HOUT Bay, around 30 minutes from Cape Town City Centre, is a harbour town teeming with award-winning restaurants, marine experiences and quaint art galleries.
If you’re on a budget, here are some pocket-friendly (and free activities) to try when you visit Hout Bay:
Explore
World of Birds & Monkey Park
Hailed as the Largest Bird Park in Africa, World of Birds & Monkey Park is ideal for animal and bird enthusiasts and those who want to take in nature. After you’ve wandered through the bird walkways, head to Monkey Jungle to get up close and personal with playful (and hungry) squirrel monkeys. The attraction, home to over 400 different species of birds and animals, also boasts the Robin’s Nest drink and snack shop and a Secret Garden.
Location: Valley Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Open daily from 9am-5pm.
Price: Adults: R 130, children (age 3-16): R 50, children (age under 3): free and pensioners and students (with card): R 85.
Visit: https://worldofbirds.co.za/
Seal Island boat trip
Head on an exhilarating boat trip to Seal Island to enjoy sightings of these gorgeous marine mammals and views of Sentinel Mountain. The weather-permitting activity takes place three times a day, at 9am, 9.45am and 3.15pm, and offers some grand landscapes. The 45-minute experience is the perfect way to start or end your day of exploration.
Location: Circe Launches, Hout Bay Harbour
Open daily from 8am to 5pm.
Price: Adults: R100, children: R50.
Visit: www.circelaunches.co.za/
Clay Cafe Hout Bay
Indulge in your ceramic masterpiece at Clay Cafe Hout Bay. A fun activity for all ages, guests can create magic from unfired bisque (already made pottery pieces) while tucking into some mouthwatering meals or lazing around in the picturesque garden. And, if you’re an ice cream fan, try out their indulgent range of flavours.
Location: Main Rd, Hout Bay
Open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Price: A standard rate of R40 studio rate, which includes three paints, firing and glazing, applies per person, plus the value of your selected items.
Visit: https://claycafe.co.za/home/
Fine Art Africa Gallery
If you’re into captivating narratives through striking pieces of art, then a visit to Fine Art Africa Gallery is a must-visit attraction.
According to the website, “Visitors will discover a collective ensemble of individual gallery spaces, each with their own identity and flair”.
The gallery is big on community development-allowing emerging artists from around the area the opportunity to showcase their creativity.
Location: 31 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm.
Price: Free entry.
Visit: www.fineart-africa.com/
Eat and drink
Fish on the Rocks
Dubbed one of the best fish and chip jaunts in the city, Fish on the Rock has received much praise from both local and international guests. Their menu items, which feature their famous hake/snoek and chips, are packed with flavour and prepared fresh.
This famed seafood eatery is perfectly situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean with a stunning backdrop of Chapmans Peak and passing fishing boats.
Location: 1 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Open daily from 9am-7.30pm.
Price: Fish and chips: R85.
Visit: fishontherocks.com/
Sinnfull Ice Cream
It’s hard to miss the bold building with the logo “Sinnfull Ice cream” firmly fixed on the black-coloured building.
Loved by locals, Sinnfull produces super-premium, handmade ice cream and sorbet specialising in unique flavours, including Berry Yummy, Cookies and Cream and Milk Tart.
Guests can pick a spot outside or inside and surrender to the comforting tastes and flavours.
Location: Harbour Rd, Hout Bay Harbour
Open from Wednesday to Sunday between 11am – 6pm
Price: From R35.
Visit: http://sinnfull.co.za/wp/
Hout Bay Harbour Distillery
Hout Bay Harbour Distillery is in the heart of Hout Bay harbour. Known as South Africa’s only Double World Award Winning Distillery, this family-run business produces world-class vapour-infused gin.
You will get a unique glimpse into the distilling process and learn about the creation of their world-class HBHD Craft Gins. End with a complimentary G&T cocktail.
Location: 31 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay
Open every Friday to Sunday. However, gin tastings can be enjoyed from Wednesday to Sunday when guests prebook.
Cost: From R100 per person.
Website: www.houtbayharbourdistillery.co.za
Delish restaurant
Delish restaurant stays true to its name with a vast menu offering everything from salads, burgers and curry to steak and freshly baked treats. The restaurant provides a variety of seating options, from tented areas and table settings under trees to cosy indoor nooks.
Location: 8 Beach Crescent, Hout Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
Open daily from 8am-5pm.
Price: Various.
