Gerickes Point

About Gerickes Point

Visitors that have booked gorgeous accommodation in Sedgefield can look forward to time slowing down and the locals punctuating your day with friendly smiles. And it is in this idyllic setting that Gerickes Point and the Swartvlei Beach lie in wait for anyone that wants to savour the secluded, wild beauty of the South African coastline. It is only a 10-minute drive from the centre of Sedgefield to the beach.

Gerickes Point is quite literally the point at which the long Swartvlei Beach takes a sharp turn. It is a rocky outcrop that may be relatively small (in comparison to the vast stretches of the beach on either side of it), but offers a world of adventure and natural beauty. This sandstone formation juts out of the sandy surrounds, offering a stunning vantage point from the top. It is relatively easy to climb (even barefoot), although there are some slippery sections that aren't ideal for visitors that aren't steady on their feet.

From its apex, you can gaze out onto the Indian Ocean, watch the impressive waves roll in and the surfers taking advantage of them, and even see dolphins and whales in the warm waters. In fact, every year, between July and December, humpback and southern right whales come past this part of the Garden Route and enjoy entertaining their human spectators with blasts of air, some lobtailing, and plenty of peeking out from the water to see what's happening on the land.

At the foot of Gerickes Point, there are incredible rock pools. Their waters are turquoise and often warmed by the sun, making them fabulous for a quick dip (even for little ones). They are teeming with life, coral, and shells and are so much fun to explore. Even children can safely snorkel here as the tide goes out, as they are shallow and are not particularly influenced by the waves. However, it's important to come here when the tide is going out for the best and safest snorkelling. When the tide comes in, these rock pools disappear under a sheet of water.

The walk from the parking area to Gerickes Point is about two kilometres long and is entirely along the flat sands of the beach. Along the way, there are fossil dunes and fascinating rock formations. Visitors that want some privacy can often find a secluded spot in the rocks; where the views are spectacular and only the occasional family may amble past.

Gerickes Point is a favourite spot for fishermen, who love to stand on the rocks below the massive sandstone head and cast their lines for garrick, shad, cob and mussel cracker.

There are ablutions at the parking area of the Swartvlei Beach, as well as an outdoor shower to get rid of the sand.