Victoria Bay- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Victoria Bay, a small cove nestled on the Garden Route between George and Wilderness in South Africa's Western Cape, is a premier destination for surf enthusiasts and beach-goers alike. This picturesque locale captivates visitors with its right-hand reef-like wave, which gracefully unfurls over small, boulder-like rocks along a 200m stretch, offering surfers an exhilarating ride. The wave's consistent quality has elevated Victoria Bay to the status of a favored venue for both district and national surf competitions, underscoring its significance in the surfing community despite its modest size. The geography of Victoria Bay is as unique as the surfing experience it offers. On its western flank, large boulders mark the landscape, a striking feature believed to have descended from the hilltop, giving the area the name Land's End. This moniker not only refers to the geological formations but also harks back to the original bungalow at the road's terminus, now transformed into a sizable self-catering and Bed & Breakfast establishment, characteristic of the thirteen properties along the road. Contrasting this rugged western side, the bay's eastern expanse is defined by eroded rocks and a concrete barrier erected to stave off slope erosion, culminating in the Kabeljou Bank - a haven for anglers lured by the prospect of catching the sizeable Cob. Beyond its natural beauty and surfing appeal, Victoria Bay has morphed into a cherished holiday spot, drawing crowds particularly during the summer and Easter periods. Its appeal is further enhanced by the array of accommodation options dotting the vicinity – from camp sites that afford stunning overlooks of the bay, to clusters of holiday chalets providing a cozy retreat. The communal grassy area above the beach, equipped with braai facilities, alongside a quaint shop and restaurant perched at the pinnacle of the beach road, offer visitors conveniences that enrich their stay. Victoria Bay's charm is not limited to its terrestrial features. A concrete jetty extends into the bay, flanked by a sandy-bottomed rock pool, serving as a vantage point for both surf spectating and fishing enthusiasts. This jetty, a gift from the original owner of what is now The Waves Bed & Breakfast, stands as a testament to the community's resilience, having been reconstructed in the early 1990s after severe storm damage. Moreover, the bay's allure is augmented by its proximity to a historic railway line that ties George to Knysna, via Wilderness and Sedgefield. This track, once graced by the famous Outeniqua Choo Tjoe offering picturesque tourist rides, mirrors the bay's charm and its intricate bond with South Africa's natural and cultural heritage.