Roughly 30km north of Cape Town city centre, Big Bay is one of two Bloubergstrand beaches (the other is called Little Bay or Small Bay). This entire beach area falls within a Marine Nature Reserve and is renowned for diving delicacies like Cape rock lobster.
Big Bay is a fantastic family-friendly beach, offering excellent waves, long white sandy shores and plenty of dining and shopping options. Below are a few interesting things to do when visiting Big Bay.
Outdoor Activities
Big Bay and Small Bay are divided by a rocky point, with Big Bay usually receiving the full brunt of the Atlantic swell. Expect cold water and big swell channeling into the bay, producing its world-famous waves.
Naturally, these conditions attract surfers, Stand-Up Paddleboarders and bodyboarders when the waves are pumping. There are several beginner surf schools offering lessons under the watchful gaze of lifeguards on duty throughout the year.
When the howling South Easter starts pummeling the bay, windsurfers and kitesurfers come out to play, taking full advantage of the big swell and wind direction.
You also have the option of strolling along miles of untouched coastline that run north from Big Bay all the way to Melkbosstrand.
Dining Options
The beachfront has a wide variety of great restaurants to choose from, serving everything from classics like fish and chips to sophisticated fining dining options.
Alternatively, pop into a coffee shop for breakfast, grab a Belgian waffle for lunchtime dessert or takeaway sushi for dinner.
Sunsets and sundowners have become synonymous with this area, too. Patrons frequently flock to the restaurants lining the grassy banks for refreshing cocktails, ice cold craft beer on tap and internationally acclaimed wines while gazing over the bay towards Table Mountain and Robben Island.
Shopping
Wander through Eden on the Bay and you’ll find vintage boutiques, miscellaneous bargain bins and high-end luxury garments for sale. Or venture down the road to the Seaside Village Shopping Centre for more shops, boutiques, restaurants, and other retail conveniences.
Accommodation
If you’re looking for a place to stay, there is no shortage of beachside apartments, B&Bs and surf lodges within walking distance of Big Bay. However, accommodation does dwindle during the peak season, especially in summer, as holidaymakers plan their vacation to this popular tourist hotspot.
