailing and ships in the early days.
The Granary museum displays specimens of wild flowers.
The Shell museum has a large collection of shells, including the pansy shell.
The Cultural museum has numerous artifacts of historical importance over the years

Mossel Bay is a whale watchers paradise and information boards are placed at stunning view points for the enthusiast.

Seal island is the home to thousand of seals and day trips can be taken to view this island and its inhabitants. This island is about 2km from the Harbour and is about l00m long and 50m wide. At present there are approximately 5000 seals on the island. No culling is done on this Island any more, as the population remains fairly stable due to the Great White shark's appetite.

The marine life is abundant and is home to some of the largest Great White Sharks. Shark cage diving trips are available for the brave hearted.

The Mossel Bay Yatch Club offers the avid sailor and fishermen all the amenities to launch their boats. There is also a Municipal jetty available.

Visit the Lighthouse Restaurant situated at The Point Hotel for wonderful dinning experience and incredible view.