Wondering why you should consider Hout Bay accommodation for your trip? Known locally as Heart Bay, Houters or even the Republic of Hout Bay, this sleepy suburb on the very end of the Atlantic Seaboard has a charm that is 100% unique. Essentially, Hout Bay is a fishing village, with a bustling working harbour that boasts yacht charters, fresh fish and even an outdoor market. Added to this is a beautiful beach, laid-back vibe and some of the best scenery in the city.
Positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and the greenbelts of the Constantia Valley, Hout Bay really does seem like a whole other world. Which of course is why locals like to joke about it being a mini republic – only one that doesn’t require a passport. The area’s history goes back to the days of the Dutch settlers, who set up camp in Table Bay somewhere around 1652. Naturally, they needed a lot of timber to start building houses and other constructions, but with not much near their settlement, they looked a bit further towards a fertile valley that would later be called Constantia Nek. This area comprised two large farms back in those days, which eventually subdivided into smaller settlements before becoming the area that it is today. That same rural atmosphere remains, even if the area is now home to some 42 000 people.
Why Book Hout Bay Accommodation?
Whether you take the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive from Noordhoek, or the equally beautiful winding pass that leads from Constantia, one thing is for sure: your entry into Hout Bay seldom disappoints. Even seasoned locals such as yours truly can’t help but by delighted when arriving in Houters. Perhaps it’s that sense of feeling away from the crowds, or maybe it’s the blend of forests and sea. The next time you overhear a local joking about Heart Bay, you can smile and nod in agreement. And, if you have made your voyage to this part of the peninsula, you will know just what they mean by this reference to Cape Town’s beloved coastal villa. Hout Bay accommodation is varied, and, for the more budget conscious traveller, it offers good value for money. From apartments and guest houses to villas and Hout Bay holiday homes, this area offers something for everyone.
Some of the top reasons to book your Hout Bay accommodation include the following:
- Diverse accommodation. Whether you are looking for compact Hout Bay apartments, luxurious Hout Bay villas, spacious holiday homes, cosy cottages, catered, managed or self catering accommodation, you will have plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation in Hout Bay. This area offers all the appeal of a far always village, combined with a festive atmosphere, laid-back culture and easy access to many attractions in the Atlantic Seaboard and southern suburbs. Browse our featured accommodation to see what we have in store for you in Hout Bay, or get in touch with any requirements you may have.
- Wining and dining. There is something to be said for restaurants that are positioned pretty much on the beach. In the case of Dunes, this location is idyllic. Take off your shoes, order an ice cold local brew or cold drink, indulge in something to eat, as you make like a local and relish the laid-back vibe. The strip of road that takes you through Hout Bay is filled with interesting shops, art galleries, coffee shops, pizza places, restaurants, banks and other things to explore. Work off your lunch with a stroll up (or down) this road to take in some of the sights. At night, this little hub has quite a cool vibe too, with a good choice of bars and pubs. If you feel like heading out, the Camps Bay beachfront and its restaurants and bars are short drive away, while the Waterfront’s many dining options are also under half an hour away.
- Shopping. Hout Bay plays host to a regular weekend market, Bay Harbour Market. This market takes place on Friday evenings, with live music, craft beer, slow food and a variety of interesting stalls to be found. Other markets include Hout Bay Market. Along the Main Road that runs through the area, there are a number of small shops, art galleries and other interesting stores. If you’re looking for malls, the closest ones include the V&A Waterfront and The Promenade in Camps Bay. Both of these malls can be easily accessed by cab or car, offering a scenic drive. In Noordhoek, there is the Sun Valley shopping centre. You can access this mall by taking the beautiful Chapman’s Peak Drive, which runs from Noordhoek to Hout Bay.
- Entertainment. You will not find any major clubs, casinos or large-scale entrainment facilities here. But, that is all part of the charm of the area. Locals and visitors alike spend the evening hours enjoying the relaxed culture of the area, with restaurants and neighbourhood bars offering all the entertainment they need. Should you feel the need for something different however, you can easily enjoy all that the city offers. In Camps Bay, there are clubs and the popular Theatre on the Bay, which shows a variety of performances. In the Waterfront, you will find the Cape Town Comedy Club. In the City Centre lie dinner theatres, bars and clubs. There are cinemas found in Gardens and the Waterfront.
- Romance ready. Needless to say, the area’s remote feel makes it perfect for a romantic escape. You will genuinely feel far removed from everything when staying here. With its lush green surrounds, beautiful beach and cosy restaurants, not to mention our fabulous selection of accommodation in Hout Bay, you can look forward to a peaceful honeymoon or holiday with your beloved, while knowing that you are never too far from all the action. With many of our properties boasting swimming pools, hot tubs and luxurious master suites, you will be able to plan the ultimate getaway with that special someone.
- Family-friendly. For locals within the greater area (even as far as the southern suburbs), the harbour is the place to be if you’re looking for fresh fish to put on the braai (aka barbeque). In recent years, it’s also become a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon browsing the Bay Harbour Market. You can even take a boat trip to Seal Island or to the Waterfront if you’re in the mood. Then there is the beach. Long, expansive, ideal for walking, there is also a restaurant complex at the end of the beach where you can enjoy some fish and chips after a good walk. The views are rather impressive too, even if the water is on the chilly Atlantic side. Other family friendly highlights in Hout Bay include World of Birds, Clay Café and Mariner’s Wharf.
Browse Our Featured Hout Bay Accommodation
Now that you know a little more about what to expect when visiting this area, we’re here to help you find the perfect place to stay. ComeToCapeTown.com offers an excellent selection of holiday apartments, villas, guest houses, and self catering properties in Hout Bay. Whatever your needs may be, you are sure to find what you are looking for. Our Curated Collection showcases the very best of the best, featuring some of our most sought-after accommodation.
To get started, view our featured accommodation in Hout Bay below. From there, you can make an enquiry to check availability, and secure your booking. Got any questions about finding Hout Bay accommodation? Contact the ComeToCapeTown.com team right now for assistance!