Big Bay Blouberg is a vibrant destination that perfectly captures the essence of coastal living. With its stunning beach views and a lively atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for families and friends to gather. The area boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants and shops, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals or grab a quick snack after a day in the sun. You can take leisurely strolls along the beachfront while soaking in the breathtaking scenery, including glimpses of Robben Island's playful penguins.
Table Mountain as seen from Bloubergstrand.
Why You Should Visit Big Bay
- Breathtaking views of the ocean and Table Mountain.
- Charming coffee shops for enjoyable morning walks.
- Cozy and vibrant atmosphere with diverse dining options.
A Brief History of Bloubergstrand
Bloubergstrand is a seaside suburb of the City of Cape Town, South Africa, along the shores of Table Bay, 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) due north of the city centre of Cape Town. The name Bloubergstrand literally means "blue mountain beach" in Afrikaans, and is derived from Blaauwberg (231 metres (758 ft)), a nearby hill.
"Harry die Strandloper", or Hadah, was the leader of the Goringhaikonas, who were the first people documented to live in Bloubergstrand. Hadah, whose original name was Autshumao, was taken to Java in 1629 by the captain of the ship London to be taught English.
In 1806, the first casualties of the Battle of Blaauwberg drowned when their boat was driven by the large surf into the rocky point at the end of Stadler road and it capsized. The invading British forces went on to defeat the defending Dutch forces and subsequently occupied the whole of the Cape Colony.
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Previously a National Monument, now a Provincial Heritage Site, "Ons Huisie" (literally translated to Our Small Home) has a long and colourful history in the development of Bloubergstrand. It was the first dwelling of Frederick Louis Stadler. (Hence Stadler Road is the original street). Shortly after the Battle of Blouberg in 1806, he became owner of almost all the farm property that is now known as Bloubergstrand. The exact building date is not known, but a Thomas Bowler made a beautiful pencil drawing of the house in 1853.
Hendrik Louis Stadler, the sixth son of Frederick Louis, was the owner of "Ons Huisie" at that time. His sons, Frikkie, Rozier and Johannes, were some of the original founders of Bloubergstrand.
From the 1940s a well-known writer of illustrated Afrikaans children's books, Helena 'Mollie' Lochner, lived at the end of Stadler Road in "Die Groot Withuis" or the Lochner House, on the southernmost tip of the promontory. Her ashes are buried under the front step of the house. When she died "Mollie Lochner Huis" was bequeathed to the South African Teachers' Union as a holiday home for female teachers but because of the high maintenance cost they had to dispose of it.
During Apartheid, Bloubergstrand was classified as a “whites-only” beach and suburb as part of the Group Areas Act. The ruling was repealed in 1991 following the abolishing of the Group Areas Act.
The imposing Blouberg Heights was built in the 1970s in response to a "white housing crisis" in racially segregated Cape Town. The past continues in certain areas.
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Local licensed fishermen still use a small local design of rowing boat to put their nets out in Small Bay for mullet when the temperature and other conditions are favourable. A traditional way of cooking the "harders" or mullets after cleaning them at the water's edge with the seabirds enjoying a free meal, is to make a wood fire, put much salt on the external skin and then to "braai" or grill to taste. The mullet has quite a few small bones and needs to be carefully digested together with freshly baked bread or pap from maize, enhanced with a regional traditional jam. Sometimes another local delicacy, "braaibrood", replaces the freshly baked bread. Street names in the Village of Bloubergstrand, since the early days, bear the names of well-known people i.e.
The Bloubergstrand area falls within a marine nature reserve and the extraction of species such as Cape rock lobster and abalone is prohibited. A licence is required in order to catch previously well-known local varieties of galjoen and Hottentot. Seafood is popular in the area, and includes the local white mussels.
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In season southern right whales, occasionally killer whales, humpback dolphins, Haviside's dolphin and Cape fur seals are commonly seen in the bay.
Bloubergstrand has a long white sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean, with a few rocky outcrops where black mussels are found. The water is cold due to the Benguela current but the beach is popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers.
The bay on the west side of Bloubergstrand, known as 'Big Bay' has become a very popular windsurfing and kitesurfing spot due to the constant trade winds bringing a 1-3 m surf for a majority of the year.
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Big Bay Beach: A Detailed Look
Big Bay Beach is a huge stretch of white sand. Behind the beach there are some incredible sand dunes where the sand is powder soft. During late winter/early springtime the dunes are covered with flowers of every colour.
Walk in the direction of Cape Town and you'll come to a rocky area. The rock pools here often have little fish and other sea creatures in them that will keep children amused for hours. There's also an island that can be reached on foot at low tide - just make sure you return again before the tide comes in or you'll be a castaway on your own little island.
Right behind this beach is the wonderful Blue Peter. The Blue Peter is a local institution and a great place to enjoy a sundowner drink or a breakfast overlooking the ocean. Dating back to the late 19th century this hotel is like a British colonial outpost. Paintings of British historical figures and 19th century sailing vessels line the walls, while flotsam and jetsam, used as decoration, adds character to the place.
In summer the lawn is packed with people enjoying a glass of wine, cocktails or a cold beer while watching the sunset. This little old house is one of the oldest building on the entire west coast of South Africa and is right on the water, about a ten minute walk from the Blue Peter in the direction of Cape Town. The setting is fabulously picturesque, with the beach and ocean lying before you and the thatched Ons Huise (our house in Afrikaans) behind you. It's been turned into a restaurant but I wouldn't bother eating here - the waiters look like they'd rather be sleeping and service is appalling. The food pretty much matches the service levels.
Roughly 30km north of Cape Town city centre, Big Bay is one of two Bloubergstrand beaches (the other is called Little Bay or Small Bay). Big Bay is a fantastic family-friendly beach, offering excellent waves, long white sandy shores and plenty of dining and shopping options.
Big Bay and Small Bay are divided by a rocky point, with Big Bay usually receiving the full brunt of the Atlantic swell. Naturally, these conditions attract surfers, Stand-Up Paddleboarders and bodyboarders when the waves are pumping. Sunsets and sundowners have become synonymous with this area, too.
Wander through Eden on the Bay and you’ll find vintage boutiques, miscellaneous bargain bins and high-end luxury garments for sale. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there is no shortage of beachside apartments, B&Bs and surf lodges within walking distance of Big Bay.
Things to Do in Big Bay
Big Bay is renowned for its consistent winds, making it a paradise for kitesurfers and windsurfers. If you're not into watersports, the strong gusts can be a factor, so pack accordingly and be prepared for a breezy experience. It's also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so expect it to be lively, especially during peak seasons.
Kitesurfing in Big Bay is a popular activity.
Big Bay is a prime spot for surfing and kitesurfing. Even if you don't participate, watching the pros is a thrill!
The sunsets at Big Bay are legendary. Find a good spot along the promenade for breathtaking views.
Visitors love the vibrant atmosphere at Eden on the Bay and the opportunities for photography. However, some find the strong winds can be a deterrent for non-watersport activities, and parking can be a challenge.
Key Attractions
- Spectacular Table Mountain views
- World-class kitesurfing/windsurfing
- Vibrant Eden on the Bay atmosphere
Potential Drawbacks
- Strong winds can be bothersome
- Parking can be difficult
Getting Around Big Bay
While Big Bay itself is walkable, exploring the wider Cape Town area is best done with a rental car for flexibility, especially for visiting the Winelands or venturing further afield.
Use the MyCiTi bus for affordable travel to the city center and Waterfront. Avoid peak hours for a less crowded ride.
A rental car is recommended for exploring the Winelands and other attractions beyond Big Bay.
The MyCiTi bus service is a convenient option, with routes connecting the city center to Big Bay. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, which also allows for easier exploration of surrounding areas like the Winelands. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season and weekends. Arriving early or considering public transport is advisable.
Yes, the MyCiTi bus service offers routes to Big Bay from various parts of Cape Town. It's a cost-effective way to travel, though it can get busy. Renting a car provides the most freedom for exploring attractions like the Winelands or the Cape Peninsula. For trips into the city, the MyCiTi bus is a good alternative.
While there aren't direct airport transfers specifically for Big Bay, you can arrange for private shuttles or use ride-sharing services from Cape Town International Airport.
Tickets and Entry
Big Bay Beach itself is generally free to access. However, some activities or venues within the Big Bay area, like restaurants or specific watersport centers, will have their own charges.
Some establishments may offer student discounts, especially if you present a valid student card. It's always worth asking.
Eden on the Bay is a lifestyle center with various shops and restaurants, so their operating hours vary. Most shops and eateries are open daily from morning until late evening.
For popular activities like kitesurfing lessons or specific dining experiences, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Absolutely! Enjoying the beach, watching the kitesurfers, walking along the promenade, and witnessing the sunset are all free and highly recommended.
Onsite Experience
Big Bay is famous for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its consistent winds. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding or simply enjoy swimming in the ocean.
Late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with the golden hour casting a beautiful glow on Table Mountain and the ocean. Sunsets are particularly spectacular.
Yes, Eden on the Bay is a popular spot with a variety of restaurants and cafes offering diverse cuisines and stunning ocean views.
Big Bay is generally considered safe, especially during the day. However, like any popular tourist area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.
Eden on the Bay features a mix of boutiques, surf shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a pleasant shopping and dining experience.
Food and Dining
Eden on the Bay offers a range of dining options. For seafood with a view, consider restaurants there. Oumeul Bakery in nearby Melkbosstrand is also a local favorite for treats.
While some restaurants at Eden on the Bay can be pricier, you can find more affordable options like cafes or casual eateries. Exploring nearby areas might also reveal budget-friendly gems.
Most restaurants in popular areas like Eden on the Bay are accustomed to dietary requests and usually offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
Cape Town offers a diverse culinary scene, influenced by Malay, Dutch, and African flavors. You can find dishes like bobotie or seafood specialties in restaurants around Big Bay.
Absolutely! Many restaurants and bars at Eden on the Bay offer prime seating for sunset views, making it the perfect spot for a sundowner.
Photography in Big Bay
The promenade overlooking the ocean with Table Mountain in the background is iconic. Bloubergstrand offers even more dramatic views of Table Mountain. Late afternoons during the golden hour provide the most stunning light. Sunsets are also incredibly photogenic, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Big Bay management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing kitesurfers in action.
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