Coffee Bay, Seaside village on the Wild Coast, South Africa.
Coffee Bay is a coastal town on South Africa's Wild Coast with sandy beaches framed by steep cliffs and traditional Xhosa settlements tucked into the surrounding hills. The village spreads along the shore with simple buildings and structures that blend into this hilly landscape.
The name came about in 1893 when a ship lost its cargo of coffee beans near the shore, an accident that gave the place its name. Though the coffee is long gone, the name remains a reminder of that unexpected moment.
The town is shaped by Xhosa people whose language fills daily life and whose traditions shape the settlements scattered across the hills. Visitors can feel this presence in how people use the space and how community life sets the rhythm here.
The town is reached by tarred road from Mthatha, about 80 kilometers away, where basic shops near the entrance provide everyday items. Accommodation is simple and the village offers essentials for day visitors and overnight stays.
The Mpako River has carved a striking opening through an offshore rock formation, known as Hole in the Wall. This natural feature attracts hikers who want to explore the rock formation from both water and land.
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