Sun, fun, relaxation, and even a bit of surf and turf, are some of the things you can expect when you visit some of the best beaches in Cape Town.
The Mother City is considered a holidaymakers paradise, and for good reason! Table Mountain landmarks the area, with historical & cultural sites of great importance to the history of South Africa. Inland you’ll find some of the world’s best Winelands along the wine route.
If you look a little closer you’ll most likely find some awesome wildlife parks, and one of the best aquariums in Africa! All this is not even mentioning the shopping possibilities with most of the world’s leading brands present in the V&A Waterfront.
Apart from all of this, there is probably one attraction that stands above the rest… and all you have to do to find it is head to the coast.
The beaches, of course, are what I am referring to, white sands, cliffy, warm waters, great waves, or a child ocean, the unique position that Cape Town is in, benefitting from 2 different oceans on either side & a huge variety of fauna along the coasts.
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The beaches can only be described as world-class, and provide such a variety of options, you’ll find yourself spending even more time on them!
1. Clifton Beach
One of the cozier beaches in Cape Town, Clifton is rarely overcrowded. This beach is a trendy spot, nestled in the rocks between Sea Point and Camps Bay. A rather private beach as you will need to take a walk through small passageways between private properties in order to reach it.
The stairways are well worth it though, once you reach the bottom.
Just plan to arrive early if you’re visiting on the weekend. It may not get as crowded as some of Cape Town’s other beaches, but that is more to do with the Clifton beachgoers that tend to respect their fellow beachgoers’ space, rather than quietness.
2. Noordhoek Beach
The perfect beach for a sunset horseback ride, in fact, that’s what it’s famous for.
This beach is not only long, but it is also wide, making it great for all sorts of beach sports. I personally enjoy kicking a ball about with some friends, as it’s so quiet.
You should be able to find plenty of space to organize a game of beach football/rugby/volleyball. Just be wary of wandering baboons in the mountains nearby.
If you head on down to Kommetjie, you’ll also find Long Beach, which is one of the Cape’s surfing hotspots!
3. Muizenberg Beach
Probably the most famous of all Cape Town beaches, even if you may have never heard the name before. The colorful beach houses are a Capetonian landmark that you’ve probably come across somewhere. The False Bay waters are a lot warmer than the colder beaches on the western side of the Cape.
Home to Surfer’s Corner, Muizenberg is also a great place for beginner surfers to strut their stuff and for those looking to pick up some lessons.
4. Boulder’s Beach – Best beach for seeing penguins
If Muizenberg isn’t the most famous beach, then Boulder’s beach surely is. No, not really for the boulders, which are also a unique sight, but for the Penguins! Yes, Penguins.
Home to Boulder’s Penguin Colony. The beach is unique in that you can chill out on the sandy shores, or on one of the boulders, and you may befriend a rather outgoing little penguin. When you’re done chilling with those well-dressed aquatic birds, head over to their sanctuary just off of the side of the beach.
Pathways have been constructed to not interfere with the bird’s natural laying locations and you will be able to witness some of the Cape Penguins in a more natural habitat.
5. Blouberg Beach
Directly translated to ‘Blue Mountain Beach’. This is the longest beach on the west side of Cape Town, with the perfect view of Table Mountain for any budding photographers.
The distance from the mountain is what gives it the name, as it fades into a blue hue over the bay.
Blouberg is not as crowded as the east side beaches but will be very busy on most hot days, and in particular during the summer.
This is a great spot for all kinds of water sport, with the beach unofficially sectioned off for Kite Surfers, Surfers & even Stand-up Paddle Boarders further down at Big Bay.
6. Melkbos Beach
You will find Melkbos a little north of Cape Town. The perfect beach for anyone looking for a long sandy shore, whilst also having largely peace and quiet.
Of all the beaches I’ve mentioned, this is by far the quietest.
It’s also the furthest from the city center, but for anyone looking a little bit of rest bite from the big city drone.
If the calmness is not enough to get you out of the hustle and bustle of Cape Town, some of the best fish & chips can be found at Melkbos Fisheries.
7. Sandy Bay
So, we’ve had great surf, great food, long beaches, horse-riding, and all sorts of other sports. What could we still be missing to make Cape Town a haven that can cater to all beachgoers?
If you thought, a nude beach, you’d be correct. This beach isn’t the easiest to access, for good reason. You will need to take a bit of a walk as it’s nestled well away from any prying eyes.
This one is definitely not meant for the family day out at the beach. I also wouldn’t recommend any beach sports either. 😉
Note:
Cape Town beaches are known for car break-ins, try not to park your car in areas that are too quiet or empty.
Do not leave any valuables in your car, as even a jacket could be enough for someone to break in.
It should go without saying that you should not leave any valuables unattended when you head into the water either.
You may also find some smaller beaches between these awesome spots that we’ve mentioned. They can also be just as good if the others are particularly overcrowded on the day.
Have you been to any of these awesome beaches? Let us know down below.
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