Snorkel in still turquoise waters, surf some perfect barrels or simply soak up the sun in a stunning setting at one of these breathtaking beaches in Cape Town and surrounds.
Hugged in a peninsula, Cape Town showcases a stunning coastline with 72 magnificent beaches spanning from the West Coast to False Bay. These beaches feature sparkling aquamarine waters set against a natural backdrop of rugged mountains and cliffs. While the water may not always be warm, it doesn’t deter crowds from gathering to enjoy a day basking in the sun, having a leisurely picnic, or taking a refreshing dip. The Cape offers excellent surfing, snorkelling, paddle-boarding opportunities, and stunning settings to make the most of a summer day. Here is a selection of our favourites, as loved by locals.
Atlantic Seaboard Beaches
Known as Cape Town’s ‘Riviera,’ the Atlantic Seaboard spans from the V&A Waterfront on the north shore of Table Mountain, tracing the western edge of the Cape Peninsula to Hout Bay, and is sandwiched between the glistening Atlantic Ocean and the majestic slopes of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles. Unforgettable sunsets along this part of the peninsula have turned Cape Town’s sundowners into a tradition, and despite the chilliness, the sea provides a truly refreshing dip on a typical hot day.
Llandudno Beach
Between Camps Bay and Hout Bay, the Blue Flag Llandudno Beach is a true Cape Town gem. Surrounded by huge granite boulders that provide seclusion and a shield from most winds, the beach is a haven for various activities, including sunbathing, picnics, sundowners, surfing, bodyboarding, beach games, and dog walking. While surfers typically don wetsuits, the icy water doesn’t deter those brave enough to take a refreshing swim.
Clifton 2nd Beach
While you can’t go wrong with any of the Clifton beaches, 2nd Beach is a preferred option for those who want a less crowded experience than at 4th, but with the beautiful scenes and crisp water to match. Come early to secure a lovely spot and an umbrella for a morning under the sun, or opt for an afternoon out and bring a towel, a snack, and something to drink and soak up the sunset from the white sand shore. Those with pups might be interested in the fact that the beach right next door, 1st, is dog-friendly for off-lead pooches.
Oudekraal Beach
Blink and you’ll miss it! Oudekraal Beach is a stunning cove between Llandudno and Bakoven and is a protected part of Table Mountain National Park. Unlike more well-known beaches, this small spot is tucked away and surrounded by large boulders that not only provide a sense of seclusion but also create a safe swimming area. Oudekraal also features braai facilities and a grassy area, while Scuba divers are drawn to the area to explore Justin’s Caves, a collection of large boulders home to a captivating variety of sea life.
Barley Beach
Barley Beach is a lesser-known, tranquil hidden gem between Camps Bay and Bakoven. Surrounded by high reeds and dotted with huge boulders, this pup-friendly hideaway is perfect for a quick dip in still waters, or an all-day relaxation sesh with a good book and snacks. During Cape Town summers the beach fills up quickly, so be sure to get there early to snag a good spot.
Bakoven Beach
No beach session in Cape Town is complete without a visit to Bakoven. Iconic in so many ways, it’s no surprise this gorgeous cove is a favourite among locals in any season. Surrounded by Cape Cod-style beach homes and beautiful palms, Bakoven Beach is like stepping into a slice of paradise. The crashing waves lick the large boulders, while pockets of ice blue water and lazing birds set the scene for a stunner of a day – or a sunset session.
Saunders Rocky Beach
Perhaps one of the most popular spots in Cape Town for a dip and a chill, Saunders Rocky Beach is a small cove below the seaside suburb of Bantry Bay. Loved by locals for its tidal pool and incredible sunsets, a rocky outcrop of boulders makes for the perfect stage to sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning scenes with a snack after an icy, refreshing dip in the sea.
False Bay Beaches
The False Bay shoreline in Cape Town offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling Atlantic coastline. However, during peak season, these family-friendly beaches can get quite crowded, attracting numerous surfers to the waters. Locals prefer these beaches for their warmer temperatures compared to the Atlantic ones (3-4 degrees higher), making them ideal for swimming. Lifeguards are stationed at most of these beaches, ensuring safety and the shallow waters allow for secure swimming and paddling experiences.
Boulders Beach
Located just beyond Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach is known for its resident African Penguin population, which has chosen this beach as their habitat. While this is a paid-entry beach, it stands out as one of Cape Town’s top wind-protected swimming destinations. A boardwalk extends beyond the primary beach, leading visitors to the penguin-inhabited area, although the curious cuties often make spontaneous visits around the boulders.
Windmill Beach
When it comes to gorgeous coves with sparkling warm water, crystal blue pockets, flourishing kelp forests and the occasional penguin out for a dip, you can’t beat Windmill Beach. This small yet popular spot just off the Simon’s Town coastline is a beautiful location for lazy summer days spent on the sand, climbing boulders for that perfect photo, and snorkelling among the amazing array of friendly fish and stingrays.
Smitswinkel Bay
On the road from Kalk Bay toward Cape Point, this little cove is easily missable – so keep an eye out and pack your walking shoes, because it’s a long hike down to the beach. The walk will be worth it though. No cell service or noise, just spectacular scenery and a sense of calm ideal for cool dips, relaxed lounging and diving down to one of the five wrecks in the bay, filled with colourful marine life.
Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach holds a special place as the go-to spot for every surfer and stands out as one of Cape Town’s most famous places. Recognised for its vibrant beach huts that often feature on Cape Town’s postcards, this extensive shoreline can become quite lively in peak season. However, the waves are relatively gentle, and the presence of additional amenities, such as miniature golf courses and water slides, ensures that the beach never feels overly crowded.
St James Beach
Between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, St James Beach is a winner in every way. Rainbow-coloured changing room houses dot the shoreline, with a lovely tidal pool alongside the sea for a refreshing dip. A small sliver of white sand beach is the perfect place to pop down a towel and relax in the sun after a dive in the waves.
Scarborough Beach
This long stretch of white-sand beach between Cape Point and Simon’s Town is ideal for those seeking a spot to camp out all day long, with dogs in tow! The water is perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkelling and body-boarding, while the fact that it’s lesser-known and mostly used by the locals, makes it a wonderfully laid-back choice for a day out in the summer sun.
Dalebrook Tidal Pool
Located in the quirky seaside village of Kalk Bay, Dalebrook Tidal Pool is a much-loved spot due to its spectacular location, crystal clear water and dog-friendly draw. Part sandy beach and part tidal pool, we recommend you go early and watch the sun rising above the ocean – the ideal time of day for enjoying a morning coffee and croissant with a view.
Table Bay Beaches
About 20 km north of Cape Town, the Table Bay coastline offers a haven for surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kite flying, swimming, and paddle skiing enthusiasts. It’s essential to note the significant influence of the wind factor, especially considering the excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing on Table Bay beaches. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, taking a refreshing dip, or perfecting your tan, the displays of kitesurfers are sure to provide entertaining moments along the shoreline.
Big Bay Beach
Situated in Bloubergstrand, a northern suburb of Cape Town, Big Bay Beach is one of two beaches in the area. This family-friendly beach boasts long, flat sands, perfect for sunbathing, leisurely strolls, and kite flying. While the area can be quite windy, it’s best enjoyed on calm days. A rocky point separates Big Bay Beach from the quieter Little Bay (or Small Bay) Beach, providing a more tranquil alternative – both of which offer a stunning view of Table Mountain and Robben Island across the ocean.
Dolphin Beach
Just 20 minutes from the city centre and conveniently located on the route to the Cape West Coast, Dolphin Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and is a hotspot for wind and kite surfing enthusiasts. For those wanting to stretch their legs, a long and leisurely stroll along the beach awaits. Alternatively, simply relax and observe the lively activities in the surf. Dolphin Beach offers a perfect blend of recreation and relaxation for a memorable day out.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach, an upscale residential area, is beautifully centred around its gorgeous beach – a favoured destination for surfing, swimming, and kitesurfing. The beach offers breathtaking views encompassing Table Mountain and Robben Island, and beyond its water activities, Sunset Beach is renowned for seasonal whale spotting. The nearby Table Bay Nature Reserve boasts wetlands inhabited by pelicans, further enhancing the area’s appeal.
Melkbosstrand Beach
Melkbosstrand Beach is situated on the shores of the West Coast village of Melkbos, and is a serene beach loved for its peaceful ambience. Stretching approximately 7 kilometres, it features a long, flat, sandy coastline that is perfect for walking, running, swimming, and various other water activities. Melkbosstrand Beach offers a tranquil escape with its expansive and versatile shoreline, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and relax all day long.
Kogelberg Nature Reserve Beaches
Situated on the northeastern corner of False Bay, the Kogelberg Coast stands as the farthest coastal area from the City of Cape Town. This region features beaches that cater to a variety of water activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing. Stretching from Strand Beach to Kogel Bay, the Kogelberg Coast marks the endpoint of the Cape Town Beaches region as you head south towards Pringle Bay.
Bikini Beach
Bikini Beach, a Blue Flag beach in the coastal town of Gordon’s Bay, is a sought-after summer destination due to its sheltered location, ensuring a calm environment even on windy days. With warm, clear, and tranquil waters, Bikini Beach is not only an excellent spot for swimming but is also beloved by surfers. Despite its smaller size and limited parking, the beach is a worthwhile destination, with various restaurants and shops just a short walk away.
Dappat se Gat
Although a little further out of Cape Town than the others, this gorgeous cove is an incredible location for lovers of big waves, warm water, and complete cover from the nasty South Easter wind. Tucked away just below the road to Betty’s Bay from Rooi Els, Dappat se Gat is surrounded by large caves and boulders, where the wild ocean makes for an invigorating swimming, body-boarding and surfing experience.
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