There’s no need to splash out on a luxury hotel with our selection of coastal B&Bs. Read on to find out where you should be booking your seaside stay.
Ocean Eleven Guest House, Hermanus
The quaint coastal town of Hermanus is the perfect place to kick back, relax and soak up the Western Cape sun. Stay at Ocean Eleven, a Cape Cod, Colonial-style luxury guesthouse located just below the dramatic Kleinrivier Mountains. With the town’s reputation of being the ‘Riviera of the South’, Ocean Eleven doesn’t disappoint. Where else in the world can you watch whales frolicking in the bay from your bed? The beautifully decorated rooms each boast all-embracing sea views over Walker Bay.
Besides the view, breakfast is the next big thing. Try the delicious local free-range farm-fresh eggs, a range of cheeses from the nearby Klein River Cheese Farmstead and salami from the Karoo. The freshness makes the establishment’s breakfast a cut above the rest. Hot breakfast is made to order and the freshly caught smoked salmon is highly recommended. The first meal of the day is served in the breakfast room overlooking the pool deck with beautiful sea views.
Dotted along the pristine beaches, a stone’s throw from the guesthouse, are a number of charming village shops and superb restaurants just waiting to be explored. Up for something a little more strenuous? Then spend an afternoon hiking in one of the many beautiful nature reserves the area has to offer.
HOW MUCH? From R1 362ppspn in a double Standard Room, including breakfast. For more information, see oceaneleven.co.za
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Colona Castle, Cape Town
Perched on the mountains above a tranquil Lake District on the Cape’s warm False Bay coastline, Colona Castle is a charming Mediterranean-style retreat from which to explore the Mother City’s peninsula and winelands. All of the bedrooms cater for every comfort and convenience. The exquisite furnishings are combined with treasured antiques and art that have been collected over the years. Therapeutic massages and spa treatments are available upon request.
Gaze out the breakfast hall’s floor-to-ceiling windows, while the award-winning chef’s delicious culinary delights – an artful combination of the Cape’s finest and freshest organically grown ingredients – are placed in front of you. Fancy breakfast in bed? Just ask.
Some of the best bathing beaches are around, Muizenberg and Fish Hoek are a stone’s throw away. Other Cape Town tourist highlights are Boulders Beach, Cape Point Nature Reserve and the V&A Waterfront.
HOW MUCH? From R3 600pn for a two-sleeper room, including breakfast. For more information, see colonacastle.co.za
On The Beach Guesthouse, Jeffreys Bay
The perfect place to explore the exquisite east coast of South Africa, Jeffreys Bay is so much more than just a surfing spot; in fact, it’s a holidaymaker’s paradise. The bustling town is bordered on both sides by nature reserves and rivers. The beautiful Dolphin Beach takes the cake and the On The Beach Guesthouse is the perfect place to soak up the sun.
The rooms and suites are comfortable and elegant with understated decor and contemporary amenities. The vintage, handcrafted bar is a great place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail before dinner and a calming nightcap after. Unwind on the balcony after a day of soaking up the sun, or head to the smaller lounge to curl up with a book.
Indulge in a full breakfast buffet every morning with the freshest seasonal fruit as well as an à la carte option, including the house speciality of eggs Benedict with a difference. After breakfast, sip on a frothy cappuccino or latte, and watch as the dolphins and surfers share the same waves.
Feel like a late night dip? The guesthouse’s beautifully sculpted gardens wind down to the beach where a relaxing oasis awaits you. At any given time, you can walk down the bustling town streets and you’ll see people sipping on milkshakes or tucking into delicious meals alfresco at the sidewalk cafés.
HOW MUCH? From R1 820pn for a double Standard Room, including breakfast. For more information, see onthebeach.co.za
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The Beach House, Port Alfred
Located right on the spotless Port Alfred beachfront, stay at The Beach House and you can roll out of bed in the morning onto the soft white sand. Who can resist well-furnished rooms coloured in light blue and sand tones to reflect the seaside landscape? You’ll appreciate the gentle hospitality, too.
The breakfast buffet is wonderfully decadent, offering everything from fresh fruit juices to the popular fruit platter. Enjoy your morning feast in the open dining area while watching fishermen hard at work and dolphins playing in the breakers.
Vast white beaches that feel uncrowded, even in the height of summer, go on for miles, perfect for a romantic sunset stroll. If you feel like a change of scenery then visit the historical town of Bathurst, about 20 minutes away. Stop at the oldest licensed pub in South Africa, the Pig and Whistle, for a spot of lunch and to see the Big Pineapple. Golf fanatics will love the Royal Port Alfred Golf Club, less than five minutes away.
HOW MUCH? From R1 300ppspn a two-sleeper room, including breakfast. For more information, see thebeachhouseportalfred.co.za
Carter’s Lodge, Umhlanga
Unwind and recharge with a sundowner in hand, overlooking the lush suburb of La Lucia and the beach at Carter’s Lodge. From the moment you step out of the car, the Lodge’s quiet surroundings will relax you and you’ll feel right at home. Enjoy plush beds, soft towels and all the little extras that make your stay memorable. The bedrooms are elegantly decorated in neutral colours, with touches of brighter greens, blues and reds.
Delight in a generous continental and English breakfast served either in the quaint dining room or on the patio in the tranquil garden beside the rustic rock pool. Then, stroll 800m down the road and sink your toes into the soft golden sand, or take a walk across the road and you’re in the upmarket La Lucia Mall shopping complex.
HOW MUCH? From R525ppspn for a double room, including breakfast. For more information, see carterslodge.co.za
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Cheviot Place Guest House, Cape Town
Perfectly situated on the slopes of Signal Hill, overlooking Table Bay and Robben Island, this 105-year-old Victorian-style home in the bustling suburb of Green Point, provides a haven of tranquillity. Each room has been individually named to match its personality. A running theme throughout is the Victorian decor touches. From classic Victorian walk-in bathrooms to Victorian-style pine floors, you’ll feel as if you’re in another world – the best way to feel when you’re on holiday.
If you’re planning an outing to Kirstenbosch Gardens or the beach, a picnic basket with decadent delights from smoked salmon pâté and nuts to olives and fresh breads is a must. Stroll along the beachfront from Green Point to Bantry Bay. The many small beaches along the way are ideal for a spot of privacy.
HOW MUCH? From R1 450pn for a Standard Double Room with breakfast. For more information, see cheviotplace.co.za
At The Rocks Guest House, Langebaan
Overlooking the historical West Coast seaside village of Langebaan, the At The Rocks Guest House offers outstanding views of the beach and the lagoon. The beautiful rooms are decorated in beachy tones and cater to your every whim. Soak your stress away in the luxurious spa bath with dramatic views over Langebaan Bay. Watch dassies play on the rocks while you tuck into a delicious continental breakfast.
It’s a short drive to Langebaan’s four beaches, each offering something special. Main beach is perfect for a long stroll, but if you’re looking for something more exclusive then head to Sandy Bay, a small rocky cove. The footpath from the guesthouse through the veld will lead you to the lagoon and bustling town centre.
HOW MUCH? From R850ppspn in a double Standard room, including breakfast. For more information, see therocks.co.za
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Wilderness Manor Guest House, Wilderness
Renowned for its beauty and golden beaches that seem to stretch on forever, a holiday in Wilderness along the Garden Route is truly memorable. Knockout lagoon and beach views complement four rooms that pamper with fluffy robes and glossy mags. Relax with a book in the lounge or on the balcony, and delight in the spectacular scenery.
A full traditional English and continental breakfast is served in the breakfast room. Alternatively, depending on the weather, you can enjoy your first meal al fresco on the balcony overlooking the indigenous forest – and be sure to keep an eye out for the Knysna Loerie.
The sparkling blue ocean and silk-soft sand are undoubtedly Wilderness’ crowning glory. If you’re up for something a little bit different, though, why not take a slow bike ride on the little byroads or on the beach at low tide?
HOW MUCH? From R900ppspn for a two-sleeper Garden Room. For more information, see manor.co.za
