Categories: Coffee BayEastern CapeEastern Cape _ Northern CapeThe Wild Coast

What to do in Coffee Bay

Plenty of adventure activities in Coffee Bay. Photo: Slatin5757 / pixabay

Coffee Bay is indeed an adventure seekers’ paradise. Quad biking, fishing, cliff jumping, abseiling, diving, surfing, kayaking and more await.

Hole in the wall

Why you should visit: There are a few ways you can experience Hole in the Wall from Coffee Bay – hiking, driving or quad biking.

If you’re hiking, hiring a guide is recommended and easily secured at any of the accommodation options. The 9km coastal hike winds through traditional villages and over the grassy green hills until reaching the Mpako River which passes through Hole in the Wall.

Depending on the tides, brave the cliff jump (please follow the advice of the guide and don’t attempt this without checking with a local). The hike is non-technical and suitable for all ages and fitness levels

How to get there: An SUV or 4X4 is recommended to make the 10km drive from Coffee Bay to Hole in the Wall. The drive will take about 40 minutes. If you don’t have the right vehicle, you can book a tour with most properties.

How much does it cost: Coffee Shack offers a Hole in the Wall hike, including lunch, from R100.

Surfing

Why you should visit: Coffee Bay enjoys consistent waves and, with an average water temperature of 20.5ºC, surfing is a popular pastime.

Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced surfer looking to brush up on your surfing technique, Coffee Shack hits the spot. Owner Dave was a Pro-Am World title holder and continues to surf competitively. Join a two-hour lesson every morning and afternoon, led by skilled and incredibly patient instructors. Beginners can choose the five-day “learn to surf” package. You can also just hire wetsuits and surfboards.

How much does it cost: Two-hour surf lessons go for R70. A five-day “learn to surf” package is priced at R3 300, including accommodation.

Cliffs and Caves

Why you should visit: Boost your adrenaline during a Mpuzi Cliff and Caves adventure. Join a guided day-trip, checking out Bat Cave and the other caverns along the Mpuzi cliff face, discover secret swimming holes and, when the tide is right, brave the legendary cliff jump from 14 metres down to the swirling ocean below.

How much does it cost: R100 per person.

Visit an isiXhosa village

Why you should visit: A village experience, led by a local guide, is the best way to immerse yourself in isiXhosa culture.

Coffee Shack’s Village Walk includes a visit to the sangoma (traditional healer), a traditional lunch, lovingly prepared by a local mama and a chance to sample umqombothi (maize beer) at the shebeen. Be warned, it’s potent stuff. Coffee Shack also offers a village overnight experience, staying with local Elvin and his family. Guests get to live out the realities of daily life here, collecting water, firewood and looking after the livestock.How much does it cost: Village Walk: R120 per person. Village overnight: R220 per person.

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