Gansbaai Accommodation
Ganders & Geese
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in De Kelders
Overberg / Whale Coast
Looking for a pet-friendly and child friendly getaway to the lovely town of De Kelders just outside Gansbaai? Our fully equipped self-catering house (Sleeps 4, maximum 6 with extra 2 "trundle" beds suitable for children in the lounge). …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Salted Fynbos Staying
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Franskraal
Overberg / Whale Coast
Salted Fynbos Staying provides self catering accommodation in Franskraal near Gansbaai in the Western Cape's Overberg & Whale Coast region. This self catering house (sleeps 8) has the perfect location, right on the seafront. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Aire Del Mar Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Kleinbaai
Overberg / Whale Coast
Aire Del Mar Guest House provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Gansbaai in the Overberg / Whale Coast region in the Western Cape. Aire del Mar is ideally situated in Kleinbaai (sometimes referred to as Van Dyks Bay) for the viewing of the Great Whi …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sea Star Cliff
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in De Kelders
Overberg / Whale Coast
Sea Star Cliff is a luxury lodge providing guest house accommodation in De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast region of the Western Cape. The luxuriously appointed guesthouse was designed and decorated with luxury in mind to create a... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Whale Watch Accommodation
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in De Kelders
Overberg / Whale Coast
Whale Watch Accommodation is situated in De Kelders, Gansbaai, and offers quality self catering accommodation for a family or group of friends on holiday. The house is ideal to accommodate 4 guests, however, a total of 6 guests can be accommodated. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Whale Cove A104
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in De Kelders
Overberg / Whale Coast
Whale Cove A104 offers self catering apartment accommodation on the beachfront at De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast region in the Western Cape. Whale Cove A104 (sleeps 6) is a four-star rated, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury apartment. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Crayfish Lodge Sea & Country Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in De Kelders
Overberg / Whale Coast
Crayfish Lodge Sea & Country Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast in the Western Cape. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Pearly Beach Holiday House
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Pearly Beach
17km from Gansbaai
Pearly Beach house is a spacious self catering home, sleeping up to 12 guests on the Pearly Beach seafront, near Gansbaai, with 180 degree sea views and easy access to rock pools in front of house and two nearby beaches. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lagoon View
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hermanus Lagoon
19.5km from Gansbaai
Lagoon View offers self catering accommodation in Hermanus in the Western Cape's Overberg and Whale Coast region. Looking for a quiet self catering getaway with fantastic views. This large stylish home (sleeps 7) overlooks the Hermanus Lagoon and is ideal …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Nantucket
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Voelklip
20.3km from Gansbaai
Nantucket offers self catering accommodation in Voelklip, Hermanus in the Overberg / Whale Coast region, Western Cape. Experience champagne air, sweeping panoramic ocean and mountain views, majestic meandering mountain walks... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Pacem
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Voelklip
20.5km from Gansbaai
Pacem offers visitors self catering accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Located in the Hermanus suburb of Voelklip it has a magnificent view on the mountain as well as sea views. Pacem is situated in a quiet area... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Hermanus Beach Club
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hermanus
20.5km from Gansbaai
Self Catering chalet accommodation in Hermanus, 3.2 km from Village Square. First Group Hermanus Beach Club features 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom self catering chalet accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, fitness centre and a bar. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
House on Westcliff
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
20.6km from Gansbaai
House on Westcliff provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. A stone's throw from the cliff paths overlooking Walker Bay is House on Westcliff. This boutique Bed and Breakfast comprises six... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Anchor's Rest
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
20.6km from Gansbaai
Anchor's Rest offers the option of bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Situated in the quaint seaside village of Hermanus, 120Km from Cape Town. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
On The Cliff Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
20.7km from Gansbaai
On The Cliff Guest House offers accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Hermanus Central on the Whale Coast, Western Cape. Situated on the famous cliff paths of Hermanus and is also walking distance to the old harbour in the town's centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Norfolk Guest House
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Hermanus
21km from Gansbaai
Norfolk Guest House offers accommodation on a limited self catering or room-only basis in Hermanus, and is ideally situated within easy walking distance to all the amenities and a stones throw from the cliff path, famous for unforgettable whale viewing. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 104
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
21.1km from Gansbaai
Bayview 104 is a spacious self catering apartment situated near the water’s edge in Hermanus, on the Western Cape's Whale Coast and can accommodate 4 guests comfortably and is a stone’s throw away from the water. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 303
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
21.1km from Gansbaai
Bayview 303 offers luxury self catering apartment accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast region, Western Cape. Our seafront apartment is centrally situated between the swimming beaches and the Hermanus town centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Fig Tree Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hermanus
21.3km from Gansbaai
Fig Tree Cottage offers self catering accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast. situated in the quiet suburb of Eastcliff, away from the hustle and bustle of the Hermanus village centre, yet conveniently close enough to leave your car... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Potting Shed Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
21.3km from Gansbaai
The Potting Shed offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Hermanus Central on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Annamarie and David welcome you to our bed and breakfast accommodation. Enjoy personal service at this owner-run establishment. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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Action off Gansbaai ©bellamy.andrew, Licence![]()
Shark Cage Dive Boat in Gansbaai ©Manoel Lemos, Licence![]()
"Cage goes in the water, you go in the water. Shark's in the water". (Famous line from the movie JAWS). ©Valerie Hinojosa, Licence
Gansbaai
Gansbaai, or "goose bay" is a little fishing village at the foot of the Dynefontein Mountains. Renowned as the "big two" town, Gansbaai is where both Great White Sharks and Southern Right Whales are found in large numbers, east and west of the Danger Point Peninsula respectively.
The sea bird breeding colonies on Dyer Island and the Cape fur seals on Geyser Island attract sharks to the channel between, now known as "shark alley". July to December sees the annual return of the Southern Right Whale to the waters around Gansbaai to mate and calve. Boats may enter either area only with a permit and conservation is of prime importance.
This unpretentious town was named after the wild geese that frequented the freshwater fountain next to the present harbour in Gansbaai. Gansbaai is also in the heart of the Fynbos biome, home to thousands of plant-species, many of which are some of the rarest on earth. Most of the area is protected in conservancies and reserves but there are organised hikes in the region.
Gansbaai, located in the Overberg/Whale Coast region of the Western Cape, South Africa, is renowned for its rich marine life, stunning coastal scenery, and outdoor adventures.
Here are five things to see and do in and around Gansbaai:
Shark Cage Diving:
Great White Sharks: Gansbaai is famously known as one of the best places in the world to experience shark cage diving with great white sharks. Several operators offer safe and thrilling shark cage diving excursions where you can get up close with these magnificent predators in their natural habitat.
Marine Big 5: Besides sharks, Gansbaai waters are home to the Marine Big 5: whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins. A boat tour might give you the chance to see all five species.Dyer Island and Marine Eco-Tours:
Penguin Sanctuary: Visit the Dyer Island Penguin Sanctuary, which rehabilitates and rescues injured and sick African penguins. Learn about the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting this endangered species.
Seal Colony: Take a boat trip to Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, home to a large colony of Cape fur seals. The nearby waters are also great for spotting dolphins and, during the right season, whales.Walker Bay Nature Reserve:
Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic hiking trails in Walker Bay Nature Reserve. The Klipgat Trail leads to the Klipgat Cave, an important archaeological site with stunning views over Walker Bay.
Whale Watching: During the whale-watching season (June to November), Walker Bay is an excellent spot to observe southern right whales breaching and frolicking close to shore.Danger Point Lighthouse:
Historic Lighthouse: Visit the Danger Point Lighthouse, built in 1895. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the rugged coastline and learn about the history of shipwrecks in the area, including the famous Birkenhead wreck.
Scenic Views: The lighthouse offers spectacular vistas of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, making it a great spot for photography.Platbos Forest:
Ancient Forest: Discover the Platbos Forest, an ancient indigenous forest located just a short drive from Gansbaai. Wander through the forest's tranquil trails, surrounded by a diverse array of trees, plants, and birdlife.
Nature Walks and Tours: Join guided tours to learn about the unique flora and fauna of Platbos, or explore on your own. The forest provides a serene environment for meditation and nature appreciation.
These attractions offer a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and educational experiences in and around Gansbaai, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Overberg/Whale Coast region.
More on shark cage diving:
Shark cage diving in Gansbaai is a thrilling and unique experience that attracts adventurers and marine enthusiasts from around the world. Here’s an overview of what you can expect and some important details about shark cage diving in Gansbaai:
Overview:
- Location: Gansbaai, often referred to as the Great White Shark capital of the world, is situated on the Overberg coast of the Western Cape, South Africa.
- Main Attraction: The primary attraction is the opportunity to see great white sharks up close from the safety of a cage submerged in their natural habitat.
Key Details:
Tour Operators:
Marine Dynamics: A well-known operator offering cage diving experiences with a focus on conservation and education. They provide informative briefings and excellent customer service.
White Shark Projects: Another reputable operator that provides a thrilling and educational experience. They also focus on shark conservation and research.
Shark Lady Adventures: Offers professional cage diving tours with experienced guides and a strong emphasis on safety and environmental responsibility.The Experience:
Departure Point: Most tours depart from Kleinbaai Harbour, a short distance from Gansbaai.
Boat Ride: The boat ride to the diving site, typically near Dyer Island, takes about 15-20 minutes. During the ride, guides provide an overview of the trip, safety instructions, and information about the sharks.
The Cage: The cage is attached to the side of the boat. Participants enter the cage, which is partially submerged in the water, and view the sharks through the bars. No diving experience is necessary as you will be using a snorkel.
Shark Viewing: Great white sharks are attracted to the boat using a chum mixture. Once they are in the vicinity, they often come very close to the cage, providing incredible viewing opportunities.Safety:
Safety Briefing: Before entering the water, participants receive a thorough safety briefing. Operators ensure that all equipment is in excellent condition and that all safety protocols are followed.
Professional Guides: Experienced guides and marine biologists are typically on board to ensure the safety of all participants and to provide educational insights about the sharks and the marine ecosystem.Best Time to Visit:
Peak Season: The best time for shark cage diving in Gansbaai is from April to September when shark activity is at its highest. However, sharks can be seen year-round.
Whale Watching: If you visit between June and November, you might also catch sight of southern right whales in the area.Conservation and Education:
Research Contribution: Many of the operators are involved in shark research and conservation efforts. By participating in a shark cage diving tour, you are often supporting these important initiatives.
Educational Component: Tours typically include an educational component, where you can learn about shark behavior, biology, and the importance of conservation efforts.
What to Bring:
- Warm Clothing: The weather can be cool and windy, especially on the water. Bring warm clothing, even in the summer.
- Swimwear: Wear your swimwear under your clothes. Wetsuits are provided by the tour operators.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun while on the boat.
- Camera: An underwater camera or a waterproof case for your phone can help you capture incredible moments.
Shark cage diving in Gansbaai offers an unforgettable experience, combining adventure with education and conservation. It's an excellent way to gain a deeper appreciation for one of the ocean's most fascinating and misunderstood predators.
- De Kelders (2.60km)
- Van Dyks Bay (3.15km)
- Kleinbaai (3.31km)
- Franskraal (5.47km)
- Hermanus Lagoon (17.44km)
- Pearly Beach (17.45km)
- Stanford (17.88km)
- Voelklip (18.65km)
- Hermanus Area (19.60km)
- Hermanus (19.60km)
- Eastcliff, Hermanus (19.96km)
- Westcliff, Hermanus (20.16km)
- Zwelihle (20.16km)
- Northcliff, Hermanus (20.37km)
- Sandbaai (22.25km)
- Fees van die Ganse (0.08km)
- Dyer Island Cruises (0.18km)
- De Kelders Drip Cave (3.47km)
- Voelklip Island (3.78km)
- Gansbaai Golf Club (3.79km)
- Strandveld Museum (4.90km)
- Klipgat Cave (5.09km)
- Danger Point Lighthouse (6.66km)
- Uilkraalsmond Nature Reserve (9.44km)
- Fairhill Private Nature Reserve (10.19km)
- Walker Bay Nature Reserve (10.72km)
- Walker Bay (11.14km)
- Waterkop Private Nature Reserve (11.97km)
- Kleinrivier Private Nature Reserve (12.64km)
- Stanford Glendower Bird Fair (18.79km)
- Freewheeling in Stanford (18.86km)
- Pearly Beach Horse Trails (19.01km)
- Sunset cruise on the Stanford River - African Queen Cruises (19.04km)
- Grotto Beach (19.79km)
- Hermanus Sea Rescue Music Festival (20.14km)
- Voelklip Beach (20.23km)
- Kammabaai Beach (20.35km)
- Hermanus Cliff Path (20.37km)
- Hermanus Whale Festival (20.55km)
- Old Harbour Museum (20.61km)
- Hermanus Golf Course (21.18km)
- Pearly Beach Nature Reserve (21.68km)
- Hermanus Country Market (21.82km)
- Fernkloof Farmers Market (21.89km)
- Maanschynkop Nature Reserve (21.99km)
- Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary (22.09km)
- Hermanus Flower & Eco Fair (22.42km)
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve (22.59km)
- Hermanus Wine & Food Festival (23.55km)
- Hermanus Times Kalfiefees (24.86km)
- Soetfontein Nature Reserve (25.97km)
- Hoek-van-die-berg Private Nature Reserve (27.64km)
