Lekkerwater Lodge

Tucked away on a private concession in the heart of De Hoop Nature Reserve, just a scenic three-hour drive from Cape Town, Lekkerwater Lodge is a luxurious yet laid-back retreat offering unrivalled ocean views, rare wildlife encounters, and immersive nature-based experiences.

Nature Immersed, Ocean Inspired

Overlooking a six-kilometre stretch of pristine white-sand beach, Lekkerwater Lodge invites you to reconnect with nature. Whether you're walking the low-tide reefs with marine experts, traversing the fynbos-covered dunes, or simply soaking in the view from your private deck, the setting is both restorative and invigorating. From July to November, the De Hoop coastline becomes one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations, with southern right whales migrating here to calve in the warm, protected waters. Dolphins, seals, and abundant seabirds often join the spectacle.

A Birding & Botanical Paradise

With over 260 bird species recorded, including endangered Cape vultures, flamingos, African fish eagles, and the striking black oystercatcher, De Hoop is a hotspot for both amateur and avid birders. The rich mosaic of wetlands, fynbos, dunes, and coastline provides habitats for a diverse array of species.

The Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest yet richest floral kingdom on Earth, dominates the landscape with its dazzling diversity of endemic plants. Nature walks reveal the intricate relationships between flora, geology, and climate in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed biome.

Where Luxury Meets Simplicity

Built on the site of what was once South Africa’s presidential retreat – sometimes referred to as the country’s ‘Camp David’ – the reimagined lodge is understated and elegant. Just seven ocean-facing suites line the shoreline, each with open-plan interiors, a soft coastal aesthetic, and expansive decks that frame the ever-changing seascape. Wooden boardwalks connect suites to the central lodge, where guests gather on sea-view terraces, around a communal dining table, or beside a plunge pool or wood-fired hot tub on the beach. Dining is interactive and seasonal, with chefs preparing fresh, local fare in an open kitchen. Meals are shared in a casual, convivial atmosphere – or privately, if preferred.

An Active Escape – Or a Peaceful One

While there is no traditional “big five” safari at De Hoop, the reserve is home to over 86 mammal species, including bontebok, Cape mountain zebra, eland, and caracal. Hiking the coastal paths and intertidal zones is central to the experience, and many of the most rewarding ecosystems are best accessed on foot. Guests should be reasonably fit and agile, as some steep paths and beach access steps are part of the daily rhythm. That said, the lodge also offers plenty of serene spaces for those who prefer to relax and simply take in the view.