Just outside Gansbaai, very close to the southernmost point of Africa, there is a small coastal village with a big soul.  Kleinbaai is home to South Africa’s shark cage diving industry and abuzz with visitors walking about with life-jackets and even wet suits.  Usually on their way to catch a boat to and see some Great Whites.

 

My top five  Kleinbaai activities include:

1. The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary cares for injured animals in a setting that is educational and entertaining.  The birds and penguins can be observed via one-way glass and their twice daily feedings are open to the public.  They also serve great coffee and cake.
2. Take a walk from the harbour to the Danger Point Lighthouse past the tidal pool.  Decide whether you want to go all the way or just a short stroll.
3. Watching the shark boats go out and later, watching them speed back.  There is a certain amount of excitement that’s contagious even if you’re not part of the adventure party.
4. Coffee at the Great White Shark House.  I go for the coffee and something to eat but mostly I like the buzz of tourists coming and going.
5. Drive to the Danger Point Lighthouse close by and go for a energetic steep climb and beautiful photo opportunities.  This beacon was erected in 1895 with the memory of the shipwrecked HMT Birkenhead relatively fresh in mind.  The saying “Women and children first” is said to originate from the tragic incident during which the Birkenhead sunk.

Mostly I enjoy Kleinbaai for its peace and quiet and tight sense of community.  It is a small village but there’s a lot of soul.