Nestled along South Africa‘s renowned Garden Route lies Mossel Bay, a coastal town brimming with natural beauty and many activities for visitors to enjoy. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to seaside strolls, Mossel Bay offers something for everyone.
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Here is a list of things to do in the beautiful Mossel Bay:
Go sandboarding
Experience the exhilarating thrill of sandboarding amidst the stunning coastal dunes. Dragon Dune is situated on private property just outside Mossel Bay and here you can experience the biggest and longest sandboarding dune in South Africa.
They offer adventurers of all levels the chance to glide down towering slopes of golden sand. There are three dunes located on the property and whether you’re a seasoned sandboarder or a novice looking for a new challenge, Dragon Dune provides expert guides and top-of-the-line equipment to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience. You’ll start on the baby dune before you slay the dragon at the end.
Soar down the dunes, feel the rush of adrenaline, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Spend the day at the beach
Visiting the beaches in Mossel Bay promises a blissful retreat for sun-seekers. With its pristine stretches of soft sand, the beaches offer the perfect setting for relaxation. Whether you’re basking in the warm sunshine, swimming in the refreshing ocean, or simply strolling along the shore, each beach in Mossel Bay boasts its own unique charm and breathtaking coastal views. From the tranquil shores of Diaz Beach to the bustling promenade of Santos Beach, there’s a beach for every mood and preference.
Don’t miss the great swimming spot located at the Point!
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Go hiking
Hiking in Mossel Bay offers an immersive journey through diverse landscapes, from rugged coastal cliffs to lush indigenous forests. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a challenge or a casual explorer looking to connect with nature, Mossel Bay’s hiking trails cater to all skill levels and interests.
Here are some hiking trails I highly recommend:
St Blaize Trail
The St Blaize hiking trail stretches from Mossel Bay to Dana Bay and offers stunning coastal views. The trail itself is moderate, but it can get tough if you attempt to do this during the hottest time of the day.
Start the trail near the Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse and continue along the dramatic cliffsides.
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Glentana Shipwreck
We all know that the Western Cape coastline is known for its storms, and this is the reason why the Glentana Ship went aground back in 1902. The walk to the Glentana Shipwreck consists mostly of a beach walk, with the occasional scrambling over rocks. It is a short 5km for a round trip, and can only be done during low tide.
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Climb to the top of the Cape St Blaize Lighthouse
The Cape St Blaize lighthouse was built in 1864 but has only recently been opened to the public, and now you can climb to the top.
The lighthouse stands 20.5m tall and here you can see Mossel Bay stretched out in front of you. You’ll also get an introduction to the history of the lighthouse before making your way up the steep stairs to the top.
Once you are done exploring the lighthouse, you can make your way to the restaurant situated at the bottom. You’ll still have a spectacular view of the ocean with a nice warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Explore Fransmanshoek Conservancy
I honestly don’t know why this place is so underrated. This is a free activity you can do and it is tucked away in the Vleesbaai area of the Garden Route’s scenic coastline. The area is shaped like a peninsula and is decorated with the most beautiful, orange-coloured rock formations. The Conservancy has a dirt road, but it is easily drivable by car.
This protected area boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the pathways winding through the rugged terrain, immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Sightsee the cave at Mossel Bay Point
At Mossel Bay Point you’ll find a cave with some history of the area. This is also the starting point of the St Blaize hiking trail. Here you can take stunning photos with the ocean as a backdrop. Just make sure to take a jacket with you when you visit the cave, as I’ve never been here when the wind wasn’t about to blow you away.
Look out for the iconic yellow frame
We all know about the yellow frames that are scattered all over South Africa which makes for the perfect photo opportunity to show that you’ve been to these specific landmarks. You can find one of these yellow frames right at the beach at the Point.
Go wine Tasting at Jakkalsvlei
Jakkalsvlei is a popular wine farm on the Garden Route and is about a 45-minute drive from Mossel Bay. Jakkalsvlei means Jackal’s Marsh and has been in the Jonker family since 1972.
The farm is called Jakkalsvlei because of the many foxes, jackals and wild cats that can be seen in the Langeberg mountains.
Jakkalsvlei was only opened to the public in January 2010 and now people can enjoy some wine tasting, and wine pairing and also a great restaurant.
Location: Herbertsdale
Operating Times: Every day from 10 am to 4 pm
Wine Tasting: (2024)
- 6 Jakkalsvlei wines – R60
- 13 Jakkalsvlei wines – R120
- All 4 Lord Jackal wines – R100
Wine Pairing: (2024)
- Fudge and Wine pairing – R95
- Non-alcoholic pairing – R120
- Cheese and Wine pairing – R125
- Chocolate and Wine pairing – R125
- Vegan food pairing – R135
- Charcuterie and Wine pairing – R145
- Macaron and Wine pairing – R145
- Dry meat and Wine pairing – R150
- Selection and Wine pairing – R150
- Tempura Prawns and Wine pairing – R150
- Lord Jackal Wine pairing – R250
You can check out their updated prices here.
Visit Hartenbos Pretpark
Hartenbos has so many great activities to keep the young ones busy and is a vibrant hub of family-friendly entertainment.
At the Pretpark there are a wide array of thrilling waterslides, swimming pools, and Put Put that is right on the seafront. Enjoy some endless fun.
See who is the best at the Put Put games and then make your way to the waterslides to cool off.
Zipline in Mossel Bay
According to my dad, this was the best experience he had in Mossel Bay. This Zipline is known to be the longest zipline in the world that goes over the ocean. It might be a bit expensive, but you don’t want to miss out on this experience.
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Grab a bite to eat
There are many great spots to eat at when you are in Mossel Bay.
Here are some of my favourites:
Delfinos
Delfinos is situated right on the beach at Mossel Bay point and has a very wide variety of food to choose from. Their portions are massive and you get a great view of the ocean.
St Blaize Lighthouse Restaurant
I might have mentioned this restaurant before, and in my opinion, you cannot get a better view than this! The prices are a bit pricey, but you do pay for the view as well. When we visited, they just opened so there weren’t any menus available. But I can say that the cake we ordered was delicious.
Visgraat Restaurant
Visgraat is in Grootbrak and is also right on the beach. This is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after you’ve visited the Glentana shipwreck. They also have a wide variety of food and drink choices.
Seeplaas
Think fancy! Seeplaas is also located in Grootbrak and it is such a gorgeous spot. Even though the vibe is all fancy, the price is not, which is why this restaurant will get a 10 out of 10 from me. You can either dine inside or sit outside and look over the vast ocean.
There is also a gallery that you can walk through with a small shop.
Sea Gypsy
Located at the harbour, you cannot get closer to the ocean. You’ll also have some friendly friends, seagulls, to keep you company. They have the best fish in Mossel Bay.
Drink coffee at Blue Shed
The Blue Shed is a rustic coffee shop right in the middle of town. You place your order at the counter and then make your way to a table and wait to be served. They have a selected menu, which consists of pies and sandwiches – both are delicious!
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Craft your own gin at Cape Saint Blaize Distillery
Cape Saint Blaize Artisanal Distillery was born in 2020 and is situated in the heart of Mossel Bay. Mossel Bay was called Saint Blaize in the olden days when Bartolomeu Dias landed here in 1488.
Here you can enjoy some Gin Tasting or Gin & Food pairings, which are available daily.
One other experience I can highly recommend is the Gin Masterclass which is around R750 per person. Here you can distill your own gin, learn all about the process, and take a factory tour. This experience takes about two hours and is available at 10 am or 6 pm. Booking is essential.
Visit Bartlomeu Dias Museum
The Bartlomeu Dias Museum was opened in 1989 and is known for the Post Office Tree. Explore the boat, wander around the gardens, and learn more about the history found here.
Operating Times:
- Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm
- Saturday and Sundays from 9 am to 4 pm
Shop at the Good Shed Market
Want to support locals? Then head on over to the Good Shed market located on Bland Street and see what they have to offer. This is also the perfect spot to find a souvenir for your trip. There are some food stalls here, and many more arts and crafts shops.
Go sailing
Explore the bay of Mossel Bay zwith a sailing tour. You’ll sail to Seal Island, the Point of Mossel Bay and then back to the harbour.
Price: Seal Island Trip (1.5 hours)
- R300 per adult
- R250 per kid under 12 years
- Free for kids under 2
- R250 per person for a group of 10+ guests
Take day trips exploring the rest of the Garden Route
The Garden Route is one of my favourite areas in South Africa and the coastline has so many great spots. So take a day trip exploring some of these beautiful attractions.
Cape Agulhas
Cape Agulhas is a short 3-hour drive and there are so many things to do to make this trip worthwhile. From visiting the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse to taking a photo at the iconic spot where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, seeing the Meisho Maru shipwreck, and eating at the most southern restaurant in South Africa.
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Wilderness
Wilderness is located close to George and is a 45-minute drive from Mossel Bay. I’ve seen some of the most beautiful sunsets in this area. Popular activities include the Map of Africa Viewpoint, Half Collared Kingfisher Trail, and the Red Berry farm.
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Knysna
Knysna is a harbour city just an hour and a half’s drive from Mossel Bay. Its sandstone cliffs separate the lagoon from the ocean and are also known to have the country’s largest indigenous forest. Things to do here include a day at Thesen Island, hopping onto a ferry and seeing this quaint town from the waters, and watching the sunset at Knysna’s Heads.
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Storms River
Storms River is in the Eastern Cape Province and is about 2 and a half hour’s drive from Mossel Bay. It forms part of the Tsitsikamma National Park and is where the Garden Route ends. Activities here include the short and easy hike to the Storms River suspension bridge, visiting the Tsitsikamma waterfall, and bungee jumping from the Bloukrans bridge.
Are you planning on doing a whole road trip exploring the Garden Route?
Where to stay
Here are some recommendations on where to stay:
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