Kogel Bay (Kogelbaai) sits along Clarence Drive, the coastal R44 that runs south from Gordon's Bay towards Rooi-Els and Kleinmond, with the Hottentots Holland mountains on one side and False Bay on the other. It's the start of the Cape Whale Route, and one of the most scenic drives in the Western Cape.
Dappat se Gat is at the far end of the beach. You reach it down a short cliff path from a pull-off on the road. The sea cave can only be entered at low tide, and the beach is known for surfing; you can watch surfers here on most days. Local lore says the name means "Dappat's Hole", after a stock thief who hid animals in the caves.
This is wild, unspoilt coast, so pack water, snacks and a blanket. There are no shops or facilities nearby. The rip currents and rocks make the water dangerous, so save your swim for another beach and enjoy the waves from the sand.
Unlike Chapman's Peak on the other side of the bay, Clarence Drive has plenty of places to pull over, so you can stop for photos often and safely.
Getting there from Green Gables
From Green Gables, drive through Gordon's Bay and follow the R44 onto Clarence Drive. Kogel Bay is about 25 minutes away, and the road hugs the coast the whole way.
To find Dappat se Gat, look for the parking area beside the road at the "Dappat se Gat" sign, marked with a shark flag. The path down to the beach starts there.
Stops along Clarence Drive
Soon after you leave Gordon's Bay, you'll pass the entrance to Crystal Pools, a hike up to a series of rock pools in the mountains. Further on is the Steenbras River Walk, and about ten minutes beyond it, Dappat se Gat.
Sparks Bay, close to Kogel Bay, has a tidal pool that the City of Cape Town describes as one of the country's most tranquil whale-watching and braai spots. You can braai, picnic and fish at the beach next to it, and there's an entrance fee. Across the road is the start of the Klipspringer Trail in the Steenbras Nature Reserve.
Kogel Bay Resort, run by the City of Cape Town, covers the beach between Sparks, Klippies and Kogel Bay itself, with camping and picnic areas. Its facilities have not always been open, so check with the City before you plan an overnight stay or a braai.
Whales and dolphins
Dolphins are often seen playing in the waves off this coast. In season, whales come close inshore, and sightings from the beach are common between about September and December. Bring binoculars and stop at any of the pull-offs when the sea is calm.
Safety tips
Only go into the cave at low tide. Check the tide times before you set off, and keep an eye on the sea while you're on the rocks.
The pull-offs along Clarence Drive are isolated. Don't leave valuables in the car, and avoid visiting alone. The road is winding, so drive it in daylight and leave time to spare.
Wind can make this stretch of coast feel very exposed. Bring a warm layer, follow local fire rules and take your rubbish home with you.
Make a day of it
Carry on along Clarence Drive to Rooi-Els, Pringle Bay and Betty's Bay, home to the Stony Point penguin colony. On the way back, stop in Gordon's Bay for a meal at the harbour.
