Oudekraal Beach and Gazebo
Oudekraal Beach is a small haven tucked away and surrounded by large boulders which shelter it nicely. Swimming here is safe. However, there is a bit of a walk to do to get there.
The beach is popular with scuba divers. Justin’s Caves are the attraction. These are some large boulders where fascinating sea life is abundant. Snorkelling and freediving are permitted, but you’ll require a permit for diving.
The kelp forests and colourful scenery in the underwater caves are a great snorkelling opportunity. The wreck of the Het Huis te Kraaiestein (1670), is the oldest in the country.
Divers can venture out to visit the wreck which ran aground on the rocks at Oudekraal in 1698. More recently a swell causing a surge of extremely large waves dislodged the wreck of the Antipolis, a Greek Tanker built in 1959 which sank in July 1977. It was previously situated in a Marine Protected Area within the Karbonkelberg restricted area. The wreck washed ashore near the 12 Apostles Hotel. The Antipolis is unstable and it is recommended that people refrain from climbing on the wreck and or diving near it.
There’s also a seal colony called Strawberry Rocks along the shore. Above the beach, there are 35 well-maintained braai sites scattered over the area,
Oudekraal is significant to the Muslim community. Early in the 18th century, it was a refuge for slaves who had escaped from the colonial authorities and their masters. Muslim spiritual leaders who had been captured and brought to the Cape were among them. The Oudekraal ravines offered seclusion and safety and allowed them to teach and keep Islam going in the Cape.
Between Bakoven and Llandudno, opposite the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa. The beach is safe for swimming but there is no lifeguard on duty. There are braai facilities available with a fantastic view of the ocean. It gets busy on weekends and public holidays so arrive early to get a good spot. Alcohol is prohibited.
Check the tides here
The Gazebo at Oudekraal Beach is available for functions. The entire venue which accommodates 350 people can be hired. You may hold your wedding ceremony on the beach – but there are additional requirements which you’ll need to enquire about. There’s a gazebo with power points it has a roof with no sides. There are built-in picnic tables that can accommodate up to 100 guests. Alcohol is permitted and you’re allowed to play music on a CD player when you hire the area. If you’re on a smaller budget, the gazebo can be booked for your event between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. When the gazebo is booked, the rest of Oudekraal remains open to the public.
It is closed during the week from 1 June to 30 September but is open every weekend and on public holidays irrespective of the season.
Call to make a booking for a function or event and to enquire about pricing
Oudekraal, Victoria Road, between Llandudno and Camps Bay
TableM@sanparks.org
