Thorn Bay

Thorn Bay is a self-catering accommodation establishment located in the small coastal town of Doringbaai, situated on the West Coast of South Africa. It is approximately a three-hour drive from Cape Town, accessible via either the N7 or the R27 coastal route, passing through towns like Velddrif, Elandsbaai, and Lambertsbaai. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Olifants River to the north and Lamberts Bay to the south.

The West Coast region is known for its fishing industry, whale watching opportunities, seasonal wildflowers, wine tours, and crayfish diving. A unique feature of this coast is the presence of diamond diving vessels operating on calm sea days. The Olifants River is home to approximately 70 different bird species.

Thorn Bay offers various activities for guests, including swimming, fishing, cliff-side walking trails, quad biking trails, and 4x4 trails. Visitors can also explore the nearby wineries, restaurants, and attractions such as the Kliphuis cave restaurant and the Muisbosskerm open-air beach restaurant. On calm days, guests can observe the diamond diving vessels in action.

The self-catering units at Thorn Bay are named after different fish species and designed with a sea theme. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen, TV, linens, towels, and a private braai area with views of the harbor, lighthouse, and the sea. The accommodation options include open-plan and one-bedroom units suitable for two adults and two children under 12, as well as two-bedroom units ideal for two couples and two to four children under 12.

Thorn Bay also offers on-site amenities, including a well-stocked fishery for seafood meals and braais, a trampoline, a swimming pool, a games room, a mini-gym, and a mini-library. Guests can relax and enjoy unforgettable sunsets while sipping sundowners.

Doringbaai itself has two shops, two bottle stores, fuel pumps, a sports pub, fisheries for seafood needs, and an u00e0 la carte restaurant called The Cabin, which serves breakfast, lunch, and evening meals.

Thorn Bay is situated approximately 50 meters from the sea, with a small beach in front of the property and rocky areas suitable for crayfish diving. The apartments also overlook the working lighthouse and the Fryer's Cove Winery and Restaurant located on the jetty. The two-bedroom, first-floor unit can accommodate up to four guests, featuring a double bed in the main bedroom, two single beds in the second bedroom, and a double fold-down futon in the lounge area. Linen and bath towels are provided.