This weekend we headed off to Hout Bay. If you have never been to Hout Bay, and this is not directed at Capetonians, it is a seaside town near Cape Town. However, if you live in Cape Town and don’t know where it is situated or have never been to there – shame on you. Hout Bay is nestled between mountains and sea, which creates a valley feel to this town.
If the weather is good, it gets quite busy in Hout Bay. Locals and tourists flock to this seaside town and stand in long queues to enjoy fish and chips from Mariner’s Warf, Fish on the Rocks and Snoekies. But we’ve discovered a gem in Muriel’s Muchies – fresh grilled or fried fish and calamari. And their ice creams are the best.
But it’s the view that captures my attention whenever I visit Hout Bay. Walking out onto the harbour and taking in the sight of the blue sea and majestic mountains – it is something remarkable.
The lookout from the harbour onto the start of Chapman’s Peak Drive.
There are charter boats that will take you for a cruise to Seal Island, Duiker Island and Chapman’s Peak.
This picture captures a seal in the water. In Hout Bay seals come into the harbour. The local fisherman will feed them pilchards and they will launch out of the water to grab it.
Captured in the picture above is a fleet of fishing boats docking in the harbour. The Hout Bay fishing industry is known for its tuna, crayfish and snoek. Walking out onto the harbour, you notice that the life of a fisherman is not easy. The lines on their faces and their rough hands paint a picture in your mind – that this life is not for the faint of heart. For them it is the only way of survival, an income to put bread on the table.
The picture above captures an older fishing boat that sank in the harbour.
As you walk to the other side of the harbour, you will find Hout Bay Yacht Club. Boasting a fleet of yachts that are docked in the harbour. You immediately pick up the distinct contrast of life of two very different classifications of living.
Besides walking on the harbour and boat trips, Hout Bay is also known for it’s beautiful white sandy beach, bird watching, art and craft markets, horse riding and kayaking. If you are thinking of visiting Cape Town, please make sure you head to Hout Bay – you won’t be disappointed.
