Parked in the middle of nowhere South Africa you will find the ultimate story of sex sells – and it has nothing to do with sex itself. Meet Ronnies Sex Shop, a dive bar with a unique story.
Where it’s At
Ronnies Sex Shop is located along the dusty and dry Route 62 – 290 kilometers from Cape Town and miles from anything else. We were tipped off about this odd roadside fixture by a couple we met on our luxury Rovos Rail trip. It peaked our curiosity enough to make a detour on our 3 Day Garden Route tour.
False Start
Originally established as a farm stall, it failed miserably. Not to be defeated, Ronnie decided to open a bar instead.“Worst case I would have a place to drink” a grey-bearded at Ronnie laughed. He had just pulled up with a large box of T-shirts fresh from the printer in Mossel Bay. Ronnie went on to explain how the place never really got off the ground until, as a joke, his friends painted the word “sex next to his sign. With that kind act of vandalism, Ronnies Sex Shop was born.
Bust to Boom
“We drank a lot in those days” Ronnie said very matter-of-factly. He never really got the fascination but took it in and enjoyed the ride. Suddenly Ronnies Sex Shop became a novelty stop and more. Although there was nothing sex-related at Ronnies Sex Shop women began leaving undergarments (as they do) which now hang from the dank bar rafters. It reminded me of a kitschy dive bar on Bourbon Street except there is absolutely nothing else around.
Sex Sells
Clearly. Here we were sitting in the middle of nowhere having a beer with a guy from Delta BC, a suburb of my home of Vancouver. Small world or sex sells? There is not much to Ronnies Sex Shop other than a place to grab a drink and take a picture. Oh, and buy a t-shirt.
As we left a tour bus pulled up and a group of Germans hopped off, cameras in tow. All because of 3 letters painted in red. This made me laugh but I guess I had just done the same thing. I guess Ronnies Sex Shop is just one of those odd places that you hear about and have to see for yourself.
Ronnies Sex Shop Good to Know
Hours: I’m pretty sure they close when they feel like it.
Don’t miss: Say hi to Ronnie!
Located: See map
What say you?
Have thoughts on Ronnies Sex Shop?
Let’s hear it!
For more reviews from South Africa and beyond see HERE.
Excellent post. I want to thank you for this informative, I really appreciate sharing this great post. Thanks for sharing this…
Was there any doubt that se sells! 😉
Intersting story and discovery Shaun!