Paternoster is a picturesque fisherman’s village on the Cape West Coast. Only a 2-hour drive from Cape Town, it’s a popular weekend holiday resort for locals who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Paternoster (meaning “our father”) is one of the oldest fishing villages along the coast, and is known for its whitewashed houses with blue trimmings – which typify the charming Paternoster accommodation you can expect during your stay.
Summer or winter, it’s a gorgeous destination. In the hot, dry summer months, the village looks like it belongs on a Greek Island. In winter, you’ll find Paternoster hotels right on the beach, which is the best spot from which to enjoy the views of the stormy grey Atlantic Ocean (comfortably curled up next to a fire, of course!). Then there’s the dining. Foodies from all over South Africa flock to Paternoster to savour its famously fresh seafood and visit the celebrated (but still refreshingly low-key restaurants) for which the village has quickly gained its culinary reputation.
Explore South Africa's other sleepy coastal towns with Thompsons Holidays. We've got Knysna holiday packages, Plettenberg Bay holiday packages, Hermanus holiday packages and Jeffreys Bay holiday packages.
- Book a table at Wolfgat, voted the Best Restaurant in the World in 2019.
- Staying in self-catering Paternoster accommodation? Buy fresh crayfish and the day’s catch from the market to make at “home”.
- Visit the West Coast from late August through September to view the area’s magnificent wildflowers in full bloom.
- Visit the nearby Cape Columbine lighthouse, named for the British vessel, Columbine, that was shipwrecked in the area in 1829.
- Paternoster is a great destination for water sports such as snorkelling, diving, kite surfing and kayaking.
- Browse the stores and galleries in the village and walk the Paternoster Art Route to take home some original art.
- The area is a bird watcher’s paradise, with more than 200 species, including the endangered black oystercatcher.
- Take a stroll along the white, sandy beach of Langstrand.
Whether you visit Paternoster on a romantic weekend getaway, family holiday or as part of a road trip with your friends, the slow-paced atmosphere of the village is impossible to resist, and you will soon find yourself slipping into Paternoster-time, in tune with the tides. Book your Paternoster stay today!
When is the best time to visit?
- The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters.
- You can visit the West Coast any time of the year. Summer is popular, but winter can be a magical time to holiday along the coast and to take advantage of all the seasonal specials.
- If you’re hoping to see the region’s famous wildflowers, visit over August and September.
Getting there
- The most direct way to get from Cape Town to Paternoster is to drive via the R27 coastal highway.
What must I pack?
- The summers along the West Coast are very hot and dry, and even though the Atlantic Ocean is considered by many to be too cold to swim in, you’ll want to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip here and there!
- Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable, so always keep a light windbreaker on hand.
- Winters get very cold (and wet). Be sure to pack the appropriate clothing.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for summer holidays.
- Always travel with a mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Your camera (or just use your phone).
What can I do to become a responsible traveler?
- Be water-wise. The West Coast is a water-scarce region. Be mindful and sparing with your water usage.
- Support the local economy. Buy local food, souvenirs and support local artisans where possible at markets and pop-up stalls.
Safety tips
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for valuables.
What do I do in an emergency?
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist in any travel related emergency.
