Best beaches in Cape Town

Cape Town’s beaches are as iconic as her mountain. The beaches spread across the peninsula offer so much to do that there is never an excuse for notgoing to the beach.

We’ve made a list of some of our favourite beaches for surfing and swimming, and ones simply for the scenery.

SURFING

Surfing is serious business in Cape Town. Just ask, well, any Capetonian! But with spectacular beaches and the ideal climate, who can blame us really?!

Some of our favourite surfing spots include:

Muizenberg

Gentle waves that form clean lines and the occasional barrel makes Muizenberg the ideal beach for beginner surfers. Muizenberg is also a great swimming beach so bring your friends and family along. After your surf be sure to treat yourself to a drink at one of the many charming coffee shops in town.

Long Beach

Beginner surfers graduate to Long Beach at Kommetjie. Perfect waves and great swell make this a favourite spot for more serious (intermediate to experienced) surfers.

Not yet a surfer? We’ll help you onto a board and into the waves with ease. Simply book a surfing lesson with us.

SWIMMING

Despite the icy water temperature, swimming in the ocean is a favourite Mother City thing to do. For the best experience, it’s best to go where the locals go so here’s the inside scoop.

Sea Point

There are various spots along the Sea Point promenade that are great for a quick dip or for a day on the beach. Along the promenade you’ll also find the Olympic-sized seawater swimming pool that is well-loved by the locals.

Bakoven

Even though Bakoven offers only a small piece of white sand beach, it offers a great view of the iconic Twelve Apostles and is an intimate spot when you want to escape the crowds and just chill out, alone or with friends.

Clifton Second Beach

This beach is especially popular with families and anybody that enjoys beach sports – think volleyball, touch rugby, cricket or beach bats. The water tends to be rather chilly but it’s hardly a deterrent as the view and the vibe make up for the cold.

Swimming not your thing but still keen on a sea adventure? Why don’t you try Sea Kayaking, it’s a great way to experience the coast and see marine life from close-up.

SCENERY

Boulders Beach

When the locals hear “Boulders” they see penguins. That’s because Boulders is home to a large colony of African Penguins. It’s one of the only places where these endangered creatures can be seen at close range and it’s a magnificent sight.

Blouberg Beach

The view of Table Mountain from Blouberg Beach is breathtaking. And it’s even better at sunset. Go simply for the view, or make a day of it and add a spot of surfing or kitesurfing as this beach is great for both.