Where to stay in Coffee Bay

Local travel is just as thrilling as international travel. This year has been an eye opener to the fact that South Africa has so much more to offer than the popular holiday destinations that I repeatedly visit. My friend, Tshepi, and I came across Coffee Bay in our search for a South African gem that we had not visited before. After doing a quick Google search, we were sold and made arrangements to travel there over a long weekend.

For more information about Coffee Bay read about how I  planned a trip to Coffee Bay.

White Clay Resort

On a green hill, in rural Eastern Cape, lies White Clay Resort. A comfortable resort with neat log cabins facing the rough waves of the Wild Coast. There is something so relaxing about being located along such an undisturbed coast line and neighbouring the homes of the locals on the hills. It’s calming, naturally wonderful, chilled and also vibrant and fun. I had never seen anything like it before – it was truly a unique experience that left me feeling responsible for making sure everyone makes a plan to visit.

The food at White Clay Resort

They have a restaurant there that serves some of the best seafood I have ever had. I am not just saying that! We ate there every night and enjoyed each time like it was our first. It was love at first taste on our first night when we each ordered a seafood basket. It was made up of calamari, mussels, fish and chips. The food is as fresh as it gets! Another favourite was the mussel chowder starter – heavenly.

The vibe in the restaurant is casual and comfortable. Aaaaaand it’s overlooking the ocean.

That brings me to my next point…

The views at White Clay Resort

When I say that White Clay is located right on the beach, I mean right on the beach.

It’s on a hill with the ocean at its base. This gives an extended view of the ocean – as far as the eye can see. The continuous sound of the waves crashing  in the background is so soothing.

We stayed in the cabin called Garrick. While sitting/lying in bed the ocean is in full view. It was so special to see dolphins swim by.

The stars at night

The stars looked so bright against the black of the night. I felt so at rest and took a moment to reflect while under the stars. It’s important to take time out away from the hurry and stress of everyday life to calm your mind and refocus. Staring at the stars was a refresher of the wonder of the world.

The comfort

The Garrick cabin is a spacious four sleeper with four single beds – two per room. The bathroom has a shower and large bathtub. The kitchen has a stove, oven, fridge, microwave and toaster and is fully stocked with pots and crockery. There is a dining area beside the kitchen as well as braai facilities. It’s everything you need for a quiet time away with family or friends by the ocean.

The friendly staff

The resort is owned and run by Roy who was born and raised in Mthatha, Eastern Cape. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine warmth. Throughout our stay, friendly faces greeted us and ensured that we were comfortable and happy. We hiked to Hole in the wall on our first day there. It’s about 9km away from White Clay Resort. I think we may be unfit because though the hike was an incredible experience, it was exhausting. Fortunately, Roy came to our rescue and gave us a lift back to the resort. Our unfit selves are still so grateful!

Coffee bay is better than it looks on the internet. It will always have a special place in my heart because it’s so different to any place I have been before. I encourage you to arrange a trip there and stay at White Clay Resort too. Let me know how you find it and please eat as much seafood as you can for me.

For more information on bookings, visit http://www.whiteclayresort.co.za/