 Early inhabitants of the region... As with most of South Africa's history, very little is known about Arniston's history prior to the appearance of the first European settlers. It is believed that the Khoisan people (Hottentots/Bushmen) lived along these shores as Strandlopers (beach combers). Very little remains of their existence here except for the occasional 'midden' of shell fish remains and a few paintings and artifacts discovered in the surrounding area. Their contact with Europeans proved fatal as a result of the smallpox and measles epidemics these travellers brought with them. The last surviving Strandloper is documented as having lived her final days in a cave, now named Bientang's cave in her memory, in nearby Hermanus. The arrival of the first europeans... The southern coast of Africa is famous for its position as a sea route to the East. The jagged coastline with its countless wrecks is a chilling tribute to these sea farers of yesteryear! Arniston derives its name from one of these wrecks, namely the British 'Arniston' which sank here in 1815. Only 6 of the 378 passengers on board survived. The area is also known as, 'Waenhuiskrans'. Literally translated it means oxwagon cave and takes its name from a huge cave which was used to house the oxen and wagons used by the settlers.  The earliest documentation (1820) records the area as 'Crown Land' used by fishermen and it remains partly a fishing village to this day. As with most South African towns, Arniston has seen many land disputes. The most recognisable of these being the Kassiesbaai area which historically is home to Arniston's fishing community. After much dispute, the picturesque little village is preserved intact with its rightful owners and provides much of Arniston's old world charm! |
At Arniston, mother nature has ensured
that you can 'get away from it
all'. Whether you enjoy sun
tanning on unspoilt white beaches, watching
whales breaching in the bay or more active
pursuits such as hiking or exploring the
countryside, Arniston has something to offer
everyone. What we can't offer are
smoke-filled bars, noisy disco's or the buzz of a
city that never sleeps. But, if you want to
experience fresh sea air, the thrill of fishing,
exhilarating walks in pristine countyside,
snorkelling in clear rock pools, diving amongst the
many ocean wrecks, mountain biking and exploring
the multitude of coastal caves, then you will be in
the right place. All this activity (or lack thereof) can make one rather hungry. No experience of the Southern Tip of Africa is complete without a culinary adventure - and at Arniston, that is what we will offer you! Sea food is of course a must and eating out knowing that your fish has been caught that day by the very fishermen you saw leaving early that morning, is always a treat! |
Accommodation Arniston Lodge is a double-storey thatched roof house designed to blend with the traditional cottages of the charming fishing village, Kassiesbaai. The Lodge is located just a few minutes' walk-away from the Arniston beaches and provides sleeping facilities for eight guests, hosting four bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. Things to do bird watching 
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