Witsand, Cape Whale Coast
Witsand is situated at the mouth of one of the largest, most navigable rivers in South Africa and is rich in diverse species of fish and bird life. The Breede River is recognised as one of the best fishing estuaries in the country with tidal action that reaches far upstream.
In addition, the unspoiled, quiet area of the St Sebastian Bay houses the single largest winter migration population of Southern Right Whales and is affectionately known as the “whale nursery”. These gentle giants may either be viewed from the coast line at very close proximity or through a local boat based whale watching operator. In addition, at the beach restaurant there is a telescope on the roof – a whale watching platform that magnifies the whales up to 10 times. Whale-watching season starts in June and lasts until November each year.
Investigating from a helicopter in October 1999, Dr. Best, a whale expert, confirmed a count of 233 whales in the Bay. On a good day, a whale watcher may observe up to 70 capering whales.
Witsand, like its sister village, Infanta, on the opposite bank of the Breede River, is a paradise for fishermen. The estuary is widely regarded as the best estuarine fishing spot in SA. The upper reaches of the river are renowned for its bass, while the lower reaches are a Cob fisherman’s paradise – Cob exceeding 50kg in weight are regularly caught in the river. The rock angler will also have good catches along the coastline. Please note that catch and release is strongly encouraged.
Witsand offers a 4km long clean unspoilt beach which is the reason for the name Witsand (White Sand). A 4 km walk along the beach at low tide will take you to the well-known Moodie’s Well. There are safe swimming spots for days in the sun. Parents with smaller children also like the calm swimming spots along the river.
All kinds of water sports are up for grabs on the Breede, including canoeing, sailing, spear-fishing, skiing and windsurfing. Water-skiing on the Breede River is allowed beyond the 5D-mark, where the Slang River flows into the Breede River, towards Malgas.
Cruise up the Breede River and watch out for birds! Fish Eagles, Kingfishers, Oyster Catchers, Ospreys, Pels Fishing Owls and Blue Cranes are often spotted.
Hike the popular Whale Trail in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, a 54 km trail renowned for its diverse fynbos vegetation, magnificent dunes and whale watching opportunities.
The nearby De Mond Nature Reserve lies at the mouth of the Heuningnes River. It supports several species of small animals and has a rich and varied birdlife, making it ideal for birdwatching.
The Pont at Malgas is the last hand operated pont in Southern Africa used for vehicle and cattle crossing across the Breede River. It is the only way to cross the river apart from by boat and is an interesting experience.
| More info on the Cape Agulhas |
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