Stilbaai
Stilbaai, also known as Still Bay, is a peaceful seaside town in the Hessequa region of the Western Cape and forms part of the western gateway to the Garden Route. The town lies approximately 26 kilometres from the N2, positioned between Riversdale and Mossel Bay, with George Airport around 140 kilometres away.
What makes Stilbaai so appealing is its natural setting. The town is built around the Goukou River estuary, sandy beaches, coastal fynbos, rocky shoreline, nature reserves and open spaces. The river is navigable for small vessels for approximately 15 kilometres, making it a strong lifestyle drawcard for boating, paddling, fishing, water sports and relaxed family holidays.
Stilbaai offers a property market that appeals to a wide range of buyers. From permanent family homes and low-maintenance townhouses to holiday properties, retirement homes and larger coastal residences, the area caters to those looking for space, lifestyle and long-term value. Stilbaai Wes and Stilbaai Oos each offer their own appeal, with buyers often drawn to proximity to the beach, river access, views, quiet streets and the relaxed pace of coastal living.
The town has retained its holiday-town charm while continuing to grow in popularity. Residents have access to local shops, restaurants, medical services, outdoor activities, schools in the broader region and a strong community atmosphere. For buyers who want coastal living without the intensity of larger towns, Stilbaai offers a calm, established and highly liveable alternative.
Stilbaai is also rich in heritage and natural significance. The area forms part of a protected coastal environment, with CapeNature noting its variety of habitats including dunes, sandy beach, rocky shore, coastal fynbos, salt marshes, reefs and estuarine reeds. The ancient fish traps and surrounding marine environment add further cultural and ecological value to the area.
Attractions
Goukou River
The Goukou River is one of Stilbaai’s biggest lifestyle assets, offering boating, paddling, fishing, scenic views and a relaxed riverfront atmosphere.
Lappiesbaai Beach
Lappiesbaai Beach is one of Stilbaai’s best-known beaches and is popular with families, holidaymakers and those who enjoy long beach walks, swimming and summer seaside living.
Stilbaai Harbour
The harbour is one of the town’s most recognisable spots, offering a working coastal character, fishing activity and beautiful views over the surrounding coastline.
Skulpiesbaai Nature Reserve
Skulpiesbaai Nature Reserve adds to Stilbaai’s natural appeal with coastal scenery, birdlife and access to one of the area’s protected natural environments.
Ancient Fish Traps
The ancient stone fish traps are an important cultural and archaeological feature, offering insight into the area’s early coastal history and connection to the sea.
Inverroche Distillery
Inverroche Distillery is one of Stilbaai’s most recognised lifestyle attractions, known for its fynbos-inspired gin and local tasting experience.
Stilbaai Museum of Archaeology
The museum offers visitors insight into the region’s archaeological history, including the broader Blombos Cave and early human culture story.
Jongensfontein
Just west of Stilbaai, Jongensfontein is a peaceful coastal village known for its rugged coastline, sea views and holiday-home appeal.
“Stilbaai has become one of those coastal towns where lifestyle and long-term property value meet naturally. Buyers are not only drawn to the beaches and river, but to the sense of space, safety, community and calm that the town offers. From holiday homes and retirement properties to permanent family residences, Stilbaai continues to attract people who want a better quality of life in a well-established coastal setting. Well-priced homes in good locations, especially those close to the river, beach or with views, remain highly appealing to both local and relocating buyers.”
Daniel Atkins, TruHomeProperties in Stilbaai
