Some of Cape Town’s most enchanting experiences lie beyond the city limits. Just 90 minutes north, the West Coast greets you with whitewashed cottages, turquoise waters, and real coastal living. If you’re looking to add a coastal escape to your Cape Town travel guide, a day trip to Paternoster and Langebaan offers the perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and authentic West Coast charm.
Why Visit the West Coast?
The West Coast feels worlds away from Cape Town’s urban energy. Life slows down here. Fishing boats drift in harbours, seabirds glide overhead, and the air carries the scent of salt and local fynbos. It’s the kind of place where you can sink your toes into soft sand, enjoy seafood straight from the ocean, and watch the Atlantic stretch out to the horizon. Best of all, you can take it all in on a day trip and still be back in Cape Town by evening.
Paternoster: Coastal Village Charm
Start your journey in Paternoster, one of the oldest fishing villages on the Western Cape coast. The moment you arrive, you’ll understand why artists, writers, and travelers are drawn here. Picture-perfect white cottages with thatched roofs and bright blue shutters line sandy streets. There are no chain stores or commercial developments – just small-town West Coast character.
What to Do in Paternoster
Stroll the Beach
Paternoster’s beach stretches for kilometres, offering quiet spots for walks, photography, family fun, or simply sitting with the sound of waves. The sand is soft underfoot, the breeze is light, and the sea shifts from turquoise to deep blue as the light changes..
Visit the Cape Columbine Lighthouse
Just south of the village, this working lighthouse stands on rugged cliffs overlooking the ocean. The short drive and walk are worth it for the views alone. If you time it right, you might spot whales during the season (June to November).
Explore Local Art & Design
Paternoster has become a hub for local artists and craftspeople. Small galleries and studios showcase everything from driftwood sculptures to handmade ceramics. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir to take home.
Where to Eat
Paternoster is famous for its seafood, and for good reason. The catch comes straight from local boats, and you’ll taste the difference. Head to Wolfgat if you’ve managed to snag a reservation (it’s been named one of the world’s best restaurants), or try Gaaitjie for a more relaxed vibe with equally fresh seafood. Noisy Oyster is another local favourite, known for its oysters, mussels, and langoustines.
Make sure to try snoek, the fish locals love. Grilled, smoked, or in a traditional potjie, it’s always full of flavour.
Langebaan: Lagoon Life
After soaking up Paternoster’s tranquillity, head 30 minutes south to Langebaan. Where Paternoster is rugged and rustic, Langebaan is all about the lagoon—a massive body of calm, turquoise water that’s perfect for water sports and relaxation.
What to Do in Langebaan
Hit the Water
Langebaan Lagoon is a favourite for kitesurfers, paddleboarders, and kayakers. The water is shallow and gentle, which makes it welcoming for beginners. Rental shops along the beach offer gear and lessons if you’re keen to try something new.
If you’d rather keep things simple, you can swim in the clear water or wander along the shoreline. Outside of peak holidays, the lagoon feels wonderfully uncrowded.
Explore the West Coast National Park
This protected area wraps around Langebaan and offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and (in spring) spectacular wildflower displays. If you’re visiting between August and September, the park bursts into colour as daisies and other blooms blanket the landscape.
Enjoy the Main Beach
Langebaan’s main beach is perfect for a stroll after lunch or a bit of people-watching. There’s a relaxed energy here, with families picnicking, dogs playing in the shallows, and kiteboarders zipping across the lagoon.
Where to Eat
Langebaan has a great selection of restaurants with lagoon views. Try Pearly’s for seafood and cocktails, or Die Strandloper for a traditional West Coast beach braai experience (though this is a fantastic experience, it requires a booking and a full afternoon).
Planning Your Day Trip
Getting There
The drive from Cape Town to Paternoster takes about 90 minutes along the R27 coastal route. Rolling farmland, ocean glimpses, and wide skies make the journey part of the adventure. From there, Langebaan is just 30 minutes south, so visiting both in one day is easy.
Best Time to Visit
The West Coast is beautiful year-round, but spring (August to September) brings wildflower season, and summer (December to February) offers warm, sunny days perfect for swimming. Winter (June to August) can be cooler and windier, but it’s also quieter and great for whale watching.
What to Bring
Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. If you’re planning to swim or try water sports, bring a swimsuit and towel. A light jacket is handy too, since coastal winds often pick up in the late afternoon.
After Your West Coast Adventure
Whether you’re wandering through fishing villages, chasing wildflowers, or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of lagoon life, this day trip is a highlight in any Cape Town travel guide. A day on the West Coast leaves you refreshed, and there’s something especially rewarding about returning to Cape Town in the evening – sun-soaked, relaxed, and ready to unwind.When you’re deciding where to stay in Cape Town, choosing accommodation that combines luxury with proximity to the city’s best experiences makes all the difference. After your coastal adventure, you can return to O’Two for ocean views, elegant surroundings, and everything you need to unwind.
When it comes to where you stay, choosing accommodation that combines comfort with easy access to the city’s best experiences makes all the difference. So, after your coastal escape, enjoy the ocean views, elegant surroundings, and luxury at O’Two.
