Jacobsbaai on the Cape West Coast, just 10km north of Saldanha Bay, was only developed about 40 years ago. Situated around a bay with 2km of white sandy beach, the West Coast architecture has been strictly followed, with plenty of space between groups of houses. This all helps to retain a natural environment, with only gravel roads, that slow the pace of cars and safeguard the tranquillity of this beautiful spot. It is mostly permanent residents working in Vredenburg or Saldanha who live here, or people enjoying their retirement at the sea. However, Jacobsbaai has become popular with those looking for an ideal weekend getaway only 150km from Cape Town.
The coast line is made up of seven individual bays with rocky outcrops. There is Kwaaibaai, which is popular with surfers, Jacobsbaai, Smalbaai and Moerie se Baai, which are great for launching boats and Bamboesbaai and Toothrock, favoured for diving, surf fishing and crayfishing.
There are lots of hottentot and galjoen in the small inlets and at Moerie se Baai. And from the sandy beaches of Swartriet, kabeljou and white steenbras are often caught. Crayfish diving is rewarding at Jacobsbaai and Plat Klip is reputed to be the best fishing spot.
A few kilometres north of Jacobsbaai is Swartriet, a private holiday resort with 30 self-catering houses next to the sea. There is a long, sandy beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Fishing, wind surfing and crayfish diving are also popular activities at the resort.
The village only has one small fascinating café, the Willie Magrietjie, and The Weskusplek is the only restaurant in Jacobsbaai, and is situated on the beach north of Jacobsbaai. There are only two industries which are both situated out of sight from the village – the crayfish factory and the abalone farm.
Jacobsbaai is one of the lucky spots that enjoys a wealth of spring flowers adding to its beauty. Dolphins and whales can be spotted in the surf from June to November and for those who love hiking in nature, there is the challenging 17km hiking trail between Tietiesbaai and Swartriet. Birding enthusiasts will also enjoy the typical marine species.
To get to Jacobsbaai, take the R27 from Cape Town and turnoff to Saldanha Bay. From Saldanha Bay take the 10km gravel road to Jacobsbaai.
For more information about this area, visit ShowMe West Coast.
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