The Great White House promises to inspire and enhance your appreciation of the area's remarkable marine and natural environment.
Other than a restaurant, accommodation and curio shop, featured exhibits at the Great White House include the skeletons of whales and dolphins, and artefacts salvaged from the ill-fated HMS Birkenhead wreck.
The massive skeleton of a female southern right whale, affectionately known as Suzi, is suspended above the dining area, which provides a striking display alongside other whale and dolphin skeleton exhibits.
Suzi's journey to her resting place began in 2005 when she washed ashore at Pearly Beach, likely after a collision with a ship. Restoring and preserving Suzi's 14-metre, 1.5-ton skeleton was a seven-year project and she was officially unveiled as a permanent exhibition in 2013. Life-size replicas of her ear, eye, and heart, along with baleen plates, are incorporated into the display.
Suzi and her companions now remind us of our responsibility to protect the marine environment.
The HMS Birkenhead was wrecked at Danger Point near Gansbaai on 26 February 1852 while transporting troops to Algoa Bay. Of the estimated 643 people on board, only 193 survived. The soldiers’ chivalry during the disaster led to the unofficial “women and children first” protocol.
The Great White House houses a collection of artefacts from the archaeological and salvage excavation that happened between 1986 and 1988. These items were recovered in a search for a supposed treasure of 250,000 pounds in gold and silver coins, intended as military pay for the troops. The treasure was never found.
The Great White House features a welcoming restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also serves as a coffee shop, bar and function facility.
Its open layout and lofty, fragrant thatched roof create a spacious and inviting atmosphere. The main dining room inside has a large fireplace that provides warmth, while the sheltered outdoor seating area offers a peaceful space with a children’s play area.
The à la carte menu presents a variety of dishes that combine innovative flavours with locally sourced ingredients, including hand-foraged kelp, red laver, and other seaweed varieties, delivering a distinct culinary experience.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully curated selection, showcasing exceptional wines from local vineyards and renowned South African regions. Whether you are a connoisseur or simply seeking a perfect pairing, there is something to suit every palate.
Great White House brings years of experience in catering, specialising in mouth-watering platters that can be pre-ordered up to three days before your event.
Whether for a gathering, celebration, or corporate function, the team’s expertly crafted platters will impress your guests. Orders can be conveniently collected from the kitchen at a prearranged time, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Contact Great White House for more information about the menu and catering services.
The Great White House’s Southern Right Bar is adjacent to the restaurant, offering a cosy seating area perfect for making new friends and sharing exciting stories of the day.
It features an exceptional selection of local and international liquors, including wine, craft beer, and gin sourced from Overberg wine estates, microbreweries, and distilleries.
The Great White House is ideal for private functions and events, accommodating up to 40 guests. With its inviting atmosphere, high thatched roof, and exceptional service, the venue offers a memorable backdrop for any special occasion.
Whether you are organising an intimate gathering, a celebratory occasion, or a business event, the restaurant provides a versatile and elegant setting.
Contact the Great White House for enquiries about private functions and upcoming events.
The Great White House’s accommodation includes three charming cottages, all within walking distance of Kleinbaai Harbour.
The convenient location allows easy access to local attractions, including boat trips and marine adventures, making it an ideal base for those visiting the area. With a range of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, the cottages ensure a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Cottage 2 is an open-plan cottage with a kitchenette equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave and hot beverage station.
There is a King-size bed and two single beds.
The bathroom has a shower, basin and toilet.
Cottage 3 is an open-plan cottage with a kitchenette equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave and hot beverage station.
There is a King-size bed and two single beds.
The bathroom has a shower, basin and toilet.
Cottage 4 is an open-plan cottage with a kitchenette equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave and hot beverage station.
There are four single beds.
The bathroom has a shower, basin and toilet.
Adults
Children
The Great White House features a children’s play area and a dog-friendly section in the outdoor courtyard, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests.
This thoughtful addition enhances the experience for diners at the restaurant and those staying at the cottages, providing a comfortable and enjoyable setting for everyone.
Great White House has a curio shop with a wide selection of stock that includes everything from clothing and books to local art and photography equipment.
Stock Examples:
Great White House is close to award-winning activities and can arrange marine excursions and visits to the nearby African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary.
Award-winning Marine Dynamics offers shark cage diving, whale watching and Marine Big 5 tours on luxury boats with an onboard marine biologist.
The world-class rehabilitation centre for seabirds is open daily with free entrance and amenities including a coffee shop and gift shop.
Contact the Great White House for more information about marine excursions and visits to the penguin sanctuary.
“It was an absolute pleasure enjoying a meal with my parents and nephew at the Great White House. The atmosphere is enjoyable if you want a relaxed yet sophisticated experience. The food is top-notch and flavourful. We sat inside close to the fireplace on a cold morning and it was exceptionally cosy.” Wihan van der Walt
“The Great White House is a complete experience. Walking in, you can see the place is set out to make our oceans safer for our fish. You can dispose of your fishing line as you enter. The food is aesthetically pleasing and affordable. The cappuccino was made to perfection. Be sure to roam around their gift shop. My husband and I bought some nice sunglasses.” Bernadette Bredenkamp
“We loved the accommodation at the Great White House. It is close to the ocean.” Gerard
“I loved the Great White House! The food was amazing and the atmosphere was relaxing. There's lots to see and more to do than I initially thought. History in one corner and a whale's skeleton hanging from the ceiling with others. I recommend The Great White House for an authentic ocean experience.” Rellas Killian
“An exceptional offering. The Great White House serves excellent food at very reasonable prices. The staff are friendly.” Jeff Rossouw
“We slept in a cottage at the Great White House. It was within walking distance of the restaurant. The cottage was nice, clean and comfortable.” Choub
“I was there for our year-end function and the food was great! Full portions with magical flavours. Service is quick and efficient. I shall return to the Great White House for a second helping.” Ian Rossouw
“I had my 32-anniversary dinner at the Great White House and asked for a special table. I got more than I expected. Thank you for the romantic experience you gave us, the food was fantastic, and our waiter gave us excellent service. Will be back every year.” Adelino De Abreu
“We enjoyed a great meal with excellent food. I can recommend The Great White House!” Sarita Oosthuizen
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Attention all retirees and senior citizens! The fire is burning!!'
To all our valued customers,
Please note that we will be closed on 25 December 2024 and 1 January 2025 to celebrate the holidays.
Book Your Table Early!
Booking is essential to avoid disappointment.
Hours of Operation:
Special School Holiday Hours:
During school holidays, we will be open daily (including Tuesdays) from 08h00 - 22h00. Closing time could be delayed subject to change, but the kitchen will close at 21h00.
Thank you, and we look forward to welcoming you soon!
