Whether you’re a party animal, sun worshipper, adventurer, nature lover, bird watcher, golfer, fisherman, or simply want to escape the rat race and chill, our little piece of paradise offers a variety of experiences.
Our movie location stretch of beach is among the finest Indian Ocean settings from which to experience one of nature’s greatest mysteries; the annual sardine run. Filmed by CNN, the BBC and National Geographic, it is the biggest faunal event to occur in our coastal waters and is a phenomenon not seen anywhere else in the world. Little wonder it has been dubbed “the greatest shoal on earth”. The winter migration of these fish can be sighted during June and July.
During the rest of the year, enjoy long solitary walks along the sands past the wreck of the “Nightingale” (1933) or an evening bonfire at the water’s edge as the lights of ocean liners drift by and the hurricane lamps of crab hunters dart through the darkness.
A short walk from The Merry Crab is the swimming and surfing bay known as Glenmore Beach. Here families play safely in the warm shark protected water, surfers ride the rollers and power boats put out to sea under the watchful eyes of lifesavers (during holiday seasons and over weekends).
At Dolphin Bay, the view of the waves crashing onto the outcrop of smooth giant boulders is spectacular. It is also an ideal fishing and whale watching spot. South of Dolphin Bay is Beacon Rock which, at spring tides when the moon is fullest, is excellent for crayfishing.
Across the Itongasi River a tavern and hotel are tucked away on the beach and, high above the lagoon to the south, a cafe and pub. Pulpit Rock, another favourite fishing spot, is located here.
Our stretch of coastline has become a world class golfing destination, earning it the title of “Golf Coast.” Six golf courses, four of which are a few minutes away from the Merry Crab, welcome visiting golfers and provide them with spectacular settings, excellent greens and fairways on which to play.
An easy walk takes guests of The Merry Crab to the Munster Sports Club where tennis, squash and bowls can be played by prior arrangement. Guests also have access to the Angler’s Club, a favourite fisherman’s watering hole situated above the boat launching beach.
There are several fine restaurants in the area (including Italian, German, French and Portuguese). For those seeking the bright lights the Wild Coast Sun with its restaurants, pubs, shows, casino and new water world is only ten minutes away.
Other activities to be enjoyed in the vicinity include beach horse riding, quad and mountain biking, hiking, kite flying, sea safaris, deep sea fishing and shark cage diving.
Truly something for everyone!