Founded in 1922 and known as “the jewel of the West Coast”, this historical town was once a whaling station but has now transformed into one of the busiest holiday destinations on the West Coast.

Reverse view of the Southern side of the lagoon.

Some of the original houses on the Southern side of Langebaan.

Langebaan is situated just 100 kilometres away from Cape Town, alongside the Langebaan Lagoon. Just before you get to Langebaan town centre you will see, on the left side of the linking road, Langebaan Country Estate.

Apartment development on the beach front.

There are some interesting looking shops in Langebaan.

As one drives through the town, you can take a right turn at the 5th stop street and come to the beach area of Langebaan where all the sports action takes place and there are also some great sea food restaurants.

Restaurants at the main beach area

Fishing in Langebaan lagoon.

There is no more space for new houses along the edge of the lagoon in this section of Langebaan so all the  newer development has taken place on the hills that overlook the lagoon.

As one goes back out of the town centre, a left turn will take you to Saldanha Bay, via many of the new housing developments and also past one of the most famous restaurants in the area – Die (The) Strandloper.

Signpost to Die (The) Strandloper.

If you enjoy seafood then The Strandloper is an essential destination. The Strandloper is a busy restaurant so book well in advance! Also, be prepared for a long gastronomic feast – it’s common to spend four hours eating here!

Images and Text courtesy of Pat Bromilow-Downing, of Gone Fishing

On the other side of the lagoon at Langebaan is the West Coast National Park. The Park was established in 1985 with the aim of conserving the Langebaan Lagoon and surrounding landscapes, which also includes the islands in Saldanha Bay and the area from Yzerfontein to Langebaan.

The West Coast National Park.

Geelbek Visitor Centre.

Good sign posting in the park

The habitats in the park are unique and varied. Its salt marshes and wetlands, together with the granite islands in Saldanha Bay, cover an area of over 32,000ha and are ideal for the large breeding population of sea birds and also the growth of lowland fynbos.

Why did the tortoise cross the road?

Houseboats at Kraalbaai

Cast of “Eve’s Footprint”.

The weather on the day of my visit to the park was overcast and miserable so, I didn’t get to see much wildlife apart from the tortoises, a few snakes and a couple of wild ostriches. Although, I was told that alot of game can be seen in Postberg when it is open in spring.

Vondeling Island on the seaward (Atlantic) side of the park.

Houseboats at Kraalbaai

There are 4 different options for both hiking and cycling trails. Kraalbaai and Preekstoel are great for just relaxing on the beach and having a family braai. There are also kayaking, windsurfing and kite-boarding facilities. Also, if you are lucky enough, you can watch majestic whales frolicking in the seas at Tsaarsbank from August to November.

As with much of the west coast - rough seas and rocky shoreline.

Another view of Kraalbaai.

Images and Text courtesy of Pat Bromilow-Downing, of Gone-Fishing

You can see more places of interest by clicking here.