Where the name Struisbaai originated nobody knows, although theories abound. A seemingly obvious explanation would be that bay was combined with struisvogel, the Dutch word for ostrich, but since these huge birds were only lately introduced to the area this is highly unlikely. Another theory is that since struisvogel stands for big bird, why not have struisbaai to mean big bay. Unfortunately struis in Dutch means not big but well-built, which can hardly be applied to a body of water. The most acceptable origin of the debated Struis- would therefore be that it is a derivative of stroois, alluding to the reed huts of the early fishermen who camped there.
But whatever, Struisbaai is justifiably proud of the Plaat, 14 kilometers of uninterrupted sand. This is the longest such beach in the Southern Hemisphere.
Fishing is the main occupation of many residents and the pretty little harbour, built in 1969, is nearly always a hive of activity.
Many of the restored cottages here are declared national monuments and offer quaint subjects for the leisure photographer.
© Robert I. Sadler, 2002
© Robert I. Sadler, 2002
© Robert I. Sadler, 2002
© Robert I. Sadler, 2002