Gansbaai is known as the great white shark capital of the world and boasts a magnificent coastline.  In 1881, an 18-year-old fisherman walked all the way across the dunes from Stanford to what is now known as Gansbaai and because the fishing proved so good, he promptly decided to settle here.  The fisherman made his hut from stone, daub and reeds and named the area after a colony of Egyptian geese.

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Gansbaai has since developed into a charming fishing village and holiday resort, which is home to a vibrant community.  The excellent fishing in the area means that the fishmongers are stocked with fresh produce on a daily basis, making seafood one of the most popular dishes with the locals. 

Dyer Island is famous for the breeding colony of jackass penguins that have made it their home, while seals prefer to breed on the nearby Geyser Rock.  The narrow channel between these two areas has become a feeding ground for the endangered great white shark and there are regular boating trips taken out to view the primal feasting action.

The area around Dyer Island has been declared a nature reserve and boats are only allowed to enter with a permit from the Department of Nature Conservation.  There is a warder on the island to protect the bird species also breeding here, which include the Oyster Catcher and the Swift Tern.  The coastal town itself is home to a primary school, churches of various denominations and shopping facilities to cater for the local residents.  Gansbaai continues to grow in popularity as a prime destination for boating, fishing and shark enthusiasts, as well as whale watchers. If you are interested in holiday or residential property investment then Gansbaai could be just the place for you.

Other interesting places in the surrounding area that offer prime property for sale include Franskraal, Hermanus, de Kelders, Stanford, Pearly Beach and Kleinbaai.

Nature Photos: Courtesy Gansbaai Tourism