159km from CT

The charming fishing village of Paternoster is one of the oldest coastal towns along the West Coast. Over the years Paternoster has bravely held on to its heritage and simple ways. The town remained a fishing village, but locals also welcomed the prospects of tourism.

Be mesmerized by the fishermen’s colourfully painted ‘bakkies’ (boats) going out to sea, Paternoster’s pristine beaches, and the white West Coast-style cottages dotting the shoreline. Round pale boulders protrude from a horizon of cobalt water and seagulls circle the sky, while life in Paternoster drifts on at an unhurried pace. Paternoster offers watersport activities such as; canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and boat trips.

Paternoster, meaning “Our Father” derives its name from the prayers of ship-wrecked Portuguese sailors. On 23 October 1910, the Lisboa ran aground on Soldiers Reef near Paternoster. The wreck of the Lisboa is particularly interesting because it was the first occasion that radio telegraphy was used to summon help by a ship in distress on the South African coast.