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ABOUT WITSAND

Gateway To The Garden Route

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The Garden Route starts where the Overberg ends: on the Witsand side of the Breede ("Broad") River. Witsand is a little diamond waiting to be discovered, offering visitors its perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. Known for its pristine beaches, thriving marine life, and charming village atmosphere, Witsand provides a captivating destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Read on to find just some of the things that make Witsand so special.

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WITSAND EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS

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LANDSCAPE AND NATURAL BEAUTY

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Witsand - aerial view

Witsand is renowned for its stunning natural land- and seascapes. The village is situated at the mouth of the Breede River, one of the few navigable rivers in South Africa. This unique location creates a diverse environment where freshwater meets the ocean, resulting in rich estuarine ecosystems and breathtaking scenery. The area is characterized by its white sandy beaches, from which Witsand (meaning "white sand" in Afrikaans) derives its name. These beaches stretch for miles, offering ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing.

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HISTORY

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Barry Memorial Church Witsand

The Barry Memorial Church. The Historical Monuments Commission plaque on the building reads:

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"This church was built by the Barry family in 1849 when Port Beaufort was a flourishing port for ships of the Port Beaufort Trading Company (later Barry And Nephews) which plied regularly between Cape Town, Port Beaufort and Malagas from 1823 to 1882."

Witsand is not only rich in natural beauty but also steeped in cultural and historical significance. The area has a long history of human settlement, dating back a hundred thousand years to the earliest humans and, more recently, the pastoral Khoisan people. Evidence of their presence can still be seen in the form of shell middens, cave paintings and ancient artifacts scattered along the coast. The Blombos Cave archeological site, just up the coast between Witsand and Stlbaai, is of particular significance, and the area has given its present-day name to a Stone Age technique of flint tool-making - Stillbay
 

Fast-forward 99,800 years to modern times. Witsand consists of 2 places, Witsand itself and the adjacent Port Beaufort. The two places are joined, with the intersection of Main Road and Barracouta Street being the official dividing line. Both are situated on what was originally a farm called Westfield, which had been owned by the Moodie family since the 1830's. The name "Witsand" came into use in the late 1860's when people started coming to the area on holiday, to distinguish it from what was then the industrial area of Port Beaufort. Because of the decline of the port, the town became known to the outside world simply as Witsand. It has continued to gain popularity as a tourism destination, and the conjoined areas now consist almost entirely of holiday homes.

 

Witsand has a compelling history deeply intertwined with maritime trade and the entrepreneurial vision of Joseph Barry, an English settler who left an indelible mark on the town during the 19th century.​ Barry arrived from England in the mid-1800s, lured by the region's strategic location at the mouth of the Breede River and its potential for agricultural and fishing industries. Before his arrival, Witsand was already known as a trading port, however this gained momentum with his arrival. In 1850, recognizing the area's fertile lands and abundant marine resources, Barry established a bustling port (Port Beaufort) to facilitate the transportation of local agricultural produce to Cape Town. This included wheat, wool, ostrich feathers and livestock. His endeavors not only fueled economic growth but also attracted settlers and traders to the burgeoning community.
 

Barry's influence extended beyond commerce. Alongside his family, he became integral to the social and cultural fabric of Witsand, contributing to the establishment of local institutions and infrastructure that shaped the town's development into a thriving coastal settlement.
 

Central to Barry's enterprise was the SS Kadie, a steamship commissioned to enhance trade between Witsand and Cape Town. The SS Kadie, operational from the late 1850s until she sank six years later, navigated the waters of the Breede River Estuary, playing a pivotal role in facilitating commerce and transport. After almost 250 voyages, the SS Kadie foundered on the sandbank at the mouth of the Breede River in 1864. 160 Years later, she remains a visible wreck, a poignant relic of a glorious, bygone era in Witsand's history.
 

Despite his success, Barry's business empire faced challenges with the advent of railways in South Africa during the late 19th century. Just as his ships had been faster and more efficient than ox-wagon transport, steam trains diminished the demand for coastal shipping routes overnight, leading to the decline of Witsand's port and Barry's commercial ventures. The economic landscape shifted, impacting the livelihoods of residents and reshaping the town's economic trajectory. In the late 19th Century, Witsand became a holiday destination for residents of the prospering surrounding area, which later became known as the Garden Route. Attracted by the excellent fishing at the Breede River's mouth and the white sandy beach, the first holiday homes built by the townspeople were little more than reed huts, a far cry from some of the opulent buildings that line the river today.
 

Today, Witsand stands as a testament to its rich maritime heritage and the pioneering spirit of Joseph Barry. The Barry Memorial Church and the remnants of the SS Kadie's wreck continue to evoke the town's storied past as a bustling port and serve as a reminder of its enduring legacy in the Western Cape's coastal history.

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MARINE AND BIRD LIFE

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Southern Right whale lobtailing

One of Witsand's most celebrated attractions is its whale-watching opportunities. Known as the "Whale Nursery of South Africa," Witsand is a prime location for observing Southern Right whales. Every year, from June to November, these majestic creatures migrate to the warm, sheltered waters of St. Sebastian Bay to calve and nurse their young. Up to 60 mothers are present in the bay at any one time, with the fathers remaining further out to sea. On a quiet night, you can hear them calling to each other. When, after 3 months, the baby whales are big enough, the whales make their way back to Antarctic waters. But, while they are here, visitors can witness joyful displays of breaching, tail slapping, lobtailing, sailing, spy hopping and other behaviors from vantage points along the shore or from boats.

In addition to whales, the waters around Witsand teem with diverse marine life. The Breede River estuary is home to a variety of fish species, such as Spotted Grunter, Kabeljou (also known as Kob or Shiny Salmon) and, in season, Garrick (also known as Leervis - "leather fish" because of their lack of scales - and renowned as the "Cavaliers of the Ocean" for their fighting spirit). These and many others make Witsand a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The estuary also makes for a variety of angling experiences, with beach, rock, river, offshore and fly-fishing all being on the cards. Bait and tackle are on sale at several shops locally, and there are several boat chartering companies in town.

The estuary also supports vibrant birdlife, with species such as African Fish Eagles, Blue Cranes (South Africa's national bird), various types of kingfishers, Black African Oystercatchers, Greater- and Lesser Flamingos. Cape Shoveler, Common and Caspian Terns, White-fronted Plovers and hundreds of other species frequently spotted in the area.


Also see our
Activities page

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ADVENTURE AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

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kitesurfing drone shot

For those seeking adventure, Witsand is best known for its world-class kitesurfing. The large lagoon at the mouth of the Breede River provides ideal conditions for flat-water kitesurfing, making Witsand the premier destination for this sport in South Africa. The expansive, shallow lagoon offers steady winds and smooth water, perfect for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers. The combination of reliable wind conditions and the safety of the flat-water lagoon attracts kitesurfers from around the world, eager to experience the thrill of skimming across the water against the backdrop of Witsand's stunning scenery. The Breede River also offers excellent opportunities for other water sports such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The river's calm waters and gentle currents make it an ideal spot for beginners and families. More experienced adventurers can explore the river's many inlets and channels, discovering hidden coves and secluded spots along the way.Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore in and around Witsand. The De Hoop Nature Reserve, located nearby, offers a network of trails that wind through fynbos-covered hills, coastal dunes, and wetlands. These trails provide opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including bontebok, eland, and Cape mountain zebra. The reserve is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 260 species recorded.
 

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ACCOMMODATION AND LOCAL CUISINE

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plate of seafood

Witsand offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From cozy guesthouses and self-catering cottages to luxurious beachfront villas, there is something for everyone. Many of these establishments boast stunning views of the ocean or river, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. We at Waves@Witsand manage many of these holiday rentals. For a list of them, please click here.

The village is also home to several excellent restaurants and cafes, where visitors can sample delicious local cuisine. Seafood is a highlight, with fresh fish, prawns, and calamari featuring prominently on menus. Traditional South African dishes, such as bobotie and braai (barbecue), are also popular and provide a taste of the country's rich culinary heritage.

RESTAURANTS

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CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

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sustainable tourism - leave only footprints

Efforts to preserve Witsand's natural environment are a key focus for the local community. Conservation initiatives aim to protect the area's unique ecosystems and biodiversity, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty. The Breede River estuary is a designated marine protected area, and strict regulations are in place to manage fishing and other activities to prevent overexploitation. Visitors are encouraged to engage in responsible tourism practices, such as minimizing waste, respecting wildlife, and supporting local conservation projects. Eco-friendly accommodation options and tours are available, allowing visitors to enjoy their stay while minimizing their environmental impact.


​LOWER BREEDE RIVER CONSERVANCY TRUST
Phone:  028 537 1296  |    Website

INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP (OCEAN CONSERVANCY)
Website

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COMMUNITY AND HOSPITALITY

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Witsand community members

One of Witsand's most endearing qualities is its sense of community and warm hospitality. The village is home to a close-knit community of less than 600 residents who take pride in their town and welcome visitors with open arms. Whether it's chatting with local fishermen, participating in community events, or simply enjoying the relaxed pace of life, visitors often find themselves charmed by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. As an indication of the town's independent-mindedness, Witsand is the only town in South Africa (and perhaps the world) where Bitcoin is accepted in payment by the majority of the town's businesses.


 

WITSAND BOWLS CLUB​​​​​

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GETTING HERE AND AROUND

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malgas pontoon

Witsand is easily accessible by road, located approximately 300 kilometers from Cape Town. The scenic drive takes around three and a half hours, passing through picturesque towns and rolling countryside. Alternatively, visitors can fly into George Airport, located about 150 kilometers away, and hire a car for the drive to Witsand. Once in Witsand, getting around is straightforward, with most attractions and amenities within walking distance or a short drive away. The village's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its charm and beauty.

Witsand is a destination that captivates the hearts of all who visit. Its stunning natural landscapes, rich marine life, and world-class kitesurfing make it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Whether you're gliding across the lagoon on a kiteboard, watching whales from the shore, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach, Witsand offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of South Africa's Garden Route.

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