Lambert's Bay
280km from CT
Lamberts Bay known as the ‘Diamond of the West Coast’, has preserved its own west coast fishing village culture. Long beautiful white beaches, abundant marine life thriving in cool blue waters, bird-life and beautiful flowers are a few of the reasons Lamberts Bay has become one of the most popular tourist destinations on the West Coast.
The first crayfish factory was started by Mr Lindström in 1918; the price was 1/6 and 2/6 per hundred crayfish. For many years the fishing industry formed the core of the Lambert’s Bay economy and the picturesque harbour is a testimony of this.
Lamberts Bay was originally known as Otterdam and was first surveyed by the the Royal Navy between 1826 and 1840. The town was later named after Sir Robert Lambert who was in charge of the survey of the area. During the Anglo Boer War, British ships started visiting the bay. The result of these visits was that the one and only ship to be lost by the British during the war, was wrecked on Steenboksfontein near the present day Lamberts Bay. Many bits and pieces of the Sybille are on display at the local museum. The town of Lamberts Bay was proclaimed in 1913.
Sightseeing
With fishing boats and diamond boats hoping to get lucky. It is a beautiful harbour and be sure to capture great pictures on your camera.
Sandveld Museum
The museum is packed with history and houses 15 different exhibits eg. “Old” Lambert’s Bay, HMS Sybille Gunboat which ran aground in 1901, Photograph collection, Fish industry and fishing community, Book & Bible collection, Archaeological display, Horse mill and Farm implements and Clothes and embroidery from bygone days.
Steenbokfontein
Situated 9km south of Lamberts Bay, Steenbokfontein Farm is home to rich histories, breath-taking views, and one of the most impressive cave sites in the Western Cape. Permit holders can also visit the historic Khoisan Caves on the farm.
Sports and Adventure
The Dunes 4x4 Trail
Is a well-run guided 4×4 route for anyone wishing to improve their sand-driving skills. This is also a great place to hone your sand-driving skills before setting off on a longer trip to Namibia. The facilities at the campsite include a large covered lapa with shade cloth covering the floor. There are big tables, benches and washing-up facilities.
Fishing
Anglers tend to congregate at Die Mond, just north of the harbour, because of it’s popularity for catching West Coast steenbras, galjoen and hottentot. There are several gullies among the rocks to the south of the harbour that are also popular. Other good spots for hottentot are Melkkopbaai and Duin se Rif.
Boat Trip
Go on a boat trip from the harbour using Lambert’s Bay Boat Charters.
Quadbiking at the dunes
You have various options and packages available to suit each ones preference and no experience is necessary. Booking is essential so please be sure to make arrangements prior to arrival.
Bird Island
The island, which is almost three hectares in size, is connected to the mainland via a breakwater. It is an important breeding and roosting site for seabirds. Cape fur seals can be seen sunning themselves on the island’s rocks. There are signs across the island providing background information on the West Coast’s birds. Visitors should cross the breakwater carefully. Entrance is prohibited if rough seas make it too dangerous to cross the breakwater.
Golf
Play the 9-hole course at Xamarin Guestfarm
Where to Stay
Steenbokfontein
A very unique farm stay including “Die Hokkie”, “Die Grotjie” and the “West Coast Quarry”. These establishments offer amazing views from the farm and are the perfect place to escape for a weekend or holiday.
Lambert’s Bay Hotel
300m from Sandveld Museum, Lamberts Bay Hotel offers accommodation with a bar, free private parking, a shared lounge and a garden.
96 op Strand
A great home away from home for an enjoyable seaside holiday and is large enough for the whole family or a big group of friends.
Silver Knight
3 Sea-Front Units, 20 meters from the sea
On Buitekant
Spacious multi storey, 100m from the sea
Lambert’s Bay Hotel
Contact: 027 432 1126
Website: lambertsbayhotel.co.za
Lambert’s Bay Beachfront
Silver Knight
Contact: 083 455 1099
Cnr of Malkopbaai & Strand Str.
7 On Buitekant
Contact: 083 455 1099
Xamarin Guest Farm
Accommodation: 083 264 1128
Camping & Golf: 083 250 4706
Website: xamarin.co.za
Arendzicht
Steenboksfontein
Contact: 083 458 1575
Website: westcoastwonders.co.za
Shop & Eat
Roestyd Restaurant
Beautiful view & Cocktails with excellent food. Safe children play area.
Mad Hatter’s Coffee Shop
4 Main Rd – for delicious coffee and cake
Alle Dingen
7 Church St. – Gift, Decor Shop and Restaurant
Muisbosskerm Open-Air Restaurant
Contact: 027 432 1017
Website: muisbosskerm.co.za