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There’s so much that makes Cape Town a bucket-list destination for travellers from all around the world. When you’re done with Table Mountain, the lush winelands, and the excellent restaurants and nightlife, grab your sunscreen and head to the seaside for beautiful beaches with stunning views.
Join us as we delve into the top 10 best beaches in Cape Town.
1. Camps Bay Beach
This Blue Flag beach offers spectacular views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, fine white sand, great swimming, and a palm-lined promenade with trendy bars, cafés, and restaurants. Camps Bay beach is the perfect place to watch a famous Cape Town sunset with a picnic on the sand.
2. Clifton Beaches
These four small coves separated by granite boulders each have their own unique character.
Clifton 4th Beach is famous for its swimming and sunbathing, while further down the coast, 1st Beach is the perfect destination for surfers and epic sunsets. Head to 2nd and 3rd Beach if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.
3. Boulders Beach
This unique, family-friendly destination is home to a thriving colony of African penguins. Follow the boardwalk to get a closer look at the colony, then settle in on the sheltered beach, go for a swim with the penguins, and bask in the beauty of the surrounding coastal scenery.
4. Muizenberg Beach
Famous for its iconic and colourful beach huts, Muizenberg is a popular destination for learning to surf. You can rent a surfboard and wetsuit from surf schools operating on and near the beach, then head out into the gentle waves before enjoying a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.
If surfing’s not your thing, the long sandy beach is perfect for a seaside stroll.
5. Llandudno Beach
This crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by cliffs and large boulders, giving it an excluded and exclusive feel. Soft golden sand makes it ideal for sunbathing and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip. Llandudno is popular with surfers for its wedge and sand bottom A-frames, especially during Autumn.
6. Noordhoek Beach
Known for its wide stretch of sand and spectacular views of Chapman’s Peak, Noordhoek Beach is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a long beach walk. There’s also the option to go horseback riding, and you’ll often see groups of riders making their way along the shore.
When the conditions are right, Noordhoek Beach is also a popular surf spot.
7. Hout Bay Beach
A short drive away from Noordhoek Beach, you’ll find the charming Hout Bay Beach. Adjacent to a working harbour with restaurants and shops, activities at Hout Bay include kayak trips and boat trips to Duiker Island to see the seals. Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood while you’re here.
8. Glen Beach
Tucked away between Camps Bay and Clifton is the smaller and more secluded Glen Beach. Popular with surfers and a great place to catch a tan and have a swim, this beach is known for its uncrowded and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great destination for a sunset picnic.
9. Fish Hoek Beach
This family-friendly beach’s calm, warm waters make it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a nice, long swim. Snorkel along the rocks, take the kids to the playground, or just kick back and relax on the white sand. Just around the corner is Kalk Bay with its quirky shops, cafés, and excellent restaurants.
10. Cape Point Beaches (Diaz Beach and Buffels Bay)
Situated within the Cape Point Nature Reserve, a visit to these beaches offers the opportunity to spot wildlife such as baboons and ostriches. Known for their dramatic scenery and isolation, Diaz Beach is famous for its steep dunes, while Buffels Bay is ideal for swimming and the perfect place for a picnic.
Cape Town’s beaches offer a wide variety of experiences. From watersports and wildlife encounters to uncrowded getaways set against a backdrop of stunning coastal and mountain scenery, these destinations are perfect for unwinding next to the ocean.
Speak to a travel expert at Discover Africa today about planning a tailor-made Cape Town holiday and make your escape to the seaside.
Written by Gavin Denner
• Travel Writer
Verified by Matthys Van Aswegen
• Africa Safari Expert
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Written by Gavin Denner
• Travel Writer
Verified by Matthys Van Aswegen
• Africa Safari Expert
Part of the Cape Town Safari & Beach Holidays in Africa Collections