For the Surfer / Traveller the best accommodation, which will slip you straight into the J-Bay Surf scene is Island Vibe Backpackers (042 293 1625). The hostel is perched on top of a small cliff overlooking the length of the beach with a 270-degree view of wave action. So, all you have to do is wake up, fall out of bed, stagger across the lawn then, opening your eyes, you can check out the surf. From the lawn there are a few steps down to the beach and then nothing but sand for miles upon miles. The hostel also offers guests FREE mountain bikes, has a well stocked bar, surfboard hire, meals in the summer and a huge reputation for parties!

The top three activities in J-Bay are:
1. (You guessed it) Surfing,
2. Sand boarding and
3. Abseiling.
If the surf is flat the last two make for good alternatives.

There are also the Bushman Caves. Evidence suggests that in these caves you can see the beginnings of man. The paintings on the cave walls were painted by the Khoi San, meaning Tribe of Bushman.

The town itself is pleasant enough but won't impress you as picturesque or quaint - it is a beach town, fairly low key and on the club scene, unimpressive. However, if you are in J-Bay, here are the recommendations as to where to eat. Walskipper, set on the beach for good meat and seafood dishes. Breakers for a menu to cater for a wide variety of tastes and Le Grotto Steak House for cheap steaks with pronto service.

In the summer, J-Bay is at it's busiest but the surf is at it's flattest. However, the town livens up and there are loads of beach activities. In the winter, J-Bay becomes sleepy and very chilled, excellent for those seeking space on the beach and the waves are kicking (man!).

Whales can be found offshore, feeding and breeding from June to October. I saw whales practically everyday I was there, some only 50 metres off shore. As for sharks, well let me tell you about sharks - you've got nothing to worry about. Less than six people a year die from shark attacks, over two hundred people a year are killed by coconuts falling out of trees - That's what I heard and I'm sticking to it!

Other events for the year are the Shell Festival in September and the Billabong Pro Surf Competition in the first week of June. J-Bay is a worthwhile stop for the traveller to get an insight into the South African surf scene and also to pick up some great deals on surf wear, at the Billabong and Quicksilver factory outlets.

Questions?
If you want more information about this area you can email the author or check out our Africa Insiders page.