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A beach in the heart of fynbos country
Hartenbos Beach, Mossel Bay
Hartenbos Beach
© WESSA Blue Flag
Did you know?
Hartenbos was originally called 'Hart en Bosch', meaning 'deer and bush'.
Hartenbos Beach, a Blue Flag beach, promises visitors ‘everything under the sun’.
This beach earned its prestigious Blue Flag status for its strict control of water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management and safety.
The kilometres of clean sand are perfect for long walks, and the beach lends itself to a range of other activities. You can swim at several designated spots and enjoy beachfront facilities, like a heated indoor pool, a supertube, a bowling green, tennis courts, an amusement centre, conference facilities and a stadium for festivals.
The beautiful and safe lagoon of the Hartenbos River is also great for family-friendly water sports, and is known as a good fishing spot for shad and white steenbras.
Hartenbos beach also attracts watchers of whales, dolphins and seals, as well as nature enthusiast and birders who enjoy the abundant wildlife, particularly near the river mouth, which is an active breeding ground for sea birds.
The location of Hartenbos Beach between Mossel Bay and George means visitors have easy access to the rest of the Garden Route.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Mossel Bay Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)44 691 2202
ATKV Hartenbos Beach Resort
Tel: +27 (0)44 601 7200/19/20
Fax: +27 (0)44 695 0770
Email: hartenbos@atkv.org.za
How to get here
From George airport, take the N2 towards Cape Town and follow the signs to Hartenbos. From Cape Town, take the N2 to Port Elizabeth and follow the signs for Hartenbos.
Tours to do
Visit the Hartenbos Museum, which has an impressive display depicting various aspects of South African history and culture.
Where to stay
The beach has a camping and caravan site and holiday chalets. The ATKV Hartenbos holiday village just north of Mossel Bay also provides good accommodation options.
