Braaing is a pastime regularly enjoyed by all South Africans, regardless of race, creed or religion. We love nothing more than to gather with friends and family to enjoy the warm African sunshine and the enticing aromas of food being cooked over an open fire or in some cases a gasbraai.
The wild natural beauty of the Cape West Coast offers several spectacular locations to indulge in this local tradition, so gather together your favourite people, pack a cooler box and head for the great outdoors. Otherwise known as a BBQ, this is also the one gastronomical occasion where even men love to get into the culinary swing of things.
There is a 101+ things to do and see in and around the West Coast, if you feel like exploring the area further follow our Culture and Foodie self drive routes.
Bloubergstrand
Kleinbaai (Small Bay)
Located in Bloubergstrand is only a short drive from Cape Town and boasts spectacular panoramic views of Table Mountain and the city. A grassed picnic area and a upgraded jungle gym and slides for the Children. A popular spot for picnics, small kiddies parties and you can have a gasbraai. The long sandy beaches are popular with dog walkers, kite flyers and those wanting a peaceful stroll along the beach. If you feel like a sundowner after a day on the beach, pop cross the way to the popular Blue Peter Hotel which has an outside area and lawn overlooking the beach and Robben Island.
Where: from the M14, go down Pelegrini street
Coordinates: -33.799121, 18.460435
Eerste Steen Resort, Blaauwberg Nature Reserve
Situated in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, Eerstesteen offers the opportunity to spend time unspoiled natural surroundings. With spectacular panoramic views of Table Mountain, the city and Robben Island, and only 30 minutes from Cape Town, it’s the perfect escape from the bustling city. Those who want to relax can swim in the ocean or stroll along the beach, while those who are more energetic can paddle out for a surf, windsurf or take a stroll and indulge in some bird and seasonal whale-watching. There are plenty of picnic and braai spots as well as a kid’s play area. There is a vehicles fee of R24 and adults pay R18 while children older than 3 pay only R9. Pensioners pay R9 each. If you are in possession of a City of Cape Town Nature Reserve season ticket or membership card of the Friends of the Blaauwberg Conservation Area (FoBCA) www.bca.org.za, the listed member will be allowed free entry.
Where: M14
Coordinates: -33.769722, 18.444722
Silwerstroomstrand
Situated just north of Melbosstrand, Silwerstroomstrand has a popular coastal resort with a 1km long sandy shore. Set within a bay, a rocky point called Wintersteen provides protection from the swell for safe swimming in the sea, and there is also a tidal pool for those wanting a warmer dip without the waves. Braai facilities are available, please be aware that no alcohol is allowed. A slipway is available for boat launching and the shore angling is good too. There is also accommodation in the form of chalets and a campsite for those who want to spend more than a day here.
Where: R27
Coordinates: -33.719276, 18.455871
West Coast National Park
Tsaarsbank
Situated in the West Coast National Park near the Postberg section, Tsaarsbank has a great picnic area with braai facilities and views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also a great whale spotting spot between August and October. While in the park, there are also loads of other great activities, including hiking, mountain biking and birding so make a whole day of and enjoy all that the West Coast and the park have to offer. Please be aware that no alcohol is allowed at these facilities.
There is no charge at the braai area but a small conservation fee is payable at the gate. Citizens with a South African ID it is R45 per adult / R22 per child. Speed up the wait at the gate; download the gate registration form
Where: From the N7, use the Langebaan entrance. t +27 (0)22 772 2144
Coordinates: -31.056015, 18.281064
Preekstoel, Kraalbaai (known previously as Flamingo Bay)
Even though you can’t braai on the beach itself, there are great braai spots on the low bluff at Preekstoel on adjacent the bank of the Langebaan Lagoon. At low tide the water recedes 100m or more away from the shore and the white sand is perfect for picnicking, so braai up above and carry your food the short 20m walk down to the beach to enjoy on a blanket on the soft sand. During the peak summer months of December and January, West Coast National Park is very popular so be sure to come early to avoid queues and to find a braai-spot as these are first-come, first-serve and cannot be reserved. Please be aware that no alcohol is allowed at these facilities.
There is no charge at the braai area but a small conservation fee is payable at the gate. Citizens with a South African ID it is R45 per adult / R22 per child. Speed up the wait at the gate; download the gate registration form
Where: From the N7, use the Langebaan entrance. t +27 (0)22 772 2144
