Langebaan

Langebaan is a smallish town on the edge of the immense Langebaan Lagoon, about an hour’s drive north of Cape Town on the West Coast. The Lagoon is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise with wonderful kayaking, fun snorkelling and some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing  in the world.

In summer, migratory water birds arrive in their thousands from as far away as Russia. Schaapen Island, in the middle of the lagoon, is bird sanctuary so it’s strictly off limits, but you can paddle really close to it and watch the gannets, gulls and cormorants squabbling amongst themselves.

The West Coast National Park borders on the town and sweeps down to the southern end of the lagoon. It’s a good place for spotting small game but the major attraction is the colourful spring flowers.

The small settlement of Churchhaven, and the pretty Kraalbaai are both easily reached by paddling or sailing across the lagoon, or by road through the national park. Kraalbaai is noted for its many houseboats, some of which are for rent. There are bicycles and canoes for rent in the town, and the national park is a great place to cycle.

There is a large casino resort close by, golf courses and numerous guest houses, some excellent restaurants and a fun beachfront pub.