5 Best Hotels in Wilderness, The Garden Route and the Little Karoo

This boutique hotel offers stupendous views of the seemingly endless beach from floor-to-ceiling windows and private verandas. The decor is a distinct blend of beach house and designer chic, with shades of turquoise, cream, and blue accented by glass and chrome. Open baths allow you to enjoy a soak in the tub with a sea view (louvered shutters can be closed for privacy, if you prefer).

Along a lovely, meandering stretch of river, this camp is divided into northern and southern sections that include a variety of accommodations ranging from log cabins to forest huts. The southern half has several family-friendly cottages that sleep up to six, as well as log cabins and forest huts that sleep up to four, and plenty of campsites. The cabins are prettier than the cottages, but both are bright and pleasant. The forest huts are a bit smaller. The much smaller northern section is more secluded and has a few grassy campsites on the river and a dozen rondavels (round huts). The communal bathroom areas for the campsite are clean and more than adequate.

This tried-and-true hotel is just a short stroll from the golden beaches. Spend your time wandering in the lovely gardens, lounging beside the two swimming pools, or working up a sweat on the tennis courts or the squash court. For something a little more leisurely, treat yourself to a spa treatment. Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet, a light lunch, or an á la carte dinner at the hotel's Loerie Restaurant. 

Spectacular floral arrangements, deep-pile carpets, and voluminous drapes framing the sea-view windows add to the sense of opulence at this beachfront guesthouse. The classic style—with dramatic shades of terra-cotta, soft blues, and corals and rich, vibrant fabrics—tells you you're about to be pampered. Rooms are individually decorated and have private balconies. The beach is just a short hop from the lawns or the saltwater pool. 

Horses and cows in the field, a huge vegetable garden, and endless views over the ocean create a sense of space and abundance at this friendly hostel set high on a farm above Wilderness. Brothers Riaan and Theo Barnard, both qualified tour guides, offer excursions all over the Garden Route, as well as surfboard rentals and regular shuttles to and from Wilderness. You're welcome to use the well-equipped kitchen or barbecue, though you might want to start the day off with a big farm breakfast for R35. The hostel also offers three dormitories.