Paper Nautilus Washing Up in Struisbaai

If you’re in Struisbaai, keep your eyes on the beach sand. Over the last few weeks, something truly special has been washing up along the shoreline: the Paper Nautilus.

Despite the name, it’s not actually a nautilus at all. It belongs to an open-ocean octopus called an Argonaut, and the delicate “shell” is an egg case made by the female to protect her eggs and help her float through deep waters. And now, thanks to rough seas, strong winds, and shifting currents, these paper-thin ocean treasures are ending up right here on local beaches.

When are you most likely to spot one?

April to August is peak season, especially after stormy weather, and early mornings are best if you want to see one before the tide or birds arrive. 

A huge thanks to Simone Swart from Harcourts Cape Agulhas for inspiring us with her post.

If you find one, take a photo, admire it gently, and let it be.

Do you have a special Struisbaai or L'Agulhas story, memory or photo to share? Email us at info@xplorio.com and help keep our town’s stories alive.