The West Coast of South Africa in the vicinity of Langebaan, is an extraordinary landscape around a large turquoise lagoon connected to the Atlantic Ocean - a lagoon that spreads for kilometers.
It has a characteristic relaxed atmosphere, and consist mostly of small hotels and quest house establishments for the locals and many international kitesurfers and watersport fanatics.
It's nice to spend time here, disappearing from the bustle of the city, strolling along the beach, or visiting small cafes and restaurants.
But there is an even more unusual piece of paradise here in the West Coast National Park. When you explore the protected area and lagoon waters, you will find the real hidden gem, the African Maldives, which is just a few minutes away by car from Langebaan.
It has a wide sandy beach (several kilometers wide at low tide!), with warm shallow waters and a gentle breeze - almost any day of the year.
This is the perfect place to retreat and enjoy the soft waters in various shades of emerald colours.
There is a famous rock formation here called in Afrikaans "Preekstoel" , translates into English as "Pulpit", which rises from the lagoon's shallow waters.
Preekstoel Picnic Spot is one of the most beautiful spots with great facilities. The ablutions are always clean and you will never find litter on the beach or anywhere else in the park. We suggest you get here early to secure a braai spot or even a spot on the beach. The good news is that this park does not have any baboons to steal your food.
Together with this spectacular array of beauty you will also find various bucks, antelopes, ostriches and other animals in the park where you can stop your vehicle and explore from close up.
We stopped at the Seeberg Viewpoint which is close to the Reserve Gate with beautiful views overlooking the Langebaan Lagoon and Shark Bay towards Kraalbaai. The view of the little historical, white-washed stone cottage perched atop the granite boulders that overlook the Lagoon is breathtaking, a must stop for some pics. On a clear day you can see Table Mountain from this huge dome rock!
To finish your day, Shark Bay Shack Family Restaurant is a great place to stop for refreshments after your visit at the lagoon's white sands. We did this. It has an indoor and outdoor (on top) seating area with stunning views where you can enjoy coffee, ice cream, colddrinks, snacks, etc. A small footpath takes you down to a white beach at the lagoon, ideal for children or just to relax...