Strandfontein

Strandfontein, meaning ‘beach fountain’ got its name from a fountain on the beach from which the earliest residents of the area, the San and Khoisan used to drink fresh water from. Strandfontein is a coastal village in the Matzikama Municipality, in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It lies on the R362 and is flanked by Papendorp in the north and Doringbaai in the south. The town is only 60 kilometers from Lambert’s Bay and was initially only a small beach resort for farmers of the Namaqualand, but has evolved into a tourist destination for both locals and foreigners, particularly during flower season. According to a census done in 2011, the town had a total of 431 residents and 92 households. It lies on the Atlantic coast to the south of the mouth of the Olifants River, 240 kilometers north of Cape Town.

Strandfontein has beautiful, un-spoilt stretches of white sandy beaches that stretch for kilometers and the clear blue sea are huge attractions for both anglers and tourists looking for total relaxation, peace and tranquility. Fishing is excellent and with a permit there is an abundance of crayfish and mussels in the waters. The beach is safe for small children with a tidal pool for swimming and a playground to keep them entertained for the whole day. There is also a wide variety of watersports activities available for the more adventurous. The Bird Island Nature Reserve is nearby for the avid bird lover and during the wild flower season, late July to September, visitors can hike through the beaches which are covered with a spectacular array of colourful wild flowers. During late winter and early spring Strandfontein’s sandy cliffs provide excellent lookout points for whale watching.

Strandfontein is the perfect destination for a long, worry-less holiday and serves as a great stop over for visitors travelling to Namibia.