Coffee Bay & the Wild Coast - Everything you need to know before you go!
Recommended duration of stay:
Coffee Bay has a laid-back, rustic charm and is set in one of South Africa’s least developed, most untouched regions. With gravel roads, rolling hills dotted with traditional rondavels, and wild, empty beaches, it offers a peaceful, authentic escape. It’s more about soaking in the natural beauty and slow pace of life than ticking off activities—perfect for relaxing, unwinding, and connecting with the rhythm of the Wild Coast.
- A stay of at least 3 nights is recommended
The Coffee Bay experience:
1. Hike to Hole in the Wall
This iconic rock formation, punched through by ocean erosion, is the crown jewel of the Wild Coast. A scenic hike (or drive) from Coffee Bay brings you here, passing rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and traditional huts. Swimming is possible, but the currents can be strong.
2. Hiking and Coastal Walks
The Wild Coast is a hiker’s dream. Trails lead you through remote villages, lush valleys, and cliff-top paths. Popular routes include hikes to Mapuzi Caves and Cliffs, White Clay, and Mdumbi Beach, all offering jaw-dropping views.
3. Relax at Coffee Bay Beach
A peaceful stretch of beach right by the village, ideal for sunbathing, picnics, or playing in the gentle waves. It’s a laid-back spot popular with backpackers and surfers alike.
4. Surfing
Coffee Bay is a great surf spot, especially for beginners. There are small local surf schools and board rentals available. Mdumbi Beach, a short drive away, also has excellent waves in a more untouched setting.
5. Cultural Experiences with the Xhosa People
Take part in a guided village tour or homestay to learn about Xhosa traditions, music, food, and daily life. These experiences often include storytelling, dancing, and sharing a traditional meal.
6. Explore Mapuzi Caves and Cliffs
A short hike north of Coffee Bay brings you to dramatic cliffs and sea caves at Mapuzi. Brave visitors can cliff-jump into the ocean (best done with a local guide). The scenery here is wild and stunning.
7. Yoga and Wellness Retreats
Several lodges, like the popular Ocean View Hotel or Coffee Shack, offer wellness activities including yoga, meditation, and massages with ocean views and chilled vibes.
Your stay in the Wild Coast:
A favourite among backpackers, the Wild Coast is one of South Africa’s most untouched and least developed regions. Accommodation tends to be simple yet comfortable, with few luxury options. Its remote location makes it an affordable choice, offering a genuine chance to experience the laid-back, natural beauty of the Wild Coast.
For more details about the accommodation options, please refer to the accommodation tab.
Transportation and getting around:
You’ll have a private guide and vehicle at your disposal throughout your entire tour to the Wild Coast. Your guide, equipped with in-depth local knowledge, will handle all your transportation needs and be available for day trips, excursions, and personalised travel assistance along the way.
Best time of year to visit:
Coffee Bay is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. While some months are wetter or cooler than others, the region’s natural beauty, hiking trails, and cultural experiences make it worth visiting in any season.
- Summer (December to February) is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25–30°C. Ideal for beach days and surfing, with lush green landscapes. Expect occasional rainfall as it's the rainy season.
- Winter (June to August) brings cooler weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 20–23°C. Expect dry, sunny days and clear skies—ideal for hiking and tranquil escapes. However, the ocean is often too cold for comfortable swimming.
- Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) offer mild, pleasant weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 22–26°C. Expect clear coastal views, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to summer. These seasons provide the ideal balance of good weather, outdoor activities, and peaceful surroundings.
General Advice:
- Bank cards are generally accepted but not always available, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash to cover basic expenses such as meals, activities, and tips.
- Tipping is customary and highly appreciated in the service industry. At restaurants, it is standard to tip between 10% and 20% of the bill. Cultural and walking guides generally receive between R100 and R200 per activity, while accommodation cleaning staff typically appreciate around R20 per day.
- Be sure to bring insect and mosquito repellent. Peaceful Sleep and Tabard are effective brands commonly available in South African grocery stores.
- Be sure to bring a raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Always carry your swimsuit when hiking—you never know when you might come across a peaceful swimming spot or a cliff jumping opportunity just around the corner.
- Be sure to protect your skin—sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days.
- Do your shopping on-route to Coffee Bay, as grocery stores in town are very limited and only stock basic essentials.
Brief History:
Coffee Bay, a quaint coastal village along South Africa’s Wild Coast, derives its name from an early shipwreck whose cargo of coffee beans washed ashore on the town’s beaches. It remained a remote and largely overlooked area until the post-apartheid era, when adventurous travelers began discovering its stunning natural beauty and rich Xhosa culture. Tourism in Coffee Bay has since grown slowly, focusing on eco-tourism and cultural experiences centered around landmarks like the iconic Hole in the Wall rock formation. Community-run lodges and small guesthouses have emerged, promoting sustainable tourism that supports local livelihoods while preserving the area’s rugged charm and traditional heritage.
Coffee Bay & the Wild Coast - Everything you need to know before you go!
Recommended duration of stay:
Coffee Bay has a laid-back, rustic charm and is set in one of South Africa’s least developed, most untouched regions. With gravel roads, rolling hills dotted with traditional rondavels, and wild, empty beaches, it offers a peaceful, authentic escape. It’s more about soaking in the natural beauty and slow pace of life than ticking off activities—perfect for relaxing, unwinding, and connecting with the rhythm of the Wild Coast.
- A stay of at least 3 nights is recommended
The Coffee Bay experience:
1. Hike to Hole in the Wall
This iconic rock formation, punched through by ocean erosion, is the crown jewel of the Wild Coast. A scenic hike (or drive) from Coffee Bay brings you here, passing rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and traditional huts. Swimming is possible, but the currents can be strong.
2. Hiking and Coastal Walks
The Wild Coast is a hiker’s dream. Trails lead you through remote villages, lush valleys, and cliff-top paths. Popular routes include hikes to Mapuzi Caves and Cliffs, White Clay, and Mdumbi Beach, all offering jaw-dropping views.
3. Relax at Coffee Bay Beach
A peaceful stretch of beach right by the village, ideal for sunbathing, picnics, or playing in the gentle waves. It’s a laid-back spot popular with backpackers and surfers alike.
4. Surfing
Coffee Bay is a great surf spot, especially for beginners. There are small local surf schools and board rentals available. Mdumbi Beach, a short drive away, also has excellent waves in a more untouched setting.
5. Cultural Experiences with the Xhosa People
Take part in a guided village tour or homestay to learn about Xhosa traditions, music, food, and daily life. These experiences often include storytelling, dancing, and sharing a traditional meal.
6. Explore Mapuzi Caves and Cliffs
A short hike north of Coffee Bay brings you to dramatic cliffs and sea caves at Mapuzi. Brave visitors can cliff-jump into the ocean (best done with a local guide). The scenery here is wild and stunning.
7. Yoga and Wellness Retreats
Several lodges, like the popular Ocean View Hotel or Coffee Shack, offer wellness activities including yoga, meditation, and massages with ocean views and chilled vibes.
Your stay in the Wild Coast:
A favourite among backpackers, the Wild Coast is one of South Africa’s most untouched and least developed regions. Accommodation tends to be simple yet comfortable, with few luxury options. Its remote location makes it an affordable choice, offering a genuine chance to experience the laid-back, natural beauty of the Wild Coast.
For more details about the accommodation options, please refer to the accommodation tab.
Transportation and getting around:
You’ll have a private guide and vehicle at your disposal throughout your entire tour to the Wild Coast. Your guide, equipped with in-depth local knowledge, will handle all your transportation needs and be available for day trips, excursions, and personalised travel assistance along the way.
Best time of year to visit:
Coffee Bay is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. While some months are wetter or cooler than others, the region’s natural beauty, hiking trails, and cultural experiences make it worth visiting in any season.
- Summer (December to February) is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25–30°C. Ideal for beach days and surfing, with lush green landscapes. Expect occasional rainfall as it's the rainy season.
- Winter (June to August) brings cooler weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 20–23°C. Expect dry, sunny days and clear skies—ideal for hiking and tranquil escapes. However, the ocean is often too cold for comfortable swimming.
- Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) offer mild, pleasant weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 22–26°C. Expect clear coastal views, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to summer. These seasons provide the ideal balance of good weather, outdoor activities, and peaceful surroundings.
General Advice:
- Bank cards are generally accepted but not always available, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash to cover basic expenses such as meals, activities, and tips.
- Tipping is customary and highly appreciated in the service industry. At restaurants, it is standard to tip between 10% and 20% of the bill. Cultural and walking guides generally receive between R100 and R200 per activity, while accommodation cleaning staff typically appreciate around R20 per day.
- Be sure to bring insect and mosquito repellent. Peaceful Sleep and Tabard are effective brands commonly available in South African grocery stores.
- Be sure to bring a raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
- Always carry your swimsuit when hiking—you never know when you might come across a peaceful swimming spot or a cliff jumping opportunity just around the corner.
- Be sure to protect your skin—sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days.
- Do your shopping on-route to Coffee Bay, as grocery stores in town are very limited and only stock basic essentials.
Brief History:
Coffee Bay, a quaint coastal village along South Africa’s Wild Coast, derives its name from an early shipwreck whose cargo of coffee beans washed ashore on the town’s beaches. It remained a remote and largely overlooked area until the post-apartheid era, when adventurous travelers began discovering its stunning natural beauty and rich Xhosa culture. Tourism in Coffee Bay has since grown slowly, focusing on eco-tourism and cultural experiences centered around landmarks like the iconic Hole in the Wall rock formation. Community-run lodges and small guesthouses have emerged, promoting sustainable tourism that supports local livelihoods while preserving the area’s rugged charm and traditional heritage.