Login

Mossel Bay

Today
18°C

Photo of Mossel Bay

About Mossel Bay

Dating back to the 15th-century, Dutch seafarers frequented this sleepy bay in search of the fruits from which it takes its name: mussels. Formerly, a popular harbour town, it has enjoyed a small renaissance, since it slid into decline in the 1980s. As a result, Mossel Bay now boasts that untouched, nostalgic seaside charm that so many travellers are looking for: turn-of-the-century architecture, ice-cream kiosks, and minigolf galore. Our recommendations will show you the best places to stay in Mossel Bay from self-catering stays to luxury lodges.

Less popular than some of its neighbours, Mossel Bay is one of the Garden Route's best-kept secrets, meaning guests here can look forward to some competitive prices. From coastal hikes to jumping out of a plane, there is something to suit every interest. With excellent surfing, pristine beaches, and a long list of outdoor pursuits, Mossel Bay is an ideal destination for active types.

What not to miss:

  • Walk or surf on Santos Beach, the widest and most popular in the area, or traverse the craggy trail to the 19th-century Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse.
  • A fascinating visit for those interested in South Africa’s maritime history, Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex should not be missed. It’s also home to The Post Office Tree, which has been used as a mail collection point since the 1500s.
  • Pack your walking boots: trekking and wildlife enthusiasts will love the St Blaize Hiking Trail.
  • Take a tour of the Point of Human Origins. These caves are known as the archaeological site of the earliest artefacts of modern humans.

Brownse our selection of the best places to stay in Mossel Bay and start to plan your visit to this charming harbour town.

The Best Places to stay in Mossel Bay

For sea views

  • A luxurious and contemporary option, Marine Manor on the Beach could hardly be closer to the ocean if it were right in it.
  • A modern hotel, with private balconies and far-reaching sea views, African Oceans is a great boutique option.

For a self-catering stay

  • A collection of cottages in the Fransmanshoek Conservancy area, Sandpiper Cottages boasts cosy exposed brick interiors and open fireplaces.

For those on a budget

  • Providing fun and contemporary accommodation, The Urban is easy going and easy on the purse strings.
  • Charming, owner-managed B&B, Betty’s Boutique Hotel is known for its quaint interiors, superb breakfast and afternoon teas. It’s great value too.

Travel Information

  • If you want to rent self-drive to explore the scenic Garden Route, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Alternatively, Mossel Bay Airport located just a 15-minute drive from town, with daily flights from Cape Town International Airport.
  • To get the best of the weather aim to visit between November and February. Between May and September see the coldest weather, when the coastline can be very dramatic.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Mossel Bay

Best Hotels in Mossel Bay

  • The Urban Mossel Bay (Western Cape,) 4 rooms from AU$79

    Value chic  -  A great value, modern stay. Ideal for younger travellers
    Sailing  -  Boat trips take off from Romanza, just 6 km away
    Surfing  -  On nearby Mossel Bay
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Pet friendlyParking

    This four-bedroom guesthouse provides low-key living in Mossel Bay. Trendy interiors provide the perfect backdrop for this coastal getaway. Off-street parking, a fully-stocked kitchen, and open-plan living and dining areas provide homely comforts. A buffet breakfast is an added bonus. See More

    Check Availability
  • Sandpiper Cottages Mossel Bay (Western Cape) from AU$86

    Country Escape  -  Experience the slow pace of life in a rural South African fishing village, along the Garden Route
    Value chic  -  Excellent value for the whole family
    Great walks  -  There are miles of coastal pathways to be explored
    Fishing  -  Do as the locals do in this sleepy fishing town
    SpaViewsParking

    Nestled amidst the Fransmanshoek Conservancy area, Sandpiper's eight self-catering cottages provide a peaceful stay in the rustic fishing village of Boggomsbaai. Spacious, open-plan kitchen, living, and dining areas are ideals for families. Plenty of outdoor activities from birding to sand duning! See More

    Check Availability
  • Betty's Boutique Hotel Mossel Bay (Western Cape) 6 rooms from AU$113

    Local exploring  -  Walking distance from many of Mossel Bay's attractions and just 1km from the sea
    Great walks  -  Along the pristing beauty that is Santos Beach, awarded Blue Flag status
    Sailing  -  Head in search for whales on a Romanza Boat trip
    Full of character
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParking

    Quaint, quirky, one-of-a-kind. Dating back to 1903 this six-bedroom hotel provides a comfortable stay with ocean views. Each room features hardwood floors, floral quilts, colourful curios, and en-suite bathrooms. A delicious home-cooked breakfast and afternoon tea are served. See More

    Check Availability
  • Le Port Guesthouse Mossel Bay 4 rooms from AU$113

    Value chic  -  Excellent value in an excellent location
    Great walks  -  Santos Beach is just a 1km stroll away
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
    Swimming PoolParking

    Luxury guesthouse accommodation with views across the picturesque Mossel Bay. Each of Le Port's four rooms is decorated with French shabby chic flair. Home-away-from-home living provides guests with every comfort. Outdoor dining overlooking the pool is a welcome treat. See More

    Check Availability
  • New Stone Manor Mossel Bay 5 rooms from AU$126

    Value chic  -  Great value, traditional style accommodation
    Sights nearby  -  The unusual, Post Office Tree (yes, it really is a tree) was used by Portuguese explorers as a post office
    Great walks  -  The Blue Flag Santos Beach is just a 1km walk away
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Dating back to 1880 this five-bedroom family home boasts a wraparound balcony to make the most of its coastal views. Heritage style interiors create a homely feel, whilst roll-top baths add to the charm. There's a pool, a proper South-African braai set-up, plus a hearty English breakfast is served. See More

    Check Availability
  • Marine Manor on the Beach Mossel Bay (Western Cape) 8 rooms from AU$231

    Families  -  Beautiful family suites and lots of activities to keep everyone busy
    Sights nearby  -  A little further afield, children will love exploring the Cango Caves or nearby ostrich farms
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    With its stunning coastal location, Marine Manor on the Beach is a perfect stay for families and couples. Suites, decorated in light and breezy nautical palettes, boast unrivalled sea views and enormous en-suite bathrooms. Dining is superb plus there are plenty of excellent restaurants close by. See More

    Check Availability
  • African Oceans Mossel Bay 5 rooms from AU$406

    Romantic Break  -  Private dining and picnic platters: this property provides some great couples experiences
    Beach Life  -  Rooms boasting seaviews remind you that you're never too far from the beach!
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Boutique
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

    Stylish, modern suites, each boasting sea views. Every room has unique decor with vibrant colours and large en-suite bathrooms. Private alfresco dining makes for a romantic evening and the cuisine is exemplary and all locally sourced. A great place to stay in a superb location. See More

    Check Availability