Kalk Bay Harbour
Photo Caption: Kalk Bay is a gem about 35 minutes from Cape Town along the False Bay coastline.
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Photo by @gavman18
Along the False Bay coastline, is a trendy fishing village called Kalk Bay. It known for its scenic beauty, cosmopolitan heritage and long fishing history. It lies about 30 kilometres from the Cape Town city centre. A famous destination in Kalk Bay is its lively fishing harbour buzzing with local fishermen, traders, and other people from all walks of life. The Kalk Bay Harbour is one of the last working fishing harbours in the Cape Peninsula.
Part of The Old World
The harbour used to be a whaling port but was transformed into a thriving fishing port. This is where you can buy fresh fish straight off the boat for your fish braai. Look out for the traditional fishing vessels returning with the catch of the day and watch as fishermen haul buckets of fresh fish from their boats. The boats come in usually around midday.
When not buying fish, you can also take a walk along the pier lined with anchored old fishing boats towards the lighthouse at the tip of the bustling pier. The famous red-and-white-striped lighthouse is a perfect spot to take picturesque photos during sunset. The harbour has a holiday atmosphere throughout the year. It’s perfect for a lovely sunny afternoon stroll with your loved ones.
Aside from local fishermen with their fresh fishes in their colorful fishing boats and the famous harbour lighthouse, this quirky fishing harbour also boasts a number of interesting shops, antiques, crafts and a wide selection of superb restaurants.
There are many traders selling a variety of interesting goods in the harbour, and a few expensive and budget restaurants surrounding it. It’s no surprise that Kalk Bay was voted as one of the 12 coolest suburbs in the world.
Kalky’s
Kalky’s is a favourite eatery of the locals. With its relaxed and unpretentious setting, it sits right on the harbour. They are known to serve the best traditional fish and chips, along with other value-for-money meals. It is a perfect place to eat and relax as you watch local fishermen haul in their latest catch. But beware, it’s very popular. At lunch time over the weekend you will most likely be queuing for quite a while. Meals are generously portioned, and can easily be shared by two people.
Harbour House
Harbour House is a fine dining establishment that offers great food and amazing views. This restaurant is famous for their delicious Mediterranean-style meals. It is an ideal place for those who want to eat excellent food while enjoying a scenic view, as it towers over the bustling fishing pier and boasts with spectacular 360-degree views of the mountains, sea and the distinct Hangklip Mountain on the horizon. You can try their sister restaurant in the Waterfront.
The Resident Cape Fur Seals
A common sight in the harbour, is its friendly resident Cape Fur Seals sunning themselves, ready to pose for a photo or two. Not only do they enjoy entertaining guests, but they also enjoy feeding on the fish carcasses from the fishermen. You will surely have a lot of fun watching these playful creatures up close and personal.
Other Things To Do in Kalk Bay
Aside from the harbour, Kalk Bay is also an eclectic mix of cobbled streets, historic buildings, art and antique galleries, vintage bookstores, bohemian shops and other interesting places to visit.
Kalk Bay surely offers a unique experience.
