Heading West: Top Things to do in and Around Dwarskersbos

Dwarskersbos is a quaint seaside community where the only thing loud enough to break the silence is the rhythmic crashing of the Atlantic Ocean against its bordering beach, Dolfynstrand. Having said that, there is plenty to do in the area! Located a short 15-minute drive from the slightly larger coastal village of Velddrif and its Port Owen, where the Berg River meets the ocean, there is a vast spectrum of enchanting outdoor and leisure activities to keep the whole family entertained. Here are a few of our favourites!

Picnic or sundowners on Dolfynstrand

The whole community of Dwarskersbos is bordered by the white sands of Dolfynstrand and the Atlantic Ocean, both a short walk away from almost any starting point. Of course, when it comes to what there is to do on the beach, you are limited only by your imagination! Go for a swim or a romantic walk, read a book on the sand, take a picnic, watch the sunset, or all of the above.

Treat yourself to a spa day

The Port Owen Marina Resort & Spa is located a short 15 minute’s drive from Dwarskersbos, in the neighbouring town of Velddrif. La Vita Spa features two single treatment rooms, hydro facilities, and a variety of treatment options so you can de-stress, get your muscles untangled, and settle into your visit or holiday in luxurious style. Operational hours are 08:00 to 22:00 daily. For more information, refer to their website or contact +27 (0) 22 783 1144.

Berg River cruises

Tollie’s Boat & River Cruises depart morning and late afternoon from the Port Owen Slipway at the Riviera Hotel in Velddrif for a leisurely 1.5 hour cruise up the beautiful Berg River. The boat, captained by the amusing and informative Captain Tollie, accommodates 32 guests, is child friendly, and affords wonderful birdwatching opportunities, as well as spectacular sunset views! Find them on Facebook or contact +27 (0) 79 763 6966.

A birdwatcher’s paradise

Located on the West Coast near the mouth of the Berg River and the Langebaan bird sanctuary, Dwarskersbos is a prime location for birds and birding. The area’s mudflats, estuaries, coastal scrub, and fynbos offer a wide variety of habitats, where 127 different species of water birds and 93 terrestrial birds have been identified. These include 25 species that are considered to be of national importance and at least five ‘Red Data’ listed species. For more information about birdwatching in the lower Berg River wetlands, please click here.

Go river or deep-sea fishing

A member of Velddrif Tourism, A&M Fishing Charters offers enthusiasts a fully equipped boat and the deep area knowledge and seasoned experience of Skipper Andry Barnard. So, whether you want to head inland on the Berg River or strike out west to go deep-sea fishing or whale-watching, A&M Fishing Charters is your port of call. All you need is your fishing and bait licence, which is available at the local Post Office. To book, visit the website or contact +27 (0) 71 550 8491.

Eat out

Dwarskersbos and the neighbouring Velddrif are home to a constellation of humble, home-style restaurants, seafood shacks, and bars where you can count on a quintessential West Coast welcome and delicious cuisine! For something a little fancier, head to Russells on the Port or Charlie’s Brewhouse in Port Owen. And for a more detailed list of places to eat in and around Dwarskersbos, check out our previous blog post.

Visit the Rocherpan Nature Reserve

Rocherpan is a coastal nature reserve (part of the Cape Nature Group) teeming with birds and colourful wildflowers, particularly in the spring. The 930-hectare reserve, which lies 10 km north of Dwarskersbos, consists largely of a seasonal vlei that is usually dry between March and June but, over winter, receives the water it needs to host a vibrant array of fauna and flora. Rocherpan was established as a nature reserve in 1966, and the adjacent section of the Atlantic Ocean was declared a marine reserve in 1988. Visit the Cape Nature website or contact +27 (0) 79 203 1092.