West Coast National Park stretches around the clear, turquoise waters of the Langebaan Lagoon on the Atlantic coast, a little over an hour north of Cape Town. The park protects a mosaic of lagoon, salt marsh, wetland and strandveld, and is best known for the wildflowers that carpet the Postberg section in the spring months, drawing visitors from across the country.

The lagoon and its islands are internationally important for birds, hosting great numbers of migratory waders along with flamingo, and the sheltered waters are popular for kayaking and watersports. Eland, bontebok, zebra and ostrich roam the coastal plain, and bird hides give close views over the marshes.

Accommodation within and around the park ranges from cottages to houseboats on the lagoon, offering a coastal stay rather than a classic bush safari. The combination of birdlife, spring flowers and tranquil water makes the park one of the most rewarding day trips and short breaks within easy reach of the city.