Driving
Beaufort West to Struisbaai
Updated: 29 May 2026
The drive from Beaufort West to the coastal town of Struisbaai covers roughly 480 kilometers. You will descend from the Karoo plateau into the Overberg region, passing through towns like Swellendam and Bredasdorp. Struisbaai is famous for its long, white sandy beach and the nearby Cape Agulhas lighthouse. This journey takes approximately 5.5 hours by car. It is a popular route for those seeking a quiet seaside getaway.
Total Distance: 480 km driving distance; 400 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the N1 and R60 takes approximately 5 hours 30 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the only practical way to reach this coastal town.
Compare Beaufort West to Struisbaai Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
5 hours 30 mins
Avg Price
R850 in fuel
Operator
Private Vehicle
Route
N1 to Worcester, R60 to Swellendam, then R319 to Struisbaai.
The R319 road is well-paved but can be busy during holiday seasons.
Travel Tips
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Sun SafetyThe sun is very strong in Struisbaai; use high-factor sunscreen even on cloudy days.
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Fishing PermitsIf you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid permit from the local post office.
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BookingBook accommodation well in advance for the December holiday period.
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GroceriesStock up on supplies in Bredasdorp, as it has larger supermarkets than Struisbaai.
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WindThe area can be very windy; bring a windbreaker for beach walks.
Safety Tips
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SwimmingOnly swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present.
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Road SafetyBe alert for cyclists and pedestrians on the R319 near Bredasdorp.
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EmergencyKeep the local NSRI (National Sea Rescue Institute) number saved.
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Vehicle SecurityLock your car and keep valuables out of sight when parked at the beach.
People Also Ask
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Is Struisbaai safe?Yes, it is a quiet and safe town, but standard precautions apply.
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Can I see stingrays?Yes, they are often found in the shallow water at the harbour.
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How far is Cape Agulhas?It is only about 10 kilometers from Struisbaai.
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Are there sharks?The area is part of the ocean, so always be aware of your surroundings when swimming.
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Is there a train?No, there is no train service to Struisbaai.
Quick Info
- From Beaufort West, Western Cape, South Africa
- To Struisbaai, Western Cape, South Africa
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
December to February for warm beach weather and swimming.
Things to Do in Struisbaai
1
Struisbaai Beach
Walk along the 14-kilometer stretch of white sand, which is one of the longest in the Southern Hemisphere.
2
Struisbaai Harbour
Watch the local fishing boats return with their catch and visit the resident stingrays at the pier.
3
Cape Agulhas Lighthouse
Visit the second-oldest working lighthouse in South Africa, located just a short drive away.
4
De Mond Nature Reserve
Explore this nearby reserve for bird watching and hiking trails along the Heuningnes River estuary.
Tags
Beaufort West to Struisbaai
driving to Struisbaai
Overberg road trip
Western Cape coast
Struisbaai travel
Karoo to coast
scenic drive South Africa
Struisbaai beach
