Lighthouses are more than just navigation beacons from yesteryear. They still project the drama, intrigue and romance of days gone by, when their bright lights and foghorns guided ships through thick mists and around treacherous coastlines.
Even though the towers along our coast are slowly being usurped by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, many have been given a new lease on life as popular tourist destinations. Realising that people continue to be drawn by these historic buildings and their picturesque locations, the National Ports Authority has established the SA Lighthouse Adventure Tour Operations (SALATO). They offer the SA Lighthouse Experience which caters for both day visitors and holidaymakers away from home.
SALATO offers everything from lighthouse tours, curios, coffee shops and museums to self-catering accommodation and camping facilities. The eight lighthouses on offer are spread along South Africa’s coastline from Cape Columbine, near Saldanha Bay, to North Sand Bluff in Kwazulu-Natal. Cape Columbine (Paternoster)
Named after the ship, wrecked 1829, the Cape Columbine is five kilometres Paternoster, a sleepy fishing village, and approximately 200 kilometres from Cape Town. It's a pretty chilled space for bird-watching, also pay a visit to the Columbine Nature Reserve, with coastal flora in abundance. There is accommodation next to the lighthouse, with two self-catering cottages sleeping up to eight each, and also back-packers. Also in Cape Columbine reserve is the Beach Camp which offers comfortable accommodation in tents and A-frame chalets. Mouille Point (Cape Town)
First operational in 1824, it is the oldest functioning lighthouse in SA, 2 kilometres FROM V&A Waterfront. It still has the authentic woodwork in place.
Slangkoppunt (Kommetjie, Cape Town)
The tallest cast-iron tower in SA, it is situated on western coast of Cape Peninsula, boasting stunning coastline views. It’s a 45-minute drive from Cape Town. Self catering accommodation will soon be available, but there many guest houses in the area. Danger Point (Gansbaai)
10 km form Gnansbaai, a pretty fishing village, the lighthouse has been in operation since 1895.It hosts a six sleeper, fully equipped self-catering unit. Plenty to do around the harbour, including shark-cage diving around Dyer Island; visit the penguin and seal breeding grounds; or whale watching in Hermanus, about 50km away. Cape St. Blaze (Mossel Bay)
Situated in the well-know harbour town, Mossel Bay, midway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. A historical journey of SA’s maritime history includes the Bartholomeus Diaz Museum in the town centre. A popular stop is the Post Office tree, a Milk-wood that became a 'post office' for ships passing through the harbour since 1500s.There is a fully equipped self=catering cottage sleeping eight. Great Fish Point (Port Alfred)
Standing just 9 metres high, the miniscule lighthouse is one of the shortest in South Africa. Built on land 76m above sea level it has strong vantage point. Port Alfred boasts beautiful beaches and a golf course. Deep-sea angling is also popular as well as big game fishing. With many wrecks in the area, there is quite a number of interesting dive sites. The lighthouse has two fully serviced self=catering 8 sleeper cottages, with camp sites in development. North Sand Bluff (Port Edward)
Situated in Port Edward, this is the youngest operational lighthouse on South Africa's coastline. There a numerous fishing spots, and for whale watching, try the Aloe Trail. For leisurely walks or swims in ocean, you'll be spoilt for choice. Fishing spots are abundant, while the Aloe Trail (a 1km walk from Slash Rock to the Gully in front of the lighthouse) is ideal for whale watching. There are two fully serviced self-catering 6 sleeper cottages. North Sand Bluff (Port Edward)
Situated in Port Edward, this is the youngest operational lighthouse on South Africa's coastline. There a numerous fishing spots, and for whale watching, try the Aloe Trail. For leisurely walks or swims in ocean, you'll be spoilt for choice. Fishing spots are abundant, while the Aloe Trail (a 1km walk from Slash Rock to the Gully in front of the lighthouse) is ideal for whale watching. There are two fully serviced self-catering 6 sleeper cottages. Port Shepstone
Named after the KwaZulu-Natal coastal town, it stands on the Umzimkulu River mouth. There are guided tours, and in June there's the annual sardine run! Go for a dip in the warm Indian ocean, and browse the craft markets. Stormy weather!!
For more detailed information on each of South Africa's lighthouses, visit The Lighthouse Company, who offer organised tours, merchandise and can assist with arranging accommodation. We can also UHPgrade your accommodation, a making the best of your stay here.
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