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Arniston

Arniston Overview
Arniston Recommended for:
  • Beach /
  • Walking Trails /
  • Fishing /
  • Swimming /
  • Surfing /
 

Description

This rather schizophrenic town is officially known as Waenhuiskrans but everyone calls it Arniston. The official name, which means “Wagon House Cave”, refers to an enormous sea cave that is big enough to park an ox wagon (and a team of oxen) in. It’s a beautiful cave and it’s a lovely walk to get to it but watch the tides. You absolutely do not want to get caught there at high tide! The more familiar name refers to the wreck of the Arniston, which ran aground in 1815, with the loss of 372 lives – only 6 hardy souls managing to struggle ashore. There is a small monument near the beach.

Although Arniston is a pretty beach destination, with excellent surf, great sun tanning, swimming and fishing, one of the main attractions is the lovely fishing village. Thatched, white-washed cottages dotted amongst the dunes stand out against the clear blue sky and attract photographers and painters from miles around. Here’s a challenge – take a photograph or do a painting of an Arniston cottage that isn’t kitsch. It can be done.
Arniston is also close to Cape Agulhas, which is the most southerly point of Africa and the official meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

Arniston & Surrounds

*Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling distance.

In and Around

Popular Attractions
Nearby Locations
Nearest Airport
Featured Destinations
Gallery and Museums
 

Customer Reviews

Reviews 7 of 7
Dave Segor
South Africa

Arniston is a wonderful place to just unwind and refresh your soul.

10 March 2013
ANNELISE NEL
South Africa

A piece of heaven on earth which stays in your heart forever!

20 August 2012
Carina Bothma
South Africa

A place to relax and enjoy time with your family. A lovely beach on your doorstep. The sunrise is to die for. The people in Kassiesdorp are friendly. Waenhuiskrans - a must see!

11 April 2012
Bradley Flett
---Not Specified---

Would move there tomorrow if I could. A gem of a village without any frills. Great place to just relax and spend family time. Were extremely fortunate to have near perfect weather for 5 days. Will be back.

06 April 2012
Mariette Maddison
South Africa

A grocery store would make it much more convenient.

02 April 2012
Carmen Anderson
South Africa

Arniston offers an amazing beach holiday, with kilometers of stunning beaches and interesting rock formations. It is a great destination for complete relaxation as there is not much to do besides soak up the sun on the beach, or perhaps take a walk to the Waenhuiskrans cave. Dinner at the Arniston Hotel is a must, and lunch at Willeen's. Also a great location for photography with the stunning blue sea and white fishing cottages of Kassiesbaai. Although it can be busy during peak season, Arniston is still a relaxed and laid-back town, perfect for a coastal break from the city.

19 December 2011
Katie Cowan
South Africa

Arniston is the ideal escape for a weekend holiday. Arniston offers lovely beaches, friendly people, lovely little cottages and clean fresh air.

22 August 2011

Travel Guide
Latest Reviews

A peaceful haven…”  Read more

Dave Segor - 10 March 2013

Where earth and heaven meets…”  Read more

ANNELISE NEL - 20 August 2012

Safe place…”  Read more

Carina Bothma - 11 April 2012

Arniston…”  Read more

Bradley Flett - 06 April 2012

Very enjoyable…”  Read more

Mariette Maddison - 02 April 2012

Perfect beach holiday…”  Read more

Carmen Anderson - 19 December 2011

A lovely city escape…”  Read more

Katie Cowan - 22 August 2011
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