St Helena Bay Property | West Coast

St Helena Bay is situated on the Cape West Coast and owes its establishment to the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who discovered this particular area in 1497 during his pioneer journey from Europe to India.  The name is taken from the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, who is reputed to have been a devout and influential Christian at the time.

Today, St Helena Bay is one of the world’s foremost fishing centres, as a result of the cold Benguela current surging along this part of the coast and bringing with it water rich in nutrients and attracting hordes of marine life.  Snoek is a popular catch in winter and the harbour is always a vibrant buzz of activity, with fish being sold straight off the boats.  The area is responsible for over half of the fish processed in South Africa each year.

A popular tourist destination on the West Coast, St Helena Bay comes alive during the wild flower season, with visitors coming from all corners of the world to relax and unwind.  There are stunning views of the bay and across to the Piketberg Mountains from the granite hilltops that frame this quaint fishing village and whale watching is another favourite during calving season.  Whether you are interested in a holiday or simply want property here, St Helena Bay is well worth a visit.