hout and about

Hout Bay is one of the Western Cape's most picturesque destinations, offering its visitors a secluded hideaway from the busier parts of Cape Town. With ample amenities, an unhurried charm and a broad range of activities, Hout Bay is certain to keep you entertained.

Hout Bay is a bustling and sociable village, with a vibrant community atmosphere and unique energy. One can always find people chatting contentedly over a cup of coffee in one of its many quaint cafés, cycling along its scenic routes or enjoying an evening sundowner at a beachfront restaurant. The spectacular natural splendour of this place is unparalleled and both its residents and visitors enjoy Hout Bay's beauty to the full. 

The main street offers a variety of characterful and interesting shops, whilst the numerous shopping centres have major retailers to cater to all needs. Hout Bay also boasts an excellent indoor market at the Harbour over weekends, featuring gourmet cuisine and a bespoke range of locally designed products - a definite 'must-visit' for any newcomer to Hout Bay's charms.

For those who enjoy the relaxing benefits of retail therapy, the Mainstream shopping centre is also within walking distance of One on Beach and offers a range of quality shopping experiences, from bespoke home decor to boutique clothing. 

The Mainstream centre is also home to a large and superbly equipped Woolworths, South Africa's premier food and clothing retailer, making it easy to stock up on high quality ingredients and a variety of holiday necessities. 

There is also a delightful organic grocery store situated at the Centre, selling fresh, local produce for the health-conscious holiday maker. Should you enjoy starting your day with a delicious breakfast and strong cup of coffee, you could do so at the charming Allegria coffee shop where you can enjoy an authentic Italian espresso in a vibrant, sociable cafe.

Bustling harbour and nautical activities

Hout Bay’s busy and fully functioning harbour has a wonderful atmosphere and is a hub of activity, as it is has remained the centre of the local fishing industry for hundreds of years.

Enthusiastic fishermen eagerly sell their fresh catch of the day on the wharf, while delicious aromas emerge from the authentic fish and chip restaurants that are positioned a mere stone’s throw from the water’s edge.

The Harbour also serves as a departure point for a range of sea-faring adventures - visit the seal colony situated at a nearby island (and even snorkel with them, should you be daring enough), take a blissful sunset cruise on a yacht or try your hand at deep sea fishing.

One thing is certain, you will make memories that will last a lifetime.

AUTHENTIC South African CULTURE

Hout Bay is a unique microcosm of South African society, as it is home to a staggering spectrum of socio-economic groups. 

We always urge our guests to arrange a tour to visit Imizamo Yethu, Hout Bay's culturally diverse informal settlement, so as to offer them an unvarnished insight into the daily lives of the majority of South Africans. Many of South Africa's citizens remain in a state of abject poverty and yet somehow retain a sense of hope and optimism - experiencing Imizamo Yethu is both thought-provoking and inspirational.

A visit to Imizamo Yethy would not be complete without a cappuccino at Qunu Cafe. Situated in the Iziko Lobomi Community Centre in the township of Imizamo Yethu, this little cafe is filled with vibrance, charm and warm smiles.

With its inviting, bright colour scheme, delicious Nespresso coffee, tempting snacks and relaxed ambience, the Qunu Cafe is an unmissable experience.

Qunu Cafe's name was inspired by the humble rural village where a boy was born who would ultimately change South Africa, inspire the world and teach us all to act with greater love, compassion and tolerance towards one another. That little boy was called Rolihlala, and he became the man we know as Nelson Mandela.

A further unique element of the Qunu Cafe is the fact that it is 100% non-profit, as all of the surplus proceeds generated by this colourful coffee shop are  used for the purposes of maintaining and sustaining the Iziko Lobomi Community Centre.