Page 65 - Bulletin 17 2013

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The gale force south-easters and driven sand remained a problem for the railway and the

town, and around 1930 the famous sand-dunes that had built up between HWM and the
railway, behind brush-wood barriers established by the SAR & H, were removed and

replaced by a gravel wasteland. (Figs. 1.72 & 1.73.)

Inevitably, given its safe beach, warm water, and long hours of sunshine, in 1935 a local
resident, perhaps inspired by what had been achieved on a similar sandy ‘wasteland’ at

Muizenberg, presented ambitious plans for foreshore development in the corner area

between the second subway on Jager Walk and the level crossing. These comprised a
large double-level pavilion with sundeck and restaurant on the first level and

entertainment area on the upper level. 200 cubicles were to be provided at beach level. A

tidal pool was included, as well as a promenade behind two parallel walls designed to
trap wind-blown sand. The gap between them would be flushed by water drawn from a

tank at each end of the upper level of the pavilion. North of the level crossing and behind
the promenade large car parks would be laid out. The estimated cost of £30,000 was

beyond the VMB’s financial capabilities and the scheme never materialised. So Fish
Hoek’s public recreational amenities up to 1939 remained modest. In 1940 donkey rides

on the beach were provided by the Ayres family in Second Avenue. The donkeys were

named Spitfire, Hurricane, and Meteor (their foal).

The Cape Argus, 15 December, 1939.

The chief attraction at Fish Hoek is its safe bathing facilities and its fine stretch of
beach. The popular bathing area at the top end of the beach is well protected from the
south-easter, and it is possible to swim out a long way in perfect safety.
On the way towards Sunny Cove almost flush against the incoming sea there is a
concrete pathway with benches and a special concrete structure for the convenience of
men bathers. From here it is possible to enter the sea from the rocks.
Fish Hoek is a popular seaside resort for families, not only on account of its safe
bathing, but also on account of its fame as a health resort. Illness is almost unknown
among the children of Fish Hoek.
There are two hotels and large number of private boarding-houses. Up-country
visitors like Fish Hoek because there is always something to do besides bathing. It is
particularly popular with Rhodesians in February and March.