Arniston, or Waenhuiskrans, whichever you wish to call it, is a quaint fishing village with perfect and unspoilt white beaches and dunes, which is only about 2 1/2 hours drive from Cape Town. Known for the whitewashed fisherman's cottages along the beach, it is a perfect retreat for those wishing to relax and find some peace, as many writers and artists are known to do.
Although it is quiet for most of the year, the December holidays bring the village to life with young people and families visiting. Nature lovers will enjoy a to visit the nearby De Hoop Nature Reserve for wonderful whale-watching (in season), bird watching and many species of Fynbos. The neighbouring town of Bredasdorp is also worth a visit and is home to the fascinating Shipwreck Museum. The Cape Agulhas stretch of coastline was notoriously dangerous - and one of the many ships that ran aground was The Arniston in 1815.
The official name of the village is Waenhuiskrans - named after the secret tidal cavern to be found along the shoreline. It is called this because it is large enough to turn a wagon with a full team of oxen. There is a marked pathway so that one can find it easily, however the actual entrance can be easily missed.
