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1. Harold Porter Botanical Garden
The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens can be found within the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. As you enter the gates you will find 10 hectares of cultivated gardens, most likely with baboons frolicking in between the neatly trimmed shrubs. Then there is 190.5 hectares of natural coastal fynbos that includes iridescent waterfalls, amber pools, deep gorges, forests, flats with restios and dunes adjacent to the beach. It is perfect for a hike where you can cool down in the water and there is also a restaurant where you can enjoy a light snack. Things To Do in Betty's Bay
2. Stony Point Penguins
There only two shore-based African Penguin colonies in South Africa, Boulders Beach and Stony Point. The penguins began to breed at Stony Point after the old whaling station was abandoned in 1930. The best time to visit these rare tuxedo birds is in the morning or late in the afternoon as they are normally out at sea to find food during the day, sometimes venturing up to 20km far. Unfortunately due to various adverse conditions their numbers have been reduced to a mere 170 000. Due to this drastic decline in numbers the area is now protected and visitors are only permitted to walk along a wooden pathway that curves through the colony. Visitors can also expect to see the rare White-breasted and Cape Cormorants and the Bank Cormorant. Things To Do in Betty's Bay
3. Old Whaling Station
In 1913 a whaling station was built at Stony Point. The natural harbour and the influx of Southern Right Whales from June to December made it a great location for such a station. At its peak they were catching up to 300 whales in season. However, the station was not without its problems and was forced to shut down in 1930 when the price of whale oil declined. All that remains of the Old Whaling Station now are foundations of some of the main buildings, old blubber tanks, the rails line and the original slipway. For a glimpse into the past the Whaling Station restaurant has some of the original vintage images on display. Although it is good to note that now the whales are celebrated and are a magnificent attraction for tourists and locals alike. History of Betty's Bay
4. Beaches
The coastline along Betty's Bay is mostly made up of rocky outcrops that are met by crashing waves, but every now and then the rocks open up and give way to pristine beaches that are perfect for walks, swimming and surfing. Rolling sand dunes greet visitors and stretch out either side of the 4km main beach. At the end of Betty's Bay you will find a 200m sand dune drop that is perfect for sand-boarding. The view is splendid regardless of where you are on the coast of Betty's as the ocean is laid out in front of you with the backdrop of mountains behind. The beaches are empty most of the time and during peak season it fills up just enough to entice the holiday feeling. Beaches Gallery
5. Belgian Chocolatier
Gaboli is a chocolate sensation run by the Belgian Master Chocolatier Gaspard Bossut. The decadent business is run by Gaspard and his wife from their home and a visit holds a very personal encounter with the art of melting, tempering and moulding chocolate. Every single chocolate is hand-made and you can find a range of 100g chocolate slabs, diabetic chocolate, dark chocolate, hot stixx perfect for melting in hot milk and legitimate marzipan. Gaspard makes his own ganash that will melt in your mouth and offers a range of flavours, a popular one being the chilli chocolate balls that will have you doing handstands in the shower. Gaboli Chocolates
6. Sand Boarding
Strap both feet to a single board and soar down one of the best sand boarding dunes in Africa. The highest dune is approximately 200 metres and accommodates for every level of expertise. Beginners can easily slide down the dune sitting on the board until they get their balance to stand up and gain momentum. It's the perfect place to practice for snowboarding, bond with colleagues over a team building experience or simply enjoy the adventure. There are experienced sand boarders that offer daily tours and will be able to instruct and teach to ensure a good time is had by all. Outdoor Adventures in Betty's Bay
7. Pottery Gallery
Amongst the fynbos thickets on the beach side of the main road you can find John the Potter's Gallery. Before even entering the gallery there is enough to spark the interest of anyone interested in art and pottery. Colourful mirror collages, comical figures, spiky heads and a twisted wooden structure are dispersed across the walkway. Once inside, the walls are lined with shelves that are filled with crockery and detailed sculptures. It is great for browsing or buying something to give your home more character. The artwork is designed by John and hand-made by John and his assistant, each piece feels unique and is made with great care. Arts & Culture in Betty's Bay
8. Hiking
Blessed with a spectacular natural setting of mountain and ocean, Betty's Bay is perfect for a scenic hike. There are a number of trails marked for hikers but even a simple stroll along the coast will offer great views. Harold Porter Botanical Gardens is home to the majority of hikes in Betty's Bay and you can choose between wheelchair friendly walkways, an ecosystem walk, meandering through the cultivated garden, taking short easy walks, exploring indigenous fynbos trails, hiking to waterfalls and venturing up advanced hikes that are not suitable for the lighthearted. Outside of the gardens there are several trails that include a beach walk and one that combines town attractions with nature. Hiking in Betty's Bay
9. Whale Watching
The Western Cape coastline is well known for its whale watching. Despite the variety of species of whales to spot, the most popular whale to see is the Southern right whale as it ventures so close to the coastline. The season begins around July when the whales make the journey from the Antarctic to mate and calve in our warmer waters. It is around December that the last whales start making their way back to the icy destination to feed. A drive down through the main road or a walk along the rocky coastline will reveal flapping tails and possibly breaches. Since the old whaling station closed in the early 1900s the population of Southern right whales has increased by approximately 7% per annum. They are a truly magical sight to behold. Things To Do in Betty's Bay
10. Holiday Town
Betty's charm lies in its natural beauty and serene ambience. Although the Stony Point Penguin colony brings in a lot of tourism, the village often has very few people. It gets busier during peak season yet it still never becomes overwhelming. The area first became a recognised holiday spot in the 1800s and to this day it still is, and for good reason. It is the ideal place for people to retire from a busy lifestyle and take the time to enjoy the smaller things in life. It is also very popular for holidaymakers who simply want to relax and while away the days with the incredible natural setting on their doorstep. About Betty's Bay
