Still Bay Accommodation

Still Bay (Stilbaai) is a beautiful resort town off the beaten track. You can quite easily spot whales here during the migration period. But whales are not the only creatures that Still Bay is famous for. Eels populate the streams that run close and through the town and some say the eels are so tame that you can feed them by hand.

The best place to see the eels are in the streams in front of the historical "Paling-gat" house, one of the two national monuments in Still Bay (Stilbaai). The Still Bay (Stilbaai) houses are great examples of the unique "Strandveld" architecture.

Another point of interest is the old fish-traps that the Still Bay (Stilbaai) locals use to catch fish. These traps are no more than stonewalls constructed between the high water and low-water marks. When the tide gets low, the fish are trapped in the pools and are easily caught.

During peak tourist season Still Bay (Stilbaai) is alive with sunbathers, swimmers, and fishermen. Tours are available to Melkhoudsfontein, where most of the occupants are descendants of the Khoi-San, who were the original inhabitants. Close to the settlement is a small botanical garden named "Soete Inval". In this garden are most of the herbs that the Khoi has been using for ages for medicinal and cooking purposes.

Still Bay, also known as Stilbaai, is a serene coastal town situated on the Garden Route in the Western Cape of South Africa. It’s a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and diverse activities.

Here are five things to see or do in Still Bay:

1. Beaches and Water Activities:
Swimming and Sunbathing: Still Bay is renowned for its pristine, sandy beaches which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Water Sports: The area is ideal for various water sports such as surfing, kite surfing, and kayaking. The Goukou River, which flows into the Indian Ocean, is particularly popular for these activities.
Fishing: Both the river and the sea offer excellent fishing opportunities for enthusiasts.

2. Still Bay Whale Watching:
Whale Watching: During the whale migration season (June to November), Still Bay becomes a prime location for spotting Southern Right Whales. The whales can often be seen from the shore, or visitors can take a boat tour for a closer look.

3. Ancient Fish Traps:
Historical Fish Traps: These ancient tidal fish traps, also known as “visvywers,” were originally created by the Khoisan people. The traps are still maintained and used by the local community, providing a fascinating glimpse into the historical fishing methods.

4. Still Bay Nature Reserve:
Hiking and Nature Walks: The Still Bay Nature Reserve offers several scenic hiking trails that wind through fynbos vegetation and along the coastline. It's a great place to enjoy the natural beauty and spot local wildlife.
Bird Watching: The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers.

5. Inverroche Distillery:
Gin Tasting and Tours: Visit the Inverroche Distillery, famous for its handcrafted gins made from indigenous fynbos botanicals. The distillery offers informative tours and tasting sessions where visitors can learn about the gin-making process and sample the unique flavors.

Bonus: Additional Activities:
Blombos Cave: For those interested in archaeology and history, a visit to the nearby Blombos Cave is a must. This site has provided significant insights into early human behavior and is known for its ancient artifacts.
Puttergill Farm: This local farm offers a range of activities, including farm tours, cheese tasting, and interactions with farm animals, making it a delightful outing for families.
Golfing: The Still Bay Golf Course is an excellent spot for golf enthusiasts, offering a well-maintained course with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Still Bay offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a variety of activities that cater to different interests, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing and enriching holiday.