Paternoster, S.Africa

About Paternoster, S.Africa

Paternoster, meaning "Our Father", is one of the last few hidden gems and traditional working fishing villages to be found along the South African West Coast.  This fisherman village has escaped the advances of commercial development, leaving its authentic charm intact.  The name was derived from the prayers of the ship-wrecked Portuguese sailors.  Paternoster is a place where time stands still and the vibrancy of the locals is as colourful today as it was one hundred years ago.  It is an amazing kitesurfing spot when the SW blows onshore and the swells are up, with the perfect left and right break in the bay.  The swell ranges from 1 - 3 metres.  The SE's are gusty and dangerous as it is an offshore wind.  The best months are from October to February with wind speeds ranging from 16 - 24 knots.

Traveling to Paternoster, S.Africa

Paternoster is located about 145 km north of Cape Town with the closest airport being Cape Town International.  Car Rentals are available if you book online or at the airport.

Facilities At Paternoster, S.Africa

The closest Kitesurf Schools and shops are Wind Chasers and the Cape Sports Center in Langebaan which is approximately 34km south.  You might want to stop in at the Sixteen Mile Beach at Yzerfontein further south, with its unspoilt, stunning beach which is also a very popular wedding venue.  Activities in the area include fishing, diving; especially for crayfish, kayaking, kitesurfing, bird watching, whale, dolphin, seal and penguin watching.  You can join a crew for deep-sea angling.  Paternoster is home to some of the best seafood on the West Coast.  In season, buy your crayfish from the local fisherman fresh off the boat.  The Paternoster Dunes Guest House is nestled amongst the dunes of the Atlantic seashore on the West Coast and is one of the recommended accommodation places.