"Most supportive, genuine staff! Excellent place, if we were staying longer would have explored the spa. Super short walk to see the water. Breakfast was delicious, cooked to order. Great towels and pillows. Bed was very firm, but more than I prefer. The place was pristine, very impressive. Staff got us booked on a whale watching boat ride the night before, allowed us to store luggage before we departed."
"Most supportive, genuine staff! Excellent place, if we were staying longer would have explored the spa. Super short walk to see the water. Breakfast was delicious, cooked to order. Great towels and pillows. Bed was very firm, but more than I prefer. The place was pristine, very impressive. Staff got us booked on a whale watching boat ride the night before, allowed us to store luggage before we departed."
"We had a lovely two-night stay at this guesthouse. The hosts were welcoming, and the place was comfortable and relaxing. We really enjoyed our time there and would happily stay again!"
"We had a lovely two-night stay at this guesthouse. The hosts were welcoming, and the place was comfortable and relaxing. We really enjoyed our time there and would happily stay again!"
"Typical chain hotel with casino. The thermal springs were really good but lack a coffee shop. Restaurants fair but not great. Good Gardens but nowhere to sit. Good value for money."
"Typical chain hotel with casino. The thermal springs were really good but lack a coffee shop. Restaurants fair but not great. Good Gardens but nowhere to sit. Good value for money."
"We stayed 3 nights in the Grootbos and spent an unforgettable time there. Everything was perfect. The staff was so friendly and helpful. The walks and the safari drive with the guide Tiaan were fantastic. Our cottage ( Nr.24 ) was great. The food was delicious. We hope really to come back soon. A big thank to the whole Grootbos Team for the wonderful stay."
"We stayed 3 nights in the Grootbos and spent an unforgettable time there. Everything was perfect. The staff was so friendly and helpful. The walks and the safari drive with the guide Tiaan were fantastic. Our cottage ( Nr.24 ) was great. The food was delicious. We hope really to come back soon. A big thank to the whole Grootbos Team for the wonderful stay."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Explore the great outdoors at Grootbos Nature Reserve, a lovely green space in Gansbaai. Amble around the area's seaside, or seek out its diving spots.
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Duinfonteinberg during your travels in Gansbaai. Discover the area's countryside and mountain views.
Cage dive with great white sharks in the waters of this coastal town known as the 'Great White Capital of the World.' Join whale watching tours from the harbor or visit nearby Hermanus for even more marine wildlife encounters.
Absolutely stunning views. Staff was phenomenal and a seemingly endless breakfast. Only regret was not staying longer. If you’re in the area for shark cage diving this is a no-brainer of a place to stay. Definitely will come back.
Absolutely stunning views. Staff was phenomenal and a seemingly endless breakfast. Only regret was not staying longer. If you’re in the area for shark cage diving this is a no-brainer of a place to stay. Definitely will come back.
Steve
Reviewed February 29, 2024Reviewed February 29, 2024
Zebra and Eland wild on the property. This was by far my Favorite hotel on our 2 week stay in South Africa from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. Most beautiful views and the greatest staff! We ate dinner there and it was Amazing! This is a 5 star hotel! I would definitely stay here again!
Zebra and Eland wild on the property. This was by far my Favorite hotel on our 2 week stay in South Africa from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. Most beautiful views and the greatest staff! We ate dinner there and it was Amazing! This is a 5 star hotel! I would definitely stay here again!
The gentleman who greeted us was very helpful in explaining the check in and check out process. This is a very basic stay as a sleep over for your next journey. It was cold, as we stayed in June. However, the electric blanket made it all better.
The gentleman who greeted us was very helpful in explaining the check in and check out process. This is a very basic stay as a sleep over for your next journey. It was cold, as we stayed in June. However, the electric blanket made it all better.
Great place to stay, and such a wonderful surprise! The apartment (#6) was upstairs, had a large covered patio and great views of the bay. Shower pressure and water temperature were spot on! The owners were very accommodating to our late arrival time. Would definitely recommend this place.
Great place to stay, and such a wonderful surprise! The apartment (#6) was upstairs, had a large covered patio and great views of the bay. Shower pressure and water temperature were spot on! The owners were very accommodating to our late arrival time. Would definitely recommend this place.
Katie
Reviewed October 18, 2017Reviewed October 18, 2017
The ocean view was fabulous. Watched a humpback whale while we ate breakfast in the morning.
The room was very comfortable and with the outdoor seating off our room I could have stayed at the room all day watching the ocean.
The staff were very accommodating and friendly.
The ocean view was fabulous. Watched a humpback whale while we ate breakfast in the morning.
The room was very comfortable and with the outdoor seating off our room I could have stayed at the room all day watching the ocean.
The staff were very accommodating and friendly.
My wife and I stayed here for one day in September 2016. We highly recommend staying here. The owners are so helpful and wonderful. They went above and beyond to give us a great experience.
My wife and I stayed here for one day in September 2016. We highly recommend staying here. The owners are so helpful and wonderful. They went above and beyond to give us a great experience.
Anonymous traveler
Reviewed September 24, 2016Reviewed September 24, 2016
A wonderful modern hotel with great ocean views. You can see whales from your room if it's the right time of year. The staff was so welcoming, friendly, and accommodating. VERY good value for the money. One of our favorite rooms in our 4 week stay while trying to stay in all 3 star - more budget type acommodations. This far exceeded our others. Very close to drive to Hermanus, or just whale watch and walk the beach right from here.
A wonderful modern hotel with great ocean views. You can see whales from your room if it's the right time of year. The staff was so welcoming, friendly, and accommodating. VERY good value for the money. One of our favorite rooms in our 4 week stay while trying to stay in all 3 star - more budget type acommodations. This far exceeded our others. Very close to drive to Hermanus, or just whale watch and walk the beach right from here.
Debbie
Reviewed November 1, 2015Reviewed November 1, 2015
We enjoyed our stay very much. A beautiful and well kept property. Secured parking inside the gate. We had an upstairs room (no elevator) and had help getting our luggage up. Bed was comfortable and the bathroom was large. The balcony with the ocean view is worth the extra cost! Walking distance to town with all kinds of stores. We ate at Cafe 1904 and the oxtail (a common dish here) was outstanding, better than at Cape Town. When present, the staff was very friendly and helpful…took a star...
We enjoyed our stay very much. A beautiful and well kept property. Secured parking inside the gate. We had an upstairs room (no elevator) and had help getting our luggage up. Bed was comfortable and the bathroom was large. The balcony with the ocean view is worth the extra cost! Walking distance to town with all kinds of stores. We ate at Cafe 1904 and the oxtail (a common dish here) was outstanding, better than at Cape Town. When present, the staff was very friendly and helpful…took a star...
Our stay at Whale Coast Ocean Villa was fabulous! This is the perfect place for exploring the Hermanus Cliff Walk and Grotto Beach. It is beautifully decorated, the breakfast was amazing, the staff warm and welcoming. Our stay was too short. Hope to visit again soon.
Our stay at Whale Coast Ocean Villa was fabulous! This is the perfect place for exploring the Hermanus Cliff Walk and Grotto Beach. It is beautifully decorated, the breakfast was amazing, the staff warm and welcoming. Our stay was too short. Hope to visit again soon.
Patricia
Reviewed January 17, 2025Reviewed January 17, 2025
Amazing service, views, access to the cliffs and town.
The rooms were comfortable and quiet!
We would highly recommend and would not consider staying anywhere else. So accommodating and friendly, service with a smile.
Spa was great and very reasonable!
Definitely do at least one dinner with their chef who customized meals to freshest available!
Only wish we could have stayed longer!
Amazing service, views, access to the cliffs and town.
The rooms were comfortable and quiet!
We would highly recommend and would not consider staying anywhere else. So accommodating and friendly, service with a smile.
Spa was great and very reasonable!
Definitely do at least one dinner with their chef who customized meals to freshest available!
Only wish we could have stayed longer!
Mitch
Reviewed October 16, 2025Reviewed October 16, 2025
Thrilling Shark Cage Diving: Experience the excitement of getting up close with great white sharks in their natural habitat.
Stunning Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches like Romansbaai, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely walks.
Charming Gansbaai Harbour: Explore the picturesque harbor filled with local charm and vibrant marine life.
Scenic Golf Course: Enjoy a round of golf with breathtaking ocean views at the local country club.
Welcoming Community: Immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere and local culture of this coastal gem.
Find great hotels near Gansbaai
Gansbaai offers a charming selection of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to inviting bed & breakfasts, perfect for any traveler. Whether you're seeking a beach getaway, an adventure-filled vacation, or a comfortable base for business travel, you'll find the ideal spot here. Explore the best hotels in Gansbaai and enjoy a memorable stay while experiencing the beauty and excitement this coastal gem has to offer.
Whale Rock Luxury Lodge: Nestled 21km from Gansbaai, Whale Rock Luxury Lodge offers a luxurious escape with a rating of 9.4 out of 10. This 4-star guesthouse is ideal for travelers seeking adventure and business amenities. Guests can engage in a range of adventure sports, including boat tours, kayaking, windsurfing, and fishing, all easily accessible nearby. The lodge provides a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day filled with exciting activities.
White Shark Guest House: Located just 3km from Gansbaai, White Shark Guest House boasts a perfect guest rating of 10.0 out of 10. This 4-star bed and breakfast is particularly appealing for beach lovers and adventure seekers, with direct access to the stunning shoreline. Guests can partake in a variety of activities such as snorkeling, horse riding, fishing, and hiking or biking nearby. The inviting atmosphere and personalized service create an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Whale Coast Ocean Villa: Situated 19km from Gansbaai, Whale Coast Ocean Villa is a charming 3.5-star bed and breakfast with a guest rating of 9.8 out of 10. This property emphasizes a nature-themed experience with wellness in mind. Guests can enjoy outdoor amenities such as a rooftop terrace, allowing for relaxation while surrounded by the beauty of the landscape. It is an appealing choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
Where to stay near Gansbaai
Gansbaai, nestled in the Western Cape of South Africa, offers an unforgettable vacation experience filled with outdoor adventures and eco-friendly activities. Explore the charming Gansbaai harbor, relax on its stunning beaches, and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of the local community. Nearby attractions provide opportunities for excursions and breathtaking scenery, making Gansbaai a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Discover the beauty of this coastal gem and indulge in the ultimate holiday experience.
De Kelders: Located a mere 3km from Gansbaai, De Kelders is a charming coastal city known for its stunning outdoor experiences. The area attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in September and December to January. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities ranging from golfing at the local golf course to relaxing at the family beach. The breathtaking mountain views and beautiful beaches make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Kleinbaai: Also situated 3km from Gansbaai, Kleinbaai is a vibrant city that offers a delightful eco-friendly and family-oriented atmosphere. The travel experience here is moderately seasonal, with peak visitor numbers occurring in January to February and November. Guests can explore the local public market and engage in thrilling shark cage diving experiences. With beautiful beaches, parks, and a nearby nature reserve, Kleinbaai is perfect for families looking to connect with nature.
Van Dyks Bay: This picturesque village, located just 3km from Gansbaai, is a hidden gem renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitor numbers peak in January to February and November, offering a vibrant atmosphere during these months. The local marina and harbor provide excellent opportunities for boating and fishing, while the beautiful beaches invite relaxation and exploration. Van Dyks Bay is ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil beach experience amidst scenic surroundings.
Things to do in Gansbaai
Shopping
In Gansbaai, visit local shops for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Gansbaai Shopping Centre offers more extensive options, while the Hermanus Old Harbour Market features fresh produce and artisanal goods, perfect for picking up local treats.
Recreation
In Gansbaai, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the stunning Marine Dynamics Shark Tours Wellness Retreat, where you can relax with ocean-inspired therapies. Enjoy yoga sessions surrounded by nature, or partake in guided meditation to enhance your well-being while soaking in the breathtaking coastal views.
Adventure
Shark cage diving in Gansbaai offers an exhilarating encounter with great white sharks in their natural habitat, providing a thrilling rush for adventure seekers. For those who prefer land, hiking the nearby Klipgat Trail showcases stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife, creating a memorable outdoor experience.
Nightlife
Gansbaai offers a cozy nightlife with local pubs like The Gansbaai Harbour and the popular The Shark Shack, where you can enjoy drinks and live music. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the nearby café bars, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gansbaai
To save money on your trip to Gansbaai, consider visiting between May and July, when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and Saturday is the cheapest day to stay. Utilize Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and look for last-minute deals. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal can also yield savings. Enjoy free activities, like exploring the scenic coastline, while utilizing public transport for affordable travel around the area.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Gansbaai are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Gansbaai about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Gansbaai is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Gansbaai is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will reveal sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodations in Gansbaai with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in and around Gansbaai
Gansbaai, located in the Western Cape of South Africa, is perfect for outdoor, eco-friendly beach vacations. Visitors can explore attractions like the harbor, historic lighthouse, and local lodges. With a focus on beach culture and scenic experiences, Gansbaai offers various activities, including visiting Gansbaai Harbour, enjoying Romansbaai Beach, and embarking on local adventures. This charming coastal town is an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Grootbos Nature Reserve: Nestled within Gansbaai, Grootbos Nature Reserve offers a serene lodge experience surrounded by stunning fynbos vegetation and diverse wildlife. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, whale watching, and gourmet dining, immersing themselves in the beauty of this unique ecosystem.
Gansbaai Harbor: This vibrant harbor is perfect for enjoying scenic views and the coastal atmosphere. Visitors can relax on the beach, take in the picturesque surroundings, and embark on boat tours for marine adventures, including the chance to see sharks and dolphins.
Danger Point Lighthouse: Located 6km from Gansbaai, this historic lighthouse carries cultural significance and offers breathtaking views of the ocean. Learn about its storied past and enjoy the dramatic coastline, making it a great spot for photography and exploration.
Best time to go to Gansbaai
The best time to visit Gansbaai can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Gansbaai falls in February, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Gansbaai falls in July and August. August has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
69.1°F (20.6°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
February
69.3°F (20.7°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
March
67.6°F (19.8°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
April
64.0°F (17.8°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
May
61.0°F (16.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
June
57.7°F (14.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
July
56.3°F (13.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
August
56.3°F (13.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
September
57.9°F (14.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
October
61.0°F (16.1°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
November
63.3°F (17.4°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
December
66.6°F (19.2°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Gansbaai
Getting to Gansbaai is convenient if you fly into Cape Town International Airport (CPT), located 97km away. Popular hotels near the airport include the Taj Cape Town, One&Only Cape Town, and InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town, all rated 5-stars and situated about 18km from the airport. These hotels offer various transportation services to the airport, including accessible airport shuttles and transfers for a fee. Visitors can easily arrange their travel to Gansbaai from these hotels, ensuring a smooth start to their vacation in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best vacation home rentals in Gansbaai?
Gansbaai Seafront Holiday House: Ons C-huis: Visitors give good reviews to this Gansbaai vacation home rental, which is located by the ocean and has a fireplace, a private balcony, and a barbecue grill to put you at ease in your new surroundings. It has 3 bedrooms as well as a kitchen with a full-sized fridge, a dishwasher, and a stovetop, so you can cook with friends or family. It offers a terrace, a garden, and a selection of games so you can immerse yourself in your vacation. See all vacation rentals in Gansbaai.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Gansbaai, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the hotel’s cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it might still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Gansbaai.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Gansbaai?
To access more information about rescheduling or cancelling your trip to Gansbaai, click here.
What's the best hotel for a beach vacation in Gansbaai?
Romans Villa is a top beach guesthouse with free breakfast and free parking, and it's located close to De Kelders Strand. See more stays near the beach in Gansbaai.
What's the best high-end place to stay in Gansbaai?
Grootbos Nature Reserve is a luxury lodge with 2 restaurants and 2 bars, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travelers looking for an elegant place to stay. Find more luxury hotels in Gansbaai.
Grootbos Nature Reserve is a top luxury spa hotel with a hair salon. Enjoy a body treatment, couples treatments, or massage at the onsite spa. In-room massages are also available. See all spa hotels in Gansbaai.
What is the best accommodation for staying close to Cape Town International Airport (CPT)?
Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport is a popular hotel, featuring a roundtrip airport shuttle and free WiFi. It's located a short 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Cape Town Intl. Airport. Other places to stay close to the airport are Hotel Verde and Mbalentle.
What is staying in Gansbaai like?
Visitors can enjoy all that Gansbaai has to offer including its mountain views. This city also attracts tourists with its quaint and rural setting. In Gansbaai, there are 19 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Gansbaai.
The hottest months are usually February and January with an average temp of 68°F, while the coldest months are August and July with an average of 57°F. Average annual precipitation for Gansbaai is 21 inches.