Take the Plunge at the St James Polar Bear Swim – Stay at Sonnekus Boutique Hotel

Every New Year’s Day, the famous St James Polar Bear Swim brings hundreds of brave souls to the tidal pools of False Bay for a refreshing dip in the icy waters. If you’re planning to join in the fun - or simply want to experience the charm of St James - Sonnekus Boutique Hotel by Ideas Cartel is the perfect place to stay.
Why Choose Sonnekus Boutique Hotel?
Unbeatable Location
Located in the heart of St James, Sonnekus offers stunning ocean and mountain views and is just steps away from:
- The St James tidal pool and colorful beach huts
- Scenic walks to Kalk Bay and Muizenberg
- Easy access to Cape Town’s southern peninsula attractions
📍 Book your stay at Sonnekus Boutique Hotel
Boutique Luxury with a Personal Touch
Sonnekus features beautifully restored rooms with:
- King-size or queen-size beds
- Ocean or mountain views
- Free Wi-Fi, Smart TVs, minibar, and luxury bathroom amenities
Guests enjoy breakfast in the sunroom, a pet-friendly café, and curated experiences like spa treatments, beach picnics, and wine tastings.
Why Book Direct?
Booking directly on our official website gives you:
- Best rate guarantee
- Early check-in / late check-out (subject to availability)
- Exclusive packages and offers
Corporate Retreats by the Sea
Sonnekus isn’t just for leisure - it’s an inspiring venue for corporate retreats, team-building sessions, and strategy getaways. With Ideas Cartel, you can combine your stay with meetings at our other properties for a multi-location experience.
Explore Other Ideas Cartel Stays
- Old Foundry Hotel – Cape Town
Perfect for business travelers with coworking spaces, private offices, boardrooms, and a rooftop pool. - Stoep Boutique Hotel – Kalk Bay
Just minutes away, offering chic seaside charm and an intimate setting. - Little Villa – Hermanus
An elegant coastal escape, ideal for weekend getaways or family holidays.
Why St James?
This seaside village is famous for:
- The Polar Bear Swim every January
- Iconic Victorian bathing boxes
- Surfing at nearby Muizenberg Beach
- Whale watching, scenic hikes, and tidal pools
Make your next St James adventure unforgettable with a stay at Sonnekus Boutique Hotel.
📍 Check availability and book now