Kalk Bay’s streets are often gently bustling with locals and tourists alike, taking in the beauty of this popular seaside town. From the fishing village’s quaint stores, delicious eateries and beautiful harbour, its easy to see why Forbes named Kalk Bay one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world back in 2018.
The seaside town along the False Bay coast was first established in 1742 as a mini-port for Dutch sailors. Since then, fishing has become a way of life for many of its residents over the centuries. While the decades have seen many changes to this area, one mainstay is its iconic lighthouse and harbour.
The Kalk Bay harbour is one of the last active fishing harbours on the Cape Peninsula. According to Kalk Bay Historical Association, construction on the harbour began in 1913. The beach attached to the harbour was known as Fishery Beach, the spot where all the fishermen would bring their boats to shore after hours of fishing.
Today, people from far and wide flock to the area to indulge in fresh fish, and also enjoy the company of the many seals that call it home.
The Kalk Bay lighthouse stands strong and tall on the pier off the main road. This prominent landmark was built in 1919, and is a must see for visitors. Featuring a red-and-white striped tower, this beacon was established to safely light the way of sailors on the sea.
The area is well-known for receiving huge waves on the bay, living up to the ‘Cape of Storms’ moniker. In 2016, photographer Nigel Riley captured these stunning pictures of a storm crashing on the lighthouse.
Despite these massive waves, the lighthouse stands firm. It weathers any storm, much like its residents and Capetonians in general.
Picture: Nigel Riley
Also read: Kalk Bay’s Filipino heritage