7 South African harbours that resemble Portugal’s coastline

Portugal’s coast boasts rugged cliffs, cobbled quays, and sun-bleached fishing villages—but you don’t need to travel to Europe to enjoy a similar atmosphere.

Thanks to its deep maritime roots and colonial heritage, South Africa offers several harbours that mirror the charm of the Algarve or Lisbon’s waterfront. Here are seven South African harbours that capture the look and feel of Portugal’s iconic coast…

1. Mossel Bay Harbour, Garden Route, South Africa

Mossel Bay, one of South Africa’s oldest ports, showcases its rich history much like many Portuguese towns. Its low-rise waterfront, calm blue waters, and docked sailing vessels create a strong Iberian atmosphere. That’s no accident—Bartolomeu Dias first arrived here in 1488.

2. Kalk Bay Harbour, Cape Town, South Africa

With its pastel buildings, fishing boats bobbing in the bay, and a laid-back atmosphere, Kalk Bay could easily be mistaken for a seaside town in Portugal. The working harbour is compact and picturesque, surrounded by seafood restaurants and art galleries. The rocky coastline and lighthouses seal the resemblance.

3. Hout Bay, Western Cape

Hout Bay’s dramatic mountain backdrop mirrors the cliffs of the Portuguese coast. The harbour buzzes with fishing activity, and old trawlers line the piers like they’ve been there forever. Throw in the scent of grilled fish, a salty breeze, and a glass of local white wine, and you’re practically in Setúbal.

4. Gordon’s Bay Old Harbour

Tucked under the Hottentots Holland mountains, Gordon’s Bay feels like a sleepy Mediterranean village. The old harbour is small, intimate, and ringed with whitewashed homes and cafés. The slow rhythm and old-world charm scream coastal Portugal.

5. Simon’s Town Harbour

A naval base with a colonial flavour, Simon’s Town looks like Cascais with its mix of maritime order and old-timey charm. Walk along the waterfront and you’ll find tidy piers, historic buildings, and a sense of tradition that could rival any Portuguese fishing town.

6. Port St. Francis, Eastern Cape, South Africa

This private harbour in the seaside village of St. Francis Bay looks like a European postcard. White homes with thatched roofs sit neatly around a quiet marina. It feels more Algarve than Africa, with yachts moored in still water and narrow canals lined with bougainvillea.

7. Knysna Waterfront and Lagoon

While not a traditional harbour, the Knysna Lagoon’s quayside has a distinctly European flair. The weathered boardwalks, docked leisure boats, and briny air echo parts of southern Portugal. Add in the seafood eateries and mountain views, and it’s a dead ringer for spots like Lagos or Tavira.