The Hostelz.com Review
Coffee Shack is situated in the small village of Coffee Bay, with the beach right behind the camping section. Right from arrival, it is clear why Coffee Shack has a reputation as one of the best hostels in South Africa. The friendly staff look out for new arrivals and come out to meet them. A tour of the hostel follows, ending up in the bar, with a free welcome drink.
The hostel can accommodate your wishes whether you want a calm, relaxing stay or a more lively one. Some rooms are available across the river, away from the main activity of the hostel, and allow for chilling out. Other rooms are in the main house, and there is a camping area for those with tents.
Inside the main building there is a sitting/information area next to the reception, with information booklets on activities in the area. There is also a noticeboard in the corridor with what's planned for the next day, with lists to sign up to join in. There is also a computer for internet access.
The hostel organises plenty of activities, many of them free of charge, such as surfing lessons on the nearby beach with surf boards and wetsuits provided. While you relax on the beach after surfing, the staff make toasties on the beach for lunch. Hikes to the nearby 'Easi Falls' and 'hole in the wall' are also arranged every couple of days, and sunset drinks on the nearby hills happen most evenings.
Food is served throughout the day, with the evening meal being served to everyone at one time, at the outdoor seating area, enhancing the communal atmosphere. Late meals can be arranged though.
The hostel has a lively bar, with a pool table which is the centre of most evenings events. The bar's walls and ceilings are covered with messages and signatures from previous travellers. It's easy to get talking to fellow backpackers during the killer pool games each night - but be careful while drinking as "Buffalo Rules" apply: no drinking with the right hand or the forfeit is downing your drink in one! It's hard not to have a great time in this bar! For a calmer evening, a fire is kept going in the centre of a stone circular area, great for chatting around.
The only problem with this hostel is that you may not want to leave!
The hostel can accommodate your wishes whether you want a calm, relaxing stay or a more lively one. Some rooms are available across the river, away from the main activity of the hostel, and allow for chilling out. Other rooms are in the main house, and there is a camping area for those with tents.
Inside the main building there is a sitting/information area next to the reception, with information booklets on activities in the area. There is also a noticeboard in the corridor with what's planned for the next day, with lists to sign up to join in. There is also a computer for internet access.
The hostel organises plenty of activities, many of them free of charge, such as surfing lessons on the nearby beach with surf boards and wetsuits provided. While you relax on the beach after surfing, the staff make toasties on the beach for lunch. Hikes to the nearby 'Easi Falls' and 'hole in the wall' are also arranged every couple of days, and sunset drinks on the nearby hills happen most evenings.
Food is served throughout the day, with the evening meal being served to everyone at one time, at the outdoor seating area, enhancing the communal atmosphere. Late meals can be arranged though.
The hostel has a lively bar, with a pool table which is the centre of most evenings events. The bar's walls and ceilings are covered with messages and signatures from previous travellers. It's easy to get talking to fellow backpackers during the killer pool games each night - but be careful while drinking as "Buffalo Rules" apply: no drinking with the right hand or the forfeit is downing your drink in one! It's hard not to have a great time in this bar! For a calmer evening, a fire is kept going in the centre of a stone circular area, great for chatting around.
The only problem with this hostel is that you may not want to leave!
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
December 2004
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I can't believe it has taken me this long to write how great a time I had there.
I was at coffee shack around two years ago and I still can't stop thinking about it, I miss Nomanlah making me a drink with her great big smile, I miss sundowners, I miss waking up to the sound of drums, I miss that feeling of being completely safe/care free and totally happy. — Gracie, Aussie gal with tattoo leg (2007-01-13) Coffee shack was the best backpackers I stayed in South Africa. The staff were friendly and chilled, the situation was stunning, people met were great, the food was excellent (at a backpackers!) and cheap...and there is a free meal every sunday!
Lived the same old story came for two nights, stayed 4...met people there who had stayed two months.
Definitely recommended, would much rather stay in a place like this than almost any luxury hotel. — Almost overdosed on the Caffeine... (2006-02-09) I stayed in Coffee Bay about three years ago and its the one place in South Africa which stands out in my memories the most!! The only regret I have is that I didn't run the gauntlet, the all-day drinking game, which would humble any hardened drinker!! Thanks to Dave for giving me a lift to East London where I stayed in his brother's hostel, you're a geezer and a half! I will definitely return one day, hopefully sooner. — Graham (2005-05-09) Without sounding corny, it is a piece of heaven on earth! Not so many hostels offer a staff that at times are nicer and more fun than the guests. Hi to Dawn, Belinda, Topsi, Yoni, Numandla and of course Ncumisa... miss you! — Yossi (2005-04-10) Fantastic place, with fantastic people. Hi to Dave, Belinda, Gemma, and Genavive. I had the best time. I will go back see you soon. — Martin (2005-01-17) The atmosphere is unbelievable in this small holding. Everybody's super friendly, it doesn't matter who you are or where you are from. I met lots of interesting people. The downside to this place: too little space. :) I definitely want another visit in the future, for longer. — Board Riders Underground (2004-12-30) This is South Africa's gem. I have travelled the South African backpackers route extensively and I promise you cannot do better. It is a milestone in one's life! — Charles (2004-07-30) Best place on the planet. You could spend a lifetime there. — Saul (2004-07-12) It was the most fun I have ever had!!! The hospitality was fantastic. Grrreat bar! Grrreat parties! Grrreat people! We were 17 guys altogether and yeah, unfortunately we will be going back! — Leon (2004-02-16) Excellent food, astonishing hikes, views and sunsets, cool huts, and last but not least, very nice people!! — Kate (2003-11-03) After returning home from South Africa, we can say that the Coffee Shack was the best place we have been to! — Maike (2003-11-02) This is a great backpackers spot, very well organised and great staff. Veggies are well catered for and if you like to chill out - this is the place for you! — Alan (2003-10-06) Came to Coffee Bay with wife and 2 kids. Doubted a second to spend the night at the Coffee Shack ... but it became the best memory of our South Africa holiday!! Great atmosphere, super cooking, excellent place!! — Edwin (Holland) (2003-09-30) I worked there 2 years ago as the barman -- greatest time I ever had. Great atmosphere, stunning surroundings. Still thinking about it now and would love to go back... — Kai (2003-09-08) I intended to stay for 2 nights, but stayed for 8 - this happens to a lot of people Amazing people, beautiful surroundings, when you leave it feels like you're leaving your family!!! — Leigh Ivens (2003-08-04)