It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that Heritage Day, also known in South Africa as Braai Day, is on top of the list when it comes to the most highly anticipated public holidays in our country. It is a tradition among locals to celebrate special occasions (or any occasion, for that matter) over an open fire, surrounded by friends and family.
It is a staple in most Capetonian households to find a braai (known to international guests as a barbecue, or BBQ), located on the property – be it outside in the backyard or built on to a balcony or patio. In fact, it is almost strange to visit a local in our country who doesn’t braai regularly. In summer we braai to enjoy the sunshine and clear skies, in winter we braai to keep warm by the fire, there really is no bad time to get together for a braai in South Africa.
Thus, braaing has formed an integral part of our South African heritage and is a big part of our Heritage Day celebrations. If you find yourself enjoying time in Cape Town around the 24th September and in search of braai facilities, here a few spots to visit for a fun braai with friends.
Eerste Steen, Melkbosstrand – Located in the lovely seaside suburb of Melkbosstrand, Eerste Steen can be found within the Blaauwberg Conservation Area, where water sports activities can be enjoyed and an abundance of unique plant-life can be discovered further along. Eerste Steen offers visitors shaded spots for those sunshiny days and is regularly enjoyed for braais by groups of locals. Tourists spending their time here can’t get enough of the surrounding views of Table Mountain and the refreshing ocean air. The braai areas are Eerste Steen are open from 8 am to 7 pm in summer (from November to April), and from 8 am to 5 pm in winter (May-October). The entrance fee is kept affordable to all, at only R18 per car.
Oudekraal Beach – The beautiful Oudekraal beach is probably one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets. Sheltered and wonderfully scenic, visitors can discover semi-private braaing areas just a bit further along the hill, while the soft sea sand if perfect for a picnic. Nestled between the glamorous seaside villages of Camps Bay and Llandudno, Oudekraal welcomes families with children and beach lovers form all over the world. What better way to enjoy a truly Capetonian braai on Heritage Day than to bask in a breathtaking oceanfront displays right before you. This beach is closed on week days but can be enjoyed from 8 am to 6 pm over weekends and over public holidays. Entry is R35 per adult and R15 per child.
Preekstoel, Langebaan – With a great selection of braai spots right by beach offering stunning views of the ocean and of Langebaan Lagoon, Preekstoel is an incredibly popular public braai area. Langebaan is a favourite among holiday goers, with so many exciting attractions and of course, wonderful family friendly beaches. As Preekstoel forms part of the West Coast National Park, visitors can enjoy the rich bird-life and should also keep a lookout for Southern Right whales (commonly seen in August and September). It is best to arrive early on Braai Day though, as the braai areas are available on a “first come, first serve” basis and this area will likely get busier throughout the day. Entry Fee to Preekstoel on Braai Day will cost R56 per adult and R28 per child.
Mzoli’s Place, Gugulethu – A visit to the friendly Mzoli’s Place is an amazing way to embrace South African culture and our proud African heritage, with an amazing vibe and great music by live local DJ’s. Located in the heart of the famous Gugulethu Township, tourists and locals frequently visit Mzoli’s for a memorable outing. Visitors can bring their own drinks along and buy their meat and any tasty side dishes (like pap or chakalaka) at the Mzoli Butchery in order to enjoy a unique and casual braaing experience. Make friends, soak up the sunshine and meet interesting people, all while the air is lifted with the smell of flavourful braai meat and the exciting atmosphere. Mzoli’s in likely to be very busy on Braai day though, so come early and make sure to get a braai spot before they are all taken.
Little Bay, Blouberg – Surrounded by some of the best waves in the country and popular all year around, Little Bay Beach is well loved and regularly visited by families with kids. Here, it is not uncommon to see kite surfers brightening up the sky with colour, while local and visiting surfers spend plenty of time at the beach too. There are awe-inspiring views of the ocean and Table Mountain to appreciate from Little Bay, while the braai area is located on a lovely green lawn, perfect for picnics. On Braai Day this year, gather a group of friends together to experience all the joy of seaside braaing along one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches.
Helderberg Farm, Stellenbosch – Enjoy the scenic drive through the vineyards and valleys of Stellenbosch and spend this year’s Braai Day at Helderberg Farm. There is something for everyone here, in addition to the amazing braai facilities. Explore the area by discovering the various hiking trails, or embark on a 4×4 adventures. There is also a Farmyard Nursery and place for children to play freely – strawberry picking is a popular activity at Helderberg Farm (picking closed on Sunday’s). This lovely rustic farm offers plenty of shade and is sheltered from the wind by big forest trees, with a tea-garden and kiosk close by. Heritage Day is all about celebrating over a fire and to enjoy the braai area here is affordable, at only R50 per adult, R25 per child and R50 for a braai drum. Bookings welcome.
A few of our properties with great braai facilities:
Kingshaven 91 – This beautiful holiday home is located in the heart of Bloubergstrand, perfectly equipped to provide holiday guests with an amazing experience. Only a short walk from the stunning West Coast, up to 6 guests can spend time in this self-catering home. With a large outdoor entertainment area that includes a built in braai and dining set up, those staying here can celebrate Heritage Day in style. Upstairs, a lovely balcony offers amazing views, while inside a large and welcoming lounge boasts a flat screen TV (with DStv connection) and an alluring fireplace. Also enjoy 3 gorgeous bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and secure parking. Blouberg is an exciting suburb that offers guests an array of restaurants and family-friendly attractions. For more info on Kingshaven 91 in Blouberg, click here.
La Cabina 503 – A charming self-catering apartment for 2 people, holiday guests can enjoy the excitement of Blouberg while on vacation here. With stunning views of Table Mountain and the sea from a private balcony, braaing as the sun sets in the background is truly an exceptional experience. Celebrate braai day with your significant other and cook up something amazing on the gas braai. The apartment is stylishly decorated in blue and white, with views of the ocean visible from the open plan living area and fully-equipped kitchen. Wifi and DStv connectivity are also available, while visitors can discover a world of excitement right outside their front door. For more info on La Cabina 503 in Blouberg, click here.
Eden On The Bay 129 – For an unforgettable holiday only minutes from the coast and the vibrant Eden on the Bay promenade, this 4 sleeper self-catering apartment features 2 stylish bedrooms. Forming part of the modern metropolis that is Eden on the Bay, families and friends won’t have to go far to spend time at the beach, discover a few popular restaurants or do some shopping. The balcony is the perfect spot for an intimate braai, with the ocean just beyond. This apartment offers a lovely open planned kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a flat screen TV in the contemporary lounge which has DStv connection. Guests can also enjoy Wifi connectivity and safe undercover parking. For more info on Eden on the Bay 129, click here.
To browse through our entire selection of holiday accommodation, click here to visit Blouberg Holiday Rentals website. We offer a stunning selection of self-catering holiday homes, villa’s and apartments in and around the Bloubergstrand area of Cape Town.