July Holiday Activities Fish Hoek Cape Town

The Deep South is the place to be this July if you love being surrounded by rugged mountains and dramatic coastlines. The Fish Hoek Valley is rich in history and incredible wildlife. It's an ocean holiday destination. Come to fish, watch whales from the shore, explore ancient caves, hike mountain trails, learn to surf, or simply enjoy a seaside coffee. False Bay near Cape Town is a fabulous winter holiday spot. Swap crowded tourist hotspots for something charming and authentic. Book your Seaside Cottage today!

Fish for Snoek

Fishing for snoek has been part of the False Bay lifestyle for generations. From Fish Hoek to Cape Point, anglers are spoiled for choice. Winter fishing could mean hooking Cape Snoek, Yellowtail, Galjoen and White Steenbras. Visiting fishermen love to catch snoek, a local fish famous for its fighting spirit and delicious flavour. Many local restaurants serve freshly prepared seafood, allowing visitors to enjoy the authentic flavours of the coast.

Explore the Valley

Fish Hoek's fascinating history matches its natural beauty. Not only is the valley home to one of South Africa's most important archaeological discoveries, but it is also home to some of the most glorious protea forests in Cape Town. It is fascinating to think that in 1927, amateur archaeologist Victor Peers excavated what is now known as Peers Cave and uncovered the remains of "Fish Hoek Man", estimated to be around 12,000 years old!

Today, the quaint Fish Hoek Valley Museum brings the area's remarkable story to life through photographs, archaeological artefacts, ancient stone tools, and displays documenting local history. The museum's exhibits cover everything from prehistoric life and Khoisan heritage to the development of Fish Hoek village and the history of whaling in False Bay. Guided walks to Peers Cave can also be arranged, promising breathtaking panoramic views across the valley and peninsula.

Play a Round of Golf

Golf enthusiasts can play a round of golf at two delightful clubs and courses on the Southern Peninsula. A lush green lung sprawling between mountains and the sea, Clovelly Country Club is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque golf courses in the Cape. Rolling fairways, natural dunes, indigenous vegetation, and stunning mountain views make every round unforgettable. For a more relaxed golfing experience, Simon's Town Country Club offers a unique nine-hole course situated between the mountains and Boulder’s Beach. Resembling a traditional Scottish links course, it provides golfers of all abilities with a memorable game in a spectacular coastal setting. The club also features squash, bowls, a welcoming restaurant and bar, and a lively social calendar.

Hike Silvermine Wetlands and Elsie's Peak

Hike in nature around a wetland or up a mountain. The Lower Silvermine Wetlands are a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a chance to spot a wide variety of indigenous bird species. The area is also home to the endangered Western Leopard Toad, a remarkable species found only in certain parts of the Cape Peninsula. Every August, these rare amphibians emerge to breed in a cacophony of croaks and hops. Take a stroll along the promenade beside the wetland and read the delightful mosaics and boards for insights into birds, flowers, and other species.

For hikers, Elsie's Peak delivers one of the most rewarding walks in the region. The trail climbs above Fish Hoek and Glencairn, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views across False Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the sparkling coastline below. Take a flask of coffee and explore the different paths and caves at the top.

Wander Fish Hoek Beach

Fish Hoek Beach is famous for its beautiful crescent-shaped bay and long stretch of soft white sand. Known as one of Cape Town's safest swimming beaches, it remains popular year-round. Winter visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the shoreline, watch locals walking their dogs, or take a stroll along the scenic catwalk that hugs the coastline towards Sunny Cove.

The beachfront Fish Hoek Galley is the perfect spot to warm up with a coffee, enjoy a hearty meal, or simply watch the waves roll in. Between July and November, it also becomes one of the finest whale-watching locations on the False Bay coastline, offering front-row seats to the annual arrival of Southern Right Whales and their calves.

False Bay is noticeably warmer than other waves found along Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard, attracting swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Spot windsurfers, surfski mavericks, and dedicated open-water swimmers making the most of the bay's conditions. Even during winter, many locals take a daily dip in the ocean.

Catch a Boat in Simonstown

A short drive to Simon's Town opens the door to unforgettable boat-based adventures. Join a whale-watching cruise, search for great white sharks near Seal Island, or, for thrill-seekers, experience the excitement of shark cage diving. Boat tours also provide spectacular views of Cape Point's towering cliffs, the famous African Penguin colony at Boulders Beach, and Simon's Town's rich naval heritage. Visitors can often view South African Navy vessels and gain a fascinating perspective of this historic harbour town from the sea. Many keen yachtsmen launch their sailing vessels from the Simonstown yacht club during windy weekends.

Winter Holidays are Hot!

It’s your choice – book an elegant self-catering cottage at Seaside Cottages and make the most of the June/July school holidays. Children revel in the great outdoors of Fish Hoek. Contact us today to make sure you don’t miss out.