Water sports in winter? If you’re on the West Coast, absolutely!

PRESS RELEASE

Contrary to what one might think, the call of the Atlantic becomes even louder in winter.

Just ask anyone emerging from the waters of the West Coast. While there might be an icy chill in the air and grey skies up above, there is no sight more breathtaking than clean lines on the horizon as you drive into Big Bay on a cold winter’s day.

Why this has become a favourite playground for water warriors young and old, is no secret. Right up ahead from the parking lot lies the popular Big Bay beach, while a short stroll towards Melkbos takes you to the left-hand break of Kamers and the glassy A-frames of Horse Trails. Perfect for various levels of surfing, bodyboarding and SUPing, the conditions on the day ultimately dictate whether you’re experienced enough to paddle out or not.

Winter is in fact the best time to get wet on the West Coast. Here’s why:

• Firstly, the unruly gale-force Cape Doctor will be hibernating 'til early summer.
• Secondly, the waters are much warmer during the chilly season than you’d expect.
• Thirdly, there are fewer crowds to contend with. It’s, therefore, also a great time to get skilled in a new watersport.
  
  

Big Bay has easy access to two well-known surf equipment suppliers. You can buy and rent various sized surfboards, bodyboards and wetsuits from Surf Zone, or book lessons at Cabrinha where you’ll also find a wide range of surfing, bodyboarding, SUPing and kiteboarding supplies. Should you have any questions about the changing of the tides, winds, wave periods and general surf conditions for the day, the staff will gladly assist you. If you’re keen to take part in a SUP event, you’ll be happy to know that the Big Bay Lifesaving Club frequently organises events and competitions.

Here’s what else we love about Big Bay:

• Plenty of space to wax your board
• Safe parking underground
• Car key stowage with Snoekies and Beach Bistro
• Clean showers
• Plenty of restaurants to warm up in afterwards

After a long day of sand and sea, you’ll have to agree that whoever said the ocean and beaches were only meant to be enjoyed during summer, have definitely not experienced the charm of the West Coast during winter.

Written by Shift ONE for Eden on the Bay Mall.

What to do on the West Coast this Winter Holiday

Don’t let “I’m bored mommy!” be the chart-topping single permanently on repeat this holiday.

To keep parents from going completely off their rocker, here are some great ideas on what to do with your kids on the West Coast this holiday.

1. Free and easy:
Weather-permitting, this is first prize – it’s free, it’s physical, and the kids come back happy, hungry and tired! Bliss.

• Sheltered jungle gym at Eden on the Bay – This enclosed jungle gym is ideal for when the kids need to spend energy and its windy and wet outside. Kids under five eat for free at Snoekies, and the Vida e Café cappuccino will make everything feel all better again.

• Bloubergstrand beach and tidal rock pools – A great way to spend time together looking for shells and pretty pebbles. Bring wellies, buckets and spades.

• Small Bay – ‘Mommy’s beach’ as it’s affectionately known offers a grassed area with a sprawling jungle gym, great for picnics and play, with the beach nearby and the sea tickling your toes.

• Blouberstrand Promenade – Stroll or cycle the promenade, buy a hot pancake on chilly days, or enjoy an ice-cream on those days where winter is forgotten.

Koeberg Nature Reserve (photo by Andrew Massyn)

• Cycle or hike at Koeberg Nature Reserve –This free nature reserve has some lovely game, from springbok to eland. With kiddie-friendly routes, you can choose anything from an hour to a day outing.

2. Other fun outdoor activities:

• My Citi Bus – take the family on an adventure ride to the city and surrounds. Kids love the idea of going somewhere on a big blue bus. The My Citi Bus is a great way to do this. From around R10 per person one way.

• West Coast Farm Stall / Lion Park at Yzerfontein – take your kids to see the white lions, Siberian tigers and jaguars, and eat the best scones on the West Coast. Need we say more?

3. But baby it’s cold outside…
When it’s wet and wintery, and cabin fever is driving you nuts, here are some great options for you.

• Mommy mornings at Izabella’s – This cosy restaurant at Eden on the Bay in Big Bay hosts mommy mornings every Tuesday morning from 9am – 11am. With kiddies’ tables and chairs, and activities to keep tots busy, mommies can enjoy a cuppa while chatting to friends and family, or reading a magazine.

• Dragonland– A stunning new indoor play centre with a modest coffee shop. Safe, clean and spacious. Woolies and China Town are close by so you can do shopping while the kids play.

• Tots n Pots – For hands-on cooking workshops for moms, dads and toddlers. Based in Table View you can enjoy quality time together with your little ones, and someone else does the tidying up! Book with Charmaine@totsnpots.com.

• Creative Kids Corner at Eden on the Bay – Fun and creative crafts and activities on offer during the school holidays with a  full-time minder from 11am – 2pm. Book with monicaboshoff@gmail.com. You can shop and relax while the kids are inspired. Plus, kids under five eat for free at Snoekies. Definitely a win/win situation!

We hope that helps you with the ‘I’m bored’ scenario. Now if only we had a solution to ‘Are we there yet?’!

To connect with Eden on the Bay go to:
@edenOnTheBaywww.edenonbigbay.co.za
info@edenonbigbay.co.za
www.facebook.com/edenonthebay

Written for Eden on the Bay by Candace van Zyl from Shift ONE. Contact candace@shiftone.co.za for more.