Danger Point Lighthouse
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Danger Point Lighthouse South Africa

3.9
·125 reviews·, South Africa

Historic Danger Point Lighthouse, a beacon since 1895, warns ships of treacherous reefs near Gansbaai. Offers stunning views and maritime history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends (Feb 22 & 23)

Limited open days for tours

CrowdMedium
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Danger Point Lighthouse

Danger Point Lighthouse South Africa

Best Time

Weekends (Feb 22 & 23)

Limited open days for tours

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Danger Point Lighthouse, a beacon since 1895, warns ships of treacherous reefs near Gansbaai. Offers stunning views and maritime history.

3.9
(125 reviews)

"Awesome to hear the sad story of the HMS Birkenhead and how dangerous our part of Africa is for travelling ships."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check Opening Times

Access can be limited; confirm opening days and hours before your visit.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing stairs and walking on coastal paths.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Lighthouse Tower

The Iconic Lighthouse Tower

Danger Point

Ascend the historic octagonal masonry tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Walker Bay.

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HMS Birkenhead Memorial

HMS Birkenhead Memorial

Near the lighthouse

Reflect on the poignant history of the HMS Birkenhead troopship, whose sinking prompted the lighthouse's creation.

Reddit+1
Blowhole Viewpoint

Blowhole Viewpoint

Coastal path

Hike to a viewpoint to witness the dramatic blowhole and waves crashing against the treacherous coastline.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Danger Point Lighthouse

Discover the history and stunning views at Danger Point Lighthouse. Built in 1895, it warns ships of treacherous reefs. Check opening times as access can be limited. Instagram+1

Understanding Danger Point's History

Learn about the tragic HMS Birkenhead shipwreck that led to the lighthouse's construction. The area's dangerous waters have a rich maritime history. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekends (Feb 22 & 23)
Why
Limited open days for tours
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Back open finally! 🥺 #pointbonitatrail #pointbonitalighthouse #marinheadlands #tiktoktravel #bayarea #hiddengems
@millie.lai
56K likes • 1M views

🎟️ Check Opening Times

Access can be limited; confirm opening days and hours before your visit. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing stairs and walking on coastal paths. Reddit

These are the most dangerous places in South Africa 😳 no.1 definitely took me by surprise! #dangerous #southafrica #property #jhbcbd #durban #pretoria #capetown #westerncape
@iam_ntombela
31.4K likes • 1.1M views
Danger point Lighthouse!🇿🇦 💡Danger Point Lighthouse is a lighthouse on the southern point of Walker Bay, near Gansbaai, in South Africa. It is a white octagonal masonry tower that has been in use since 1895!🧐 Who would you explore South Africa with?🤔✈️ 🎥: @_reelcontent 📍South Africa #capetown#thisissouthafrica #captown #visitcapetown #visitafrica #africaexplore
capetown.travel
362 likes • 14.2K views

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is very reasonably priced, especially for kids. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The panoramic vistas from the top and along the coast are incredible. Reddit+1

Danger Point Lighthouse - South Africa 34°37’49”S 19°18’08”E Bartolomeu Dias originally named Danger Point Ponte de Sao Brandao when he landed there on May 16, 1488. The name Danger Point is derived from the treacherous reefs and rocks below the water that make it very dangerous for ships to sail close to the coast. The area is also known for the many great white sharks that are found here. Mo...
deon_kriel
12 likes • 422 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check Opening Times

Access can be limited; confirm opening days and hours before your visit. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing stairs and walking on coastal paths. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is very reasonably priced, especially for kids. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The panoramic vistas from the top and along the coast are incredible. Reddit+1

☕ Refreshments Available

Enjoy coffee and snacks while taking in the scenery. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(125 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Danger Point Lighthouse for its rich maritime history, particularly the story of the HMS Birkenhead, and the breathtaking views from the tower. The affordable entry fee and the educational experience are also highlighted as major positives. Some reviewers noted that the surrounding grounds could benefit from more landscaping, but the overall experience is highly recommended.

"Awesome to hear the sad story of the HMS Birkenhead and how dangerous our part of Africa is for travelling ships. Went up 99 stairs to the light that is operaring on a daily basis to warn other ships from our treacherous shores. Little coffee shop with coffee and snacks. Really a food experience. Thank you to all who made this possible."

Hanlie Haasbroek

"Loved it. Beautiful views. Leaned a lot about the lighthouse and the different lights used. And only R20 for an adult."

Lu-Gerda de Klerk

"Very interesting for us to go inside the Danger Point Lighthouse. It was clean and well maintained. The views from the top are beautiful. The lighthouse was commissioned on 1 January 1895 after the sinking of the HMS Birkenhead Troopship on the night of 26 February 1852.
Pity there wasn't a place to enjoy some coffee and cake as the views are awesome."

Enid Son

What People Like

Fascinating maritime history
Stunning panoramic views
Affordable entry fees

What People Dislike

Grounds could be better maintained

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Danger Point Lighthouse is located near Gansbaai, approximately a 2-hour drive from Cape Town. Renting a car is the most convenient option. Follow the N2 highway east, then take the R43 towards Gansbaai. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the lighthouse. It's usually ample, especially outside of peak event days. Reddit

While possible, it's challenging. Public transport to Gansbaai is limited, and local transport to the lighthouse itself might be scarce. Consider a guided tour if you don't have a car. Instagram

The most scenic route involves taking the R43 along the coast after leaving the N2. This offers beautiful ocean views as you approach Gansbaai. Instagram

Some guesthouses in Kleinbaai and Gansbaai offer shuttle services. It's best to inquire with your accommodation provider. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees are very affordable. As of recent information, kids under 10 are free, ages 11-17 are R10, and adults are R20. InstagramReddit

The lighthouse has specific open days, often on weekends or during special events. For example, it was open on February 22 & 23, 2025, from 10:00 to 14:45. Always check for current opening schedules. InstagramReddit

Tickets are typically purchased on-site on the days the lighthouse is open. It's advisable to arrive early on open days to ensure entry. Instagram

Yes, knowledgeable guides are often available to explain the lighthouse's inner workings and history. Reddit

Operating hours are limited to specific open days. On those days, it's usually open from around 10:00 AM to 2:45 PM. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can climb the lighthouse tower for incredible views, learn about its history, walk along coastal paths to see the blowhole, and enjoy refreshments. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a great place for kids to learn about lighthouses and maritime history. The affordable entry for children makes it family-friendly. Reddit

The top of the lighthouse offers panoramic shots. Also, walk down the footpaths for dramatic photos of waves breaking against the shore. Reddit

Restroom facilities are generally available on-site for visitors. Reddit

The area includes the lighthouse tower with many stairs, and coastal footpaths. Some areas might require careful footing. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there's a small coffee shop selling refreshments, a full restaurant experience is not available directly at the lighthouse. Reddit

You can find coffee and snacks at the on-site refreshment stand. InstagramReddit

Gansbaai and Kleinbaai offer various dining options, from seafood to local eateries. Ask locals or your accommodation for recommendations. Instagram

Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas, but check for specific rules. It's a good option if you want more variety. Reddit

Many restaurants in Gansbaai will likely offer vegetarian options. Vegan options might require specific requests or checking menus in advance. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light. Midday can be harsh but still provides clear views. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant ocean views or wildlife. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in protected areas and near operational facilities. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

The lighthouse itself, the coastline with crashing waves, the blowhole, and panoramic views from the tower are all highly photogenic. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the lighthouse, allowing you to capture the spiral staircase and interior details. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Danger Point Lighthouse is a fantastic outing for families. Kids will be fascinated by the lighthouse tower and the stories of shipwrecks like the HMS Birkenhead. The affordable entry fees, especially for children, make it an accessible family activity. Climbing the stairs inside the lighthouse can be an exciting adventure for younger visitors, and the coastal walks offer opportunities to explore nature. Reddit

Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking and climbing. The on-site refreshment stand is convenient for snacks, but consider bringing your own drinks and extra snacks for longer stays. The educational aspect of the lighthouse, combined with the dramatic ocean views, makes for a memorable and engaging family experience. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Danger Point Lighthouse offers a wealth of opportunities. The iconic lighthouse structure itself is a strong subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The rugged coastline, with its dramatic waves crashing against the rocks, provides stunning natural scenery. Don't miss the blowhole viewpoint for dynamic shots of the ocean's power. Reddit

Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and the lighthouse in its setting. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant marine life or details along the coast. The interior spiral staircase of the lighthouse also makes for compelling architectural photography. Be mindful of the weather, as dramatic skies can enhance your images. Reddit

🚢 History Buffs

Danger Point Lighthouse is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history. The site is deeply connected to the tragic HMS Birkenhead shipwreck, a pivotal event in naval history. Learning about the lighthouse's construction as a direct response to such disasters provides a powerful context. Reddit+1

Explore the interpretive displays and listen to the knowledgeable guides who can share detailed accounts of the area's maritime past. Understanding the dangers of this coastline and the role the lighthouse has played in saving lives offers a profound appreciation for this historic landmark. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Maritime History of Danger Point

Danger Point earned its name from the treacherous reefs and submerged rocks that have claimed numerous ships throughout history. The most infamous incident is the sinking of the HMS Birkenhead on February 26, 1852. This troopship was carrying soldiers and their families when it struck a submerged rock. The tragedy led to the famous 'women and children first' protocol, though sadly, many lives were still lost due to the harsh conditions and lack of rescue resources. The sheer number of shipwrecks in the area underscored the urgent need for a navigational aid. InstagramReddit

The Danger Point Lighthouse was subsequently commissioned and began operating on January 1, 1895. Its white octagonal masonry tower stands as a testament to the efforts to make these waters safer for maritime travel. The lighthouse has been a crucial beacon for ships navigating the southern tip of Walker Bay, guiding them away from the perilous coastline. InstagramReddit

Visiting Danger Point offers a chance to connect with this significant maritime past. You can learn about the lighthouse's operational history, the different types of lights used over the years, and the ongoing efforts to preserve this vital piece of South African heritage. The stories of shipwrecks and rescues add a profound layer to the stunning natural beauty of the location. Reddit

Exploring the Lighthouse and Surroundings

The Danger Point Lighthouse itself is a key attraction. Visitors can often ascend the 99 steps to the lantern room, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the coastline, Walker Bay, and the vast Indian Ocean. The interior of the lighthouse showcases its historical machinery and design, providing insight into its past operations. Knowledgeable guides are frequently on hand to share fascinating details about the lighthouse's function and history. Reddit

Beyond the tower, the surrounding area offers more to explore. A popular activity is walking along the coastal footpaths that lead to viewpoints, including one famous for its blowhole. Here, you can witness the dramatic power of the ocean as waves surge and spray through natural rock formations. These paths also provide excellent vantage points for observing the rugged beauty of the coastline and the often-turbulent sea. InstagramReddit

While the lighthouse is well-maintained, some visitors suggest that further gardening and landscaping could enhance the grounds. However, the natural beauty of the rugged terrain and the historical significance of the site are undeniable draws. The presence of a small coffee shop offering refreshments adds to the visitor experience, allowing you to relax and soak in the atmosphere after your exploration. InstagramReddit

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