Yzerfontein: Pearl Bay & Schaap Island

Date: 9 July 2010

Location: Yzerfontein

Walkers: Michele, Brenda & Helen

*** Route plotted here ***

Another walk in Yzerfontein here.


It was a magnificent warm day so a couple of us headed up the West Coast for a walk along the beach at Yzerfontein. After driving around a bit we stopped the car on the Pearl Bay side of the small town, and followed the path down to the sand. We opted to walk to the right, towards town.



It was lovely on the beach. There was a bit of a breeze, but it was still T-shirt weather (so unusual for July!). The sea wasn't as cold as we expected, and looked so clean and clear. Bit warmer and I would have considered a swim!



There are lots of rocky outcrops along this beach, and masses of black mussel shells. They made a very satisfying crunch as we walked over them.




Plenty of other things to see on the sand too.




Interesting rock formations.




This seemed to be a popular surfing beach.



The guys were having huge fun in the breakers.



Typical West Coast scenery: white sand, big blue sky.



At the far end of beach we decided to walk on to Schaap Island. It is not an island at all, but a low rocky/grassy peninsula sticking out into the ocean. We followed the path down to the crossing place, and up onto the island.





Our first stop was a delightful pool on the south side. Great spot for a dip in warmer months I'm sure.




The path lead on to a wooden cross.



Beyond that we climbed out onto the rocks. It was pretty flat and easy to navigate. At the far end of the island the waves were crashing onto the rocks, with big explosions of spray.



And there were rock pools!




Luckily for us the tide was very low and we got to see some gorgeous sea weeds and sea anemones.




After we'd done exploring the island we made our way back the same way.




Before we climbed back to the car we looked back at Schaap Island.



After our walk we went to a nearby restaurant for cold drinks and lunch.


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