St James

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Site Guide >> Western Cape >> St James

This site is located directly above the little hamlet of St James, tightly wedged between Muizenberg and Fish Hoek. It is a rough, seldom-used site, perched on the edge of a very steep hill and requires a short but hard vertical hike.

Requirements

  • SANParks Activity Permit
  • SACAA Sport licence
  • Valid SAHPA membership (Foreign pilots are required to have a Foreign Membership)

Geography

  • GPS: +- S34o06.815’ E18o27.464’
  • Altitude: 280m ASL
  • Airspace ceiling: 1200m ASL
St James is wedged between Muizenberg and Fish Hoek.
Satellite image showing St James wedged between Muizenberg and Fish Hoek.

Weather

  • Mild South (S) to South-East (SE)
  • The South-Easter backs up against the mountain, slowing the lower layers of wind. It is easy to underestimate the wind speed.

Launch

There are two launches, depending on the wind direction:

  • the South launch
  • The South-East launch

Landing

There is a narrow grass strip next to St James beach. Landing is heavily congested in summer, Muizenberg beach may be a better option.

The closest landing is the small grassy field next to St James beach. Be mindful of high-voltage overhead railway cables right next to this field.

Cautionary notes

  • Be mindful of the high-voltage cables for the railway.

Directions

Park near the Sharkspotters hut overlooking Muizenberg. Hike up Bailey’s Kloof, veer left at the top (SE launch here on ledge), continue on path till in front of the first small clump of trees (S launch).

Caretaker

  • The Glen Paragliding Club
  • CAHGC
  • SANParks

IMPORTANT: The SAHPA Site Guide is not a substitute for a detailed site briefing from an instructor or experienced local pilot. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information contained herein, pilots are reminded that the SAHPA Site Guide is based on a volunteer effort to make information freely available to the community. Pilots are still required to use their discretion and common sense.

Many of the sites described in the SAHPA Site Guide are privately owned. The landowner reserves the right to limit access to the site.

The Bay