South Africa's coastline sparkles! Eight local beaches won international recognition at the 2003 Blue Flag Awards, a European-based campaign which measures beaches against strict environmental, tourist and safety standards.

Blue Flag certification started as an environmental and tourism campaign in Europe to assure visitors that certified beaches are clean, safe and environmentally sound. Blue Flag status is only awarded to those beaches that achieve excellence in water quality, environmental education and information, and adhere to international safety standards. High levels of cleanliness, the quality of facilities (toilets and showers) and professional lifeguard services are key criterion of Blue Flag beaches.

No matter if you're from Australia's Gold Coast, Florida or Spain, if you enjoy the beach and the ocean you're heading to the right place. There's no doubt about it, the Western Cape has some of the most spectacular beaches in the world. This is sun seeker's paradise.

South Africa, a World in One Country, is a land rich in history, culture and a great diversity of scenic splendor from the pulsating rhythms of the bushveld, through deserts and along pristine beaches, to cosmopolitan cities, South Africa has something to offer every traveler

Hermanus is built along the shores of Walker Bay near the Southern most tip of Africa. Magnificent mountains watch over the town which is home of the Southern Right Whale. Nature lovers from all over the world visit Hermanus to view these magnificent creatures from the best land based whale watching destination in the world.

South Africa's coastline sparkles! Eight local beaches won international recognition at the 2003 Blue Flag Awards, a European-based campaign which measures beaches against strict environmental, tourist and safety standards.

Algoa Bay boasts 40 km of magnificent coast-line and protected beaches, complemented by a perfect combination of warm water, calm sea and fair breezes. These beaches include King's Beach, Humewood Beach, Hobie Beach, Pollok Beach, Brighton Beach, Bluewater Bay, St George's Strand and Wells Estate.

At the northwest tip of South Africa's Cape Peninsula lies Clifton Beach, a haven for international hipsters and jet-setters. Clifton is actually a series of four beaches, each separated by a stretch of granite boulders. The beach is sprawling and clean, reflecting the brilliant African sunshine off white sand and throngs of tanned bodies. A distinct vibe is felt at Clifton, owing in part to the mystique of Table Mountain, which looms gorgeously in the beach's background.

Summer time is beach time in Jeffreys Bay. Thousands of holidaymakers will be joining locals on the beach and in the waves during December and January.