Why Jacobs Bay Will Steal Your Heart (Again and Again)

Where in the world can you wake up to the sound of the ocean, the cheerful chorus of birds, and the blissful silence of no traffic? Welcome to Jacobs Bay, South Africa, a West Coast gem that stole our hearts the first time and lured us back for round two.

This quaint seaside village is where Courtney and I first discovered our love for exploring South Africa’s small towns. Returning here felt like tracing our steps back to where our travel story began – a reminder that some places are too special to visit just once.

Located just a two-hour drive from Cape Town, Jacobs Bay (or Jacobsbaai as locals call it) sits quietly along the rugged West Coast. Originally established on farmland known as 109 Jacobsbaai, the town’s name is said to have evolved from Frenchman Jacques Titius, a colonial trader in the region. It’s a place where history lingers gently in the salty air, blending seamlessly with its unspoiled beauty.

Staying at De Ware Jacob

Our home for the weekend was the same one we fell in love with before De Ware Jacob, a charming establishment with four cosy cottages surrounded by untamed beauty. It’s the kind of place designed for couples: think a rope-hanging bed, open living spaces perfect for lounging, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private braai area. The new addition? A hot tub overlooking the garden – a welcome touch of luxury.

Birds chirped outside our window and bougainvillaea bloomed in every direction, making me feel as if Greece had whisked us away, even if I’ve only seen it in photos. It’s that effortlessly romantic.

After unpacking, we soaked up the summer sun on the patio, me with a book in hand, Courtney prepping for a lekker evening braai. Just as we were winding down for the night, a scorpion decided to drop by uninvited. Let’s just say our peaceful evening turned into a brief West Coast adventure!

Lazy Mornings and Beach Bliss

With one full day to explore, we started our morning slow, cooking breakfast in our cottage with the doors open to the sound of birdsong. After a second cup of coffee (and a second nap), we made our way to the beach, just a short drive away.

The view from every corner of Jacobs Bay leads you to the ocean, but standing on the golden sand as the waves lap gently against the shore is pure magic. We kicked off our shoes, waded into the cool Atlantic, and let the calm wash over us. This is the kind of beach where time stands still, no crowds, no rush, just nature doing its thing.

Coffee, Waffles, and West Coast Charm

After soaking up the sun, we stopped by The House of Bean & Leaf, a relatively new spot in town that quickly became a favourite. Their menu is filled with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and coastal flavours from fresh seafood to decadent waffles. We opted to sit outside, savouring our drinks under the soft sea breeze while locals popped in for their afternoon fix.

Back at our cottage, Courtney decided the hot tub made a better pool and floated blissfully while I enjoyed another chapter of my book. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I fired up the braai for our last supper in paradise.

Morning came far too soon. I brewed our coffee while the sunlight streamed through the curtains and the birds resumed their morning melody. Chef Courtney whipped up a hearty breakfast, crispy bacon, mushrooms, eggs, and toast – the kind of meal that feels right at home in a place like this.

As we packed the car and said our goodbyes, I felt that familiar tug in my heart. Jacobs Bay has a quiet magic, the kind that calls you back, again and again. If you’re craving an escape from the city, where the ocean hums and time slows down, this is your sign to visit Jacobs Bay.

Who knows, maybe our third trip won’t be too far off. After all, they say the third time’s a charm.

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Till the next small town.