tietiesbaai and Cape Coumbine nature reserve

Furthest Westerly destination in the Western Cape!

Covering an area of 263ha along the rocky stretch of coastline with numerous inlets and coves Tietiesbaai  was declared a nature reserve in 1973 . The Reserve's  vegetation is typical West Coast veld, ranging from the well-known fynbos to Succulent Karoo. In spring (August to October) the area is covered in a bright tapestry of wild flowers.

This reserve boasts the last manually controlled lighthouse to be built in South Africa. This Cape Columbine lighthouse is usually the first South African lighthouse to be seen by ships coming from Europe. It was built in 1936 on Castle Rock. The light stands at a height of 80m above sea level and casts a beam, which is visible for about 50km.

The significant white boulders, where great hump-shaped rocks crouch around little rocky bays, make this unspoiled gem one of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast. The vast beach, washed by a fresh Atlantic Ocean can satisfy the enthusiastic kayaker in a safe paddling environment.

The campsite at Tietiesbaai offers ablution facilities with cold showers but is always neat and clean. The contact no for the nature reserve is 022 7522718.

Apart from dolphins and whales along the coastline, together with an abundance of mussels, is area is very famous for the West Coast Rock Lobster (Jasus lalandii). The peaceful surroundings that typify this place of “Red Gold” also offer pristine hiking trails and unforgettable sunsets that slowly vanish in brilliant colours.

Up to the end of 2003 this was one of the most unique and basic parks to be found anywhere. One cold shower and one flush toilet in either the men's or ladies ablutions where water is used very sparingly. Primitive, but well maintained by the caravaners themselves. Why?

Because it is a fisherman's paradise which is rather difficult to reach across a rugged gravel road running back South, on the West Coast. Paternoster and Vredenburg are the closest towns of reasonable size for supplies, located on the main routes leading to Springbok and Upington. The road hugs the coast and passes many quaint old fishermen's cottages before arriving at this tiny bay where time has stood still. You will probably catch your evening meal from the sea, fairly easily, then watch the glorious sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

The park now has two ablution blocks serving the sites around the main beach and solar heating has been installed to heat the water. There are a number of fresh water taps among the camp sites but there are still no power points.