Cape Infanta, Whale Coast
The little village of Infanta lies at the mouth of the Breede River on the western bank. The sister village of Witsand lies right opposite on the eastern bank. This area is virtually undeveloped and offers those who love nature fishing, beaches and fynbos the perfect unspoiled spot to get away from it all.
And then there are the whales. Cape Infanta serves as a whale nursery for the Southern Right whales who visit these shores from June to November each year. This area is considered one of the best whale watching areas in the country.
With the Breede River being so wide this is also one of South Africa’s best kite surfing spots. For those who enjoy surfing, bring along your board. There are four surf spots namely Dangles closest to the river mouth -this is only for pro’s; Rondeklip closer to the Infanta side – there is a big round rock where you drop into the wave; Kamakazi’s -to the left of the slipway. And last but not least is Johnny’s Corner – it is right in the right hand corner and only works with east swell and north winds.
The beach at Cape Infanta is mostly rocky with perfect reefs for spear fishing and surfing. The ocean is also perfect for scuba or snorkeling and there is a wide variety of sealife and fish.
No jet skis or skiing is allowed for 20km upstream from the mouth towards Diepkloof/Malgas which is also a popular holiday destination.
The fish in the river are mostly grunter, cob, bream, steenbrass and kolstert. The Breede River also has the world record for the biggest bullshark/zambezi ever caught. However, please check your fishing licence as to whether you can catch this species, or any species, as the fine for catching a non-allowed species is high. One can also go tuna fishing at certain times of the year.
The De Hoop nature reserve borders Cape Infanta and has many hiking trials including the famous Whale Trail which is done do 3 times a year. The reserve is also one of the best whale watching sites in South Africa.
Access to Cape Infanta is along a gravel road off the N2 approximately 9km on the Port Elizabeth side of Swellendam.
The other way of reaching Infanta is from Witsand – you need to cross the Breede River via the Malgas Pont.
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