satellite image of the cape peninsula

Situated in a luscious bay where sun meets sky and the breeze is always fresh, Fish Hoek is more than 2 kilometers wide and runs through part of the Cape Peninsula. Boarded by False Bay on one side and the Atlantic on the other, many millennia ago the Fish Hoek valley was under water; in more recent history, however, the seawaters receded and exposed the Cape Peninsula.

Abundant in the Fish Hoek area is Cape Granite which is a source for kaolinite, a mineral used to make ceramic wares. The area is also famed for the “Fish Hoek Man”: prehistoric skeletons and prehistoric stone tools were found in a cave now named “Peer Cave” after the amateur archaeologists who found its hidden treasures near Fish Hoek’s dunes.

The Climate in Fish Hoek

Being a coastal town, Fish Hoek enjoys mild temperature and the sea breeze from the Atlantic spares its residents from the summer heat. It’s one reason why it’s the perfect summer escape for those living in Cape Town and the surrounding areas. The refreshing “Cape Doctor” wind which comes from the south east makes the days and nights will remind you of a Mediterranean climate highlighted by the view of the nearby mountains.

Travelling around Fish Hoek for residents and visitors is simple. You can go around by car, bus, or take leisurely walks around the area. It’s small enough to travel by foot and the sea breeze makes the nature hike a welcome respite from the stress of city living.

The people who live in Fish Hoek tend to congregate around the town centre which is close to the beach, train station and Main Avenue. It has its own shopping district and Recreation Road which is about 15 minutes away by foot from the beach. There’s a new shopping centre about 4 kilometres away from the beach and residents usually drive or take the public transportation which stop right in front of the mall.

One of the recent community programs that was launched is the Shark Spotters Programme to protect citizens and visitors from possible shark attacks. Everyone is encouraged to read and remember the signage that will be updated periodically when a shark is spotted. There will be colour coded flags that Shark Spotters Programme will set up to serve as visible signs updating everyone on the condition of the waters.

Events in Fish Hoek

Fish Hoek being a vibrant community is never without some event happening. Here are just a few of the fabulous activities scheduled during the year:

The 7th eMzantsi Carnival

Slated for December 3, 2011, this annual event is a joint effort of Fish Hoek with Ocean View and Masiphumelele. It’s a parade, theatrical show, shopping, specialty foods, and a lot of fun all taking place at Kommetjie Road.

The parade is a cultural show with children actively taking part to show what the south peninsula is all about. There will be gospel singers, bands, dancers, a carnival, show, concerts, and lots of visitors.

The Reach for a Dream Foundation Charity Golf Meet

This has been a charity in Fish Hoek for the past 22 years to raise funds for children with life-threatening diseases like cancer, organ failure, and blood disorders, among many other conditions. The funds raised is used to help achieve the dreams of the children and to ease their pain from medication, treatment, rehabilitation.

It’s a golf day with 18 holes being sold for sponsorship with a dinner/dance after. There are raffles, give-aways, auction, and a golf tournament. This event usually takes place in May.

The Spring Splash

It is summer time and Spring Splash is Fish Hoek’s way of bidding winter goodbye. It’s a group swim for fun. Entrance is free and there is no schedule or program. It’s just a fun day for all. This event is held in September.