Yzerfontein

Yzerfontein is a small, quiet and unspoiled seaside village located on the west coast of South Africa, about 85 kilometres to the north of Cape Town. The town’s main source of income is derived from fishing and tourism and is well known for its natural beauty, hospitality and tranquillity. Approximately 60% of all the line fish caught along the West Coast is caught here in the small craft harbour and the town is renowned for its snoek and crayfish.

Some of Yzerfontein’s best known attractions include the pristine 16 Mile Beach, which is unique because it is the longest uninterrupted sandy beach on the coastline of South Africa, stretching all the way from the main beach northwards to the Postberg Nature Reserve, which is located within the West Coast National Park. Pearl Bay is to the south of Schaap Island and this beautiful sandy beach provides great views of Table Mountain, as well as Dassen Island.

Yzerfontein is well-known for is its beautiful carpet of wild flowers, which can be seen in spring (from August until October). During spring the Southern Right whales come to calve here and there are many great places to do some whale spotting due to the town’s elevation. Dolphins and Humpback whales can also be spotted regularly from the many different vantage points available in the area.

Other activities you can enjoy in and around Yzerfontein include taking long walks on the beach, beachcombing, one of several hiking trails, mountain biking, bird watching, as well as a number of water sports like surfing, angling, sailing and skiing.

There are also a number of private game reserves in the area where you can look out for wildlife like the gemsbok, bontebok, steenbok, duiker, eland, kudu, bat eared fox, Cape mountain zebra, African wild cat and caracal. Some of the reserves offer game drives and walks, as well as a range of 4X4 trails, hiking and nature trails.

Ancient fossils dating back over 5 million years can be seen at the West Coast Fossil Park. On nearby Dassen Island in the west there is a colony of African Penguins. Guided tours are offered at the !Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre, where you can learn all about the life and heritage of the indigenous San people, as well as purchase souvenirs at the arts and crafts shop.

• Pristene 16-mile long beach
• The West Coast National Park
• Buffelsfontein
• Tienie Versveld Nature Reserve
• Rondeberg Nature Reserve
• Dassen Island
• Skaap-Eiland
• The spring flowers
• Watching the whales and dolphins
• The Blombosch 4×4 Nature Trail
• The Buffelsfontein 4×4 Trail
• Yzerfontein Main Beach
• Pearl Bay Beach
• !Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre

The weather is quite tourist friendly throughout the year with sunny days that seldom drop below 10 degrees in temperature during winter. The area receives most of its rain during winter (from April to October). During the summer it is hot and windy with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees. The area is also popular with surfers due to its great weather and surf conditions.

• Incredible views
• Fresh sea air
• Clean white beaches
• Lots of exercise
• Excellent surfing, wind surfing and kite boarding conditions
• Rest and relaxation

Pick a West Coast destination to explore:

• Bloubergstrand
• Churchhaven
• Langebaan
• Paternoster