Situated in the pristine Berg River estuary, the precinct is bordered by the banks of the river, the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding cultivated farmlands. The unique scenic natural environment is celebrated as a bird-watching mecca due to huge flocks of flamingos feeding in the river estuary and pelicans sunning themselves on the surrounding islands. Almost indistinguishable from Velddrif, Laaiplek lies on the west side of the town closest to the sea, its name derived from its function : 'A place where one can offload the catch of the day on the pier'. The heart of Laaiplek lies on the Berg River, it's pier a hive of activity. 
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The quayside is a colourful collection of fishing vessels, most of them old-fashioned, brightly painted wooden boats. Laaiplek's harbour was the site of the first fishing factory. Most of the fish caught here are Sardines or Haarders, which are then salted and hung out to dry - ride down Bokkoms Laan in Velddrif to see evidence of the fish biltong hung on racks.

Laaiplek has grown into more than just a Harbour. Whilst Velddrif used to be 2km up the road, the two have merged and feel like one and the same.