Things to Do in Sedgefield

Sedgefield Beach

Walking along and exploring Sedgefield beach is fun for the whole family. There is much to see and spectacular views to be admired. Sedgefield beach runs into Swartvlei Beach and estuary, which is sheltered from the wind by the sandstone cliffs and is safe for the little ones to swim in.

©Roger de la Harpe
Beach scene at sunset, Sedgefield.

During high season, lifeguards will mark out safe swimming zones in the sea as there are strong rip currents in the area. This is a protected area where African Black Oysters breed and with a license you may be able to catch a few here. Whale and dolphin spotting is popular here, as is horse riding, surfing and other water sports. It’s also the perfect spot for sundowners!

Gericke's Point

©Chris Daly
The scenic beauty of Gericke's Point.
©Peter Delaney
Gericke's Point beach near Sedgefield.

You can enjoy a beach run from Gericke’s Point to Groenvlei Beach and back near Sedgefield. You start running from the car park at Swartvlei beach. In the west you will see the most beautiful rock formation that enters the ocean; this is, of course, Gericke’s Point.

So head east and leave the best for last. It is a good idea to check the tides before you run this stretch of beach, of course low tide is easier on the legs, but not only that, two kilometres into the run, you will come across the Swartvlei Lagoon, which can be a tricky affair to cross. Only one hour after low tide, the water already reaches waist height, meaning you'll be running with wet pants past the famous Myoli beach.

There are plenty of other trails to choose from in the Goukamma Nature Reserve itself. The Goukamma Nature Reserve lies between the towns of Sedgefield and Buffalo Bay and the main office is situated on the Buffalo Bay side of the reserve, and it is well worth a visit. Here you will find information on 6 additional trails that you can follow. The Galjoen trail continues on the beach after Goukamma Beach and all the way to Buffalo Bay, a further 12 kilometres (one way). The other trails range from 4-15 kilometres.

Sedge Links

©Roger de la Harpe
The Goukamma Nature Reserve, Sedgefield.

If you drive from Wilderness to Sedgefield on the N2, look out for a sign that says Sedge Links, just before you cross the Swartvlei Bridge outside Sedgefield. Follow the bumpy tar road all the way to the beach and park your car at the Swartvlei beach car park. 

The Goukamma Nature Reserve comprises an area of about 2 500 hectare, with a coastline of 14 kilometres, and the adjacent marine protected area extends seawards for 1.8 kilometres. The nature reserve includes a long beach, an extensive dune field with some of the highest vegetated dunes in South Africa, the Goukamma River and estuary, and the unique Groenvlei lake which has no in-flowing river and no link to the sea. The area is great for mountain biking and taking in the scenic surroundings.

Enjoy Craft Beer

©Chris Daly
Enjoy a cold beer at the Sedgefield Craft Brewery, Garden Route.

For those who are looking for indoor activities, head over to the Sedgefield Craft Brewery for an ice cold beer on tap. The brewery is a boutique style craft brewery and specialises in high quality handcrafted beer. The family-owned establishment makes traditional beer, including Blonde Ale, Irish Red Ale, India Pale Ale, Weiss beer, Porter and for special occasions, the popular American Pale Ale ‘Tiddly Tortoise’.

Swartvlei Estuary

©Roger de la Harpe
The Swartvlei Estuary, Sedgefield.

The Swartvlei estuary is a beautiful, tranquil area that will provide peace and quiet for holiday-makers looking to relax and unwind. Birding enthusiasts will be in their element, with plenty of water birds to view. Boating on the Swartvlei is a thoroughly enjoyable and popular activity for holiday-makers.

All kinds of boats such as paddle-boats, rubber-ducks, sailing boats, catamarans, motor-boats and canoes are allowed on the water, provided you have a permit. You can enjoy a guided cruise around Swartvlei Lake that leaves at regular intervals from Pine Lake Marina every day.

Accommodation in Sedgefield

Accommodation in Sedgefield offers guests a relaxing and tranquil spot that is ideal for couples, families and friends on a weekend getaway ...more

Sedgefield

Sedgefield is a coastal town on the Garden Route in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is situated on the N2 national road, betwe...more