10 Best Beaches in Cape Town you need to visit

With white sandy beaches, wild waves, penguins and dramatic mountain backdrops, Cape Town is not only known for its iconic Table Mountain, but also its stunning coastline. The beaches in Cape Town are beautiful, diverse and some even world-famous.

Each of the Cape Town beaches are unique with their own character and charm. From the wild Atlantic coast to the slightly warmer waters of False bay, the city's coastline offers something for everyone.

So are you looking to visit the best beaches in Cape Town and wondering where to go? In this guide, we'll highlight some of the most beautiful beaches in and around the city, including the best things to do once you arrive.

There are far too many beaches to cover them all, so we have listed a few that are considered the best to go to and that are our personal favourites.

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The beaches in Cape Town are not really known for swimming, unlike many other beaches in South Africa, as the Atlantic Ocean is icy cold all year round, thanks to the Benguela Current that flows up from Antarctica. Even in summer, the water can be shockingly cold, which is why lots of locals go to the slightly warmer, more sheltered beaches of False Bay for a swim.

That said, the cold Atlantic waters are perfect for surfing, kiteboarding, long walks along the beach and even for sunbathing on the soft sand. And if you are brave enough, you can try to have a quick dip in the ocean, where the average temp of the water is about 10°C or 50°F.

So here is our list of the 10 best Cape Town beaches you need to visit:

Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach, one of the most iconic and popular beaches in Cape Town, is actually made up of four separate coves, conveniently named Clifton 1, Clifton 2, Clifton 3 and Clifton 4. Easy, right? Each beach has soft white sand and is separated by giant granite boulders, which not only create a sense of privacy but also offer welcome shelter from the Cape’s infamous summer winds, otherwise known as The Cape Doctor.

Access is via a series of pedestrian stairs leading down from Victoria Road above. The climb back up can be a bit of a workout, but the views make it completely worth it. Each of the four beaches has its own vibe, for instance Clifton 4th is the most popular and family-friendly, while Clifton 1st is usually quieter and loved by locals.

The blue water looks incredibly inviting, but don’t be fooled as the Atlantic Ocean here is icy cold all year round thanks to the Antarctic currents. Still, it’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day or simply relax on the sand and enjoy the scenery.

Clifton is also famous for its magical sunsets, it’s one of the best spots in Cape Town to end the day with a picnic or sundowners on the beach. Just be advised that public alcohol consumption is not permitted in South Africa.

Things to do at Clifton Beach:

• Relax on the soft white sand and soak up the sun.
• Walk along the shoreline between the different Clifton beaches.
• Take a dip in the (cold) Atlantic water.

How to get there: Parking is very limited on Victoria Road and fills up fast during summer. Clifton can best be reached by taxi, Uber or with the MyCity bus.

Bakoven Beach

Bakoven beach is a stunning little gem located near the bustling Camps Bay. It's a small picturesque stretch surrounded by giant granite boulders giving it the feel of a well-kept secret. Situated in a sheltered cove, Bakoven offers safer swimming conditions.

The giant boulders not only provide shelter for the prevailing Cape Town winds but also offer shade from the summer sun. The water here is quite shallow and because of the rocks, there is not that much sand, making it perfect for those who enjoy lounging on the boulders rather than the beach itself.

Parking is very limited, so the beach tends to be less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful and lovely day at the beach without all the crowds. However, during the weekend or school holidays, more people will visit so rather go early. Beyond swimming, Bakoven also offers breathtaking views of Lion’s Head, the Twelve Apostles and the surrounding coastline.

It's a rather quiet beach, without the bars, cafés, beach clubs and shops. So if you are looking for just a quiet and relaxed day by the ocean, Bakoven is the perfect choice.

Good to know: This beach does not have any public ablutions or other amenities, so come prepared.

Things to do at Bakoven Beach:

• Watch the sunset as Bakoven Beach is perfectly positioned for sunset views over the ocean, making an afternoon visit especially magical.
• Explore the tide pools around the rocks, especially at low tide.

Camps Bay Beach

With the iconic Twelve Apostles mountain range as its backdrop, Camps Bay Beach is undoubtedly one of Cape Town’s most spectacular beaches. Its palm trees, pristine white sand and turquoise waters create a stunning setting making it perfect for sunbathing and soaking in the views. But like most other beaches in the Cape Town area, swimming is also less common here due to the chilly ocean temperatures, even on hot summer days, but a dip in the sea is still refreshing for those who don't mind cold water.

What makes Camps Bay so popular is its prime location and lively beachfront. Lots of trendy bars and restaurants line the promenade, where you can sip a cocktail while watching the golden African sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Often referred to as the “Beverly Hills of South Africa,” Camps Bay is a place to see and be seen.

Camps Bay Beach is suitable for everyone who enjoys sunbathing, beach strolls and watching the sunset, though keep in mind that it can get very crowded during peak season which is around December. For a quieter visit, early mornings are your best bet.

Things to do at Camps Bay Beach:

• Swim or sunbathe on the soft white sand with stunning views of the coast line and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.
• Watch the sunset as it's one of the most famous and popular sunset spots in Cape Town.
• Take photos of the iconic palm trees with the mountain backdrop.
• Have a drink or meal at one of the many trendy cafés, bars or restaurants along the Camps Bay strip.

Where to stay in Camps Bay: Camps Bay is one of the more popular areas to stay when visiting Cape Town. It's close to the city centre, close to the beach and has a trendy coastal vibe.

There are plenty of nice places to stay in Camps Bay. Indulge in luxury in the iconic Bay Hotel, Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa or the Marly Boutique Hotel.

Llandudno Beach

Llandudno Beach is a rather secluded, beautiful stretch of sand with a quiet, untouched atmosphere. It's located a bit out of Cape Town centre, along the scenic coastal drive between Bakoven and Hout Bay. With soft white sand, pristine turquoise water and dramatic views, it is one of Cape Town's most picturesque beaches and a true local favourite.

Despite its beauty, Llandudno has managed to retain a laid back vibe making it perfect for those looking for an escape from the more busier Cape Town city beaches.

Access to the beach is via one of two short pathways with steps leading down from the residential area above. Parking is limited and fills up quickly on warm days, so it’s best to arrive early, especially during peak summer season.

The beach is also popular with local surfers thanks to its consistent waves. You can swim at Llandudno, just keep in mind that the water will be very cold, even in summer, and the waves and currents might be strong so just be aware of this when going for a swim.

Things to do at Llandudno Beach:

• Watch the surfers catching waves as it's a popular surf spot.
• Stay for sunset as the light over the ocean and mountains is really beautiful here.
• Bring a picnic - especially since there are no cafés or restaurants nearby.

Good to know: As the beach isn't very sheltered, it can get uncomfortable on windy days.

TIP: Go early during peak season as parking is limited.

Muizenberg Beach

Muizenberg is a laid-back seaside suburb of Cape Town and home to one of the most photographed beaches in South Africa. The colourful Victorian beach huts lined up along the sand have become an iconic symbol of the area as they are bright, cheerful and impossible to resist photographing.

Widely considered to be the birthplace of surfing in South Africa, Muizenberg’s gentle waves make it perfect for beginners. It also has a very active surfing scene with a friendly, welcoming surf community and easygoing beach vibe that keeps people coming back.

Thanks to the warmer waters of False Bay, a sheltered bay on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula, swimming here is a bit more enjoyable than on the icy Atlantic coast. Visitors love the soft sand, gentle waves and lively beach vibe.

Where to stay: Muizenberg offers a wide range of accommodation suiting every budget. There are self catering apartments with ocean views, cozy guesthouses near the beach and stylish boutique stays. Discover here the options Muizenberg has to offer.

Things to do at Muizenberg Beach: 

• Take a private surf lesson at one of the best surf spots in South Africa.
• Admire the iconic and instagram worthy colourful beach huts.
• Have a drink in one of the beachside cafés or local surf shop.
• Walk or cycle the route from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay along the coastline.
• Join a full day Cape Peninsula tour if you are not staying in Muizenberg but want to visit this beach.

St. James Beach

St James Beach is a small, charming seaside spot just down the road from Muizenberg. It’s best known for its row of colourful Victorian beach huts, much like Muizenberg’s, set against a beautiful mountain backdrop.

Apart from these colourful beach houses, the real highlight is the tidal pool, a natural rock pool filled with ocean water and protected from the waves. It's perfect for anyone wanting a refreshing swim in safe and calm water or a lazy day at the beach. The beach might be small, but it's packed with local charm and character.

Things to do at St. James Beach:

• Walk along the St. James walkway towards Kalk Bay for beautiful coastal views and hidden rocky coves.
• Take some photos of the vibrant beach huts as they are so picturesque.
• Go early to catch the sunrise over the ocean.

Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach, near Simon’s Town on the Cape Peninsula, is one of the most unique beaches in South Africa. It’s famous for its resident colony of African penguins that have made the sheltered coves their home. Here, you can watch these adorable birds waddle along the sand, dive into the waves, and go about their day in their natural habitat.

Boulders Beach itself is part of the Sanparks and more specifically the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area and so you'll need to pay a small entrance fee to visit. The main penguin viewing area is accessed via various wooden boardwalks, however this section is for observation only, and swimming isn’t allowed here. The boardwalks are perfect for watching and photographing the penguins without disturbing them.

If you want to swim with penguins, head to the Boulders Beach swimming area, just a short walk south of the main viewing platforms. This section is within the same reserve (you’ll use the same ticket) and offers calm, protected water between giant granite boulders 

Just to the north and south of Boulders, Seaforth and Middle Beach lie just outside the SANParks area, offering free public access and calm, family-friendly spots to enjoy the water without the entrance fee.

Things to do at Boulders Beach:

• Visit the penguin colony and watch them play, nest and swim right beside you.
• Walk the boardwalks for incredible views.
• Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and catch the best light for photos.

Noordhoek Beach

Noordhoek Beach is an 8-kilometre stretch of untouched white sand along the Atlantic coast. It's not the best beach for sunbathing because the Cape winds in this area can be really fierce, but that's part of its wild beauty.

This unspoilt beach is perfect for long walks, horse rides, surfing, or just breathing in the fresh ocean air. It feels remote and peaceful, with wide open space and dramatic mountain views all around.

The beach is easy to reach from Cape Town via the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most scenic routes in the country. You can stop along the way for incredible views of the beach from above. On the southern end, the sand stretches all the way to Kommetjie, a rustic seaside village with a laid-back surf vibe and plenty of local charm.

Things to do at Noordhoek Beach:

• Walk along the beach and visit the Kakapo shipwreck.
• Go Horseback riding on Noordhoek Beach.

Hout Bay Beach

Hout Bay Beach is a wide sandy beach with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coastal views. As it's located in a sheltered bay near the fishing town and harbour of Hout Bay, the water is relatively calm and great for swimming or paddle boarding (SUP).

The beach attracts both visitors and locals alike. You’ll see people sunbathing, enjoying a day by the water, going for a stroll along the sand, or walking their dogs. With the mountains rising behind the beach and the harbour nearby, it’s a beautiful spot to soak up the scenery and enjoy a laid-back Cape Town beach day.

You can easily reach Hout Bay Beach by car from Cape Town along the Main Road or via the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive which offers incredible views of the coastline along the way. There is lots of parking close to the beach, making it convenient for a trip there any time of day.

Things to do at Hout Bay Beach:

• Swim, paddle board (SUP) or go surfing in the calm ocean water.
• Go on a guided kayaking tour with the chance of seeing the Cape Fur Seals
• Take a stroll along the wide sandy beach.
• Watch the fishing boats come and go at the nearby harbour.
• Have a traditional fish & chips at the Mariner's Wharf.
• Visit the craft market to buy South African souvenirs.

Blouberg Beach

Blouberg Beach, locally known as Blouberg Strand is one of the most iconic Cape Town beaches for its unbeatable views of Table Mountain across the bay. In my opinion, it's here where you get the best view of Table Mountain and the kind of photos that end up (or used to end up) on postcards. It's that stunning.

Blouberg Strand is known for its prevailing winds making it a favourite place for kite surfers from all over the world. On windy days, the sky fills up with colourful kites creating a beautiful view against the Table Mountain backdrop.

The water is very cold here, so you can go for a very refreshing dip in the ocean or just go for a long walk along the shoreline and you might even see some Cape fur seals. Most people either come for kitesurfing, to enjoy the open space or to catch a fiery Cape Town sunset over the ocean.

Blouberg Beach is very easy to reach from the Cape Town CBD. Just follow the N1 out of the city then the R27 expressway. It's about a 20 minute drive. There is plenty of parking space available when coming by car.

Things to do at Blouberg Beach:

• Enjoy the view with a drink at one of the many beachfront cafés, especially at sunset.
• Go kitesurfing or just watch the action as Blouberg is one of the world’s top kitesurfing destinations.
• Take a picture of Table Mountain at the yellow frame between Blouberg and Eden on Bay.