Elands bay is a surf spot situated on the Atlantic west coast of South Africa roughly 230 kilometres north of Cape Town. For surfers who have ever surfed Jeffrey’s bay, it’s often referred to as J Bay in reverse as it is a long peeling left hand point/reef break. This is the break that was surfed in the classic “Endless Summer 2” surfing movie.
Elands Bay itself is a quaint fishing village with friendly people and an extremely relaxed vibe. There are basic supplies available at the few small local shops and places to stay here include the hotel or campsite for the more adventurous or those on a tight budget. Both the hotel and the camp site are practically on the beach and for those coming to the area to surf, the waves are within a few minutes walking distance. About 10 kilometres up the road is Lamberts Bay, another popular surfing/fishing spot on the west coast of the Cape and having more shops, restaurants and accommodation available.
Seafood is in abundance within this region and it is well known as a great place to eat crayfish (lobster) and other delicious seafood dishes. Amongst other items of interest in Elands bay is the rock art site found in the formations of Baboon Point. The rock art includes remains of a large painting of an eland and the surface of the rock is painted with many hand prints, this site is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in South Africa.
As it is situated on the Atlantic ocean side of Southern Africa, the sea is relatively cold and wetsuits are needed for most of the year round. Unless you are one of those ‘die hard surf gurus’ that would surf in baggies at spots in the Antarctica! This left hand break is not a place for beginners because of the power of the waves and the fact that it breaks over a reef. Intermediate to advanced surfers will find the waves to their liking and will experience freight train rides down the line at the excellent Elands bay surf spot off the west coast of Southern Africa.