Mossel Bay, the official gateway to South Africa’s Garden Route, blends history, coastal adventure, and natural beauty. With golden beaches, thrilling ocean activities, and heritage-rich sites, it’s a perfect mix of seaside fun and cultural exploration.
1. Diaz Museum Complex
Why visit: A historical site marking Bartolomeu Dias’s 1488 landing, showcasing maritime history.
Highlights: – Life-size replica of Dias’s caravel – Shell museum – 500-year-old Post Office Tree
Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM
Entry: R50 (adults), R20 (children)
2. Santos Beach
Why visit: A Blue Flag beach ideal for families, swimming, and relaxed beach days.
Highlights: – Calm waters – Beachfront restaurants – Kayak and paddle rentals
Timing: Sunrise to sunset
Entry: Free
3. St. Blaize Lighthouse & Trail
Why visit: A scenic coastal walk beginning near a 19th-century lighthouse with spectacular cliff views.
Highlights: – Dolphin and whale spotting – Caves and coastal cliffs – Photo-worthy scenery
Timing: Trail: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Lighthouse view: daylight hours
Entry: Free
4. Point of Human Origins Caves
Why visit: An archaeological site in a sea cave with evidence of early modern human life.
Highlights: – Guided cave tour – Ancient tools and art – Dramatic cliffside location
Timing: By appointment only
Entry: R300–R400 per person (guided only)
5. Bartolomeu Dias Museum Shell Collection
Why visit: A colorful collection of shells from around the world, highlighting marine biodiversity.
Highlights: – Rare and exotic shells – Educational exhibits – Aquarium section
Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM
Entry: Included in Diaz Museum ticket
6. Cape St. Blaize Cave
Why visit: A natural cave at the base of the cliffs that was once used by Stone Age inhabitants.
Highlights: – Easy walk from town – Ocean backdrop – Archaeological significance
Timing: Daylight hours
Entry: Free
7. Mossel Bay Zipline
Why visit: The longest over-ocean zipline in the world, stretching over cliffs and waves.
Highlights: – 1.1 km long – Speeds over 80 km/h – Thrill with a sea view
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: R450 per person
8. Mossel Bay Harbour
Why visit: A bustling working harbor with fresh seafood spots, boat trips, and local charm.
Highlights: – Seal and dolphin cruises – Oceanfront dining – Fish market
Timing: Open all day
Entry: Free (tours priced separately)
9. Shark Cage Diving
Why visit: An exhilarating chance to see great white sharks up close in their natural habitat.
Highlights: – Professional guides – Safety briefings – All gear included
Timing: Morning trips (seasonal)
Entry: R1,600–R2,000 per person
10. ATKV Hartenbos Waterpark (nearby)
Why visit: A fun waterpark for kids and families just outside Mossel Bay in Hartenbos.
Highlights: – Waterslides – Lazy river – Splash pools
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: R100–R150 per person
