The most beautiful beaches in Cape Town are among the region’s top highlights – each with its own charm. Whether you want to relax on fine white sand, surf in turquoise waters, or enjoy a breathtaking sunset, Cape Town offers the perfect beach backdrop for every mood and activity.
In this article, we’ll show you the most beautiful beaches in and around Cape Town, give you helpful tips for your visit, and reveal what you can experience there. You’ll also find out how best to reach each beach and plan your perfect day on the coast. Enjoy browsing!
- 1. Camps Bay – The classic
- 2. Clifton Beaches – Four little paradises
- 3. Llandudno Beach – A quiet gem
- 4. Noordhoek Beach – Endless expanse
- 5. Long Beach – Meeting place for surfers and dogs
- 6. Witsand & Misty Cliffs – Spectacular kite spot
- 7. Diaz Beach – A wildly romantic beach
- 8. Boulders Beach – Penguins up close
- 9. Muizenberg Beach – Surfer’s paradise
- 10. Kogel Baai Beach – Impressive backdrop
- 11. Bloubergstrand Beach – The perfect view
- 12. Kraalbaai Beach – Perfect for swimming
- Tips for your beach visit in Cape Town
- Frequently asked questions
1. Camps Bay – The classic
Camps Bay is arguably the most famous beach in Cape Town. Framed by the impressive Twelve Apostles on one side and the turquoise Atlantic on the other, this beach offers a perfect postcard backdrop.
We think it’s especially beautiful there in the evening, just before the sun sets when the light is so beautiful. Afterwards, you can make yourself comfortable in one of the restaurants along the promenade.
♀️ Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddling, hikes (Table Mountain, Twelve Apostles), Theatre on the Bay, walks along the promenade, relaxing in the two tidal pools.
ℹ️ Good to know: The beach is very busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Parking along the street is limited, so allow a little extra time. Unofficial parking attendants will also happily ask you to pay. Just ignore them, because parking along the street is free.
⭐️ Insider tip: La Belle Bistro & Bakery in Camps Bay is the perfect place for a relaxing breakfast or sundowner overlooking the beach and ocean—be sure to try the homemade baked goods!
Getting there:It’s only about a 15-minute drive along Victoria Road. We recommend the MyCiTi bus from Cape Town or the hop-on hop-off bus (red or blue line). This stops right on the beach. You can also rent a bike by the hour from Up Cycles Sea Point and cycle to Camps Bay Beach. You can then return it either in Sea Point or at the station in Camps Bay.
If you don’t want to use a rental car, bus, or bike, we recommend an Uber taxi. You can get to Camps Bay from the city center of Cape Town quickly and cheaply by taxi.
Beautiful accommodations in Camps Bay
Diamond House Guesthouse:This accommodation offers the perfect combination of stylish rooms, breathtaking views, and a very relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a quiet retreat close to nature and the beaches. Book a room here*.
Auberge Cape Guesthouse: Luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Twelve Apostles await you here. A lovely place for those who appreciate comfort and views. Book a room here*.
POD Camps Bay Boutique Hotel: A modern boutique hotel with stylish rooms and great service. Past guests praise the proximity to the beach and the impressive views. Book a room here*.
The Marly Boutique Hotel: This five-star hotel offers luxurious suites with ocean or mountain views, a private rooftop pool, and first-class restaurants right on the doorstep. Book a room here*.
South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel:A stylish hotel with self-catering suites equipped with kitchens. Guests appreciate the proximity to the beach and modern amenities. Book a room here*.
Atlanticview Cape Town Boutique Hotel: This exclusive hotel offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, luxurious rooms, and personalized service. Ideal for guests seeking peace and elegance. Book a room here*.
Powered by GetYourGuide
2. Clifton Beaches – Four Little Paradises
Located right next to Camps Bay, the Clifton Beaches are divided into four sections, each attracting a different crowd. All beaches are sheltered from the wind, making them particularly popular. Clifton Beach 1 is a quiet stretch of beach and ideal for strolls.
Clifton Beach 2 and 3 are popular with locals, the LGBTQ scene, and younger visitors. Clifton Beach 4 is family-friendly and one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches. White sand, clear water, and a laid-back atmosphere await you.
♀️ Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hikes (Table Mountain, Twelve Apostles), strolls along the promenade, relaxing in the tidal pool, paddle tennis.
ℹ️ Good to know: The beaches are accessible via stairs from Victoria Road. Parking is limited, so we recommend arriving early or using public transport. The water can be quite cool, even in summer, with temperatures between 12 and 16°C.
⭐️ Insider tip: Stay until sunset! Clifton’s beaches are not only beautiful during the day, but also offer a spectacular backdrop in the evening when the sun sinks into the Atlantic. Be sure to bring a picnic and a bottle of wine (allowed in South Africa, as long as you take your trash with you).
Getting there:By car, you can reach Camps Bay Beach in about 15 minutes via Victoria Road. Alternatively, you can take the MyCiTi bus from Cape Town or the hop-on hop-off bus (red or blue lines) – both stop directly in Camps Bay. For a sportier option, you can rent a bike from “Up Cycles Sea Point,” use it by the hour, and return it either there or at the station in Camps Bay.
If neither a car, bus, nor bike is an option, an Uber taxi is a practical option. It takes you quickly and inexpensively from Cape Town city center to Camps Bay.
Beautiful Accommodations in Clifton
Clifton Beachfront Studio: Located right on the beach in Cape Town, the Clifton Beachfront Studio offers a modern apartment with a balcony and sea views. The property features a fully equipped kitchen, free WiFi, private beach access, and is just steps from Clifton Beaches. Book your apartment here*.
The Nici Clifton Sea View Apartments: The Nici Clifton Sea View Apartments in Cape Town offer modern accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen, free WiFi, and a terrace. Just 90 meters from Clifton 1st Beach, you can enjoy air conditioning, sea views, and convenient proximity to other Clifton Beaches. Book your apartment here*.
Clifton Views: The Clifton Views apartment in Cape Town offers a spacious 3-bedroom apartment with a well-equipped kitchen and a terrace with sea views. Featuring an outdoor pool, barbecue facilities, free WiFi, and private parking, the property is just a few minutes’ walk from Clifton Beaches. Book an apartment here*.
3. Llandudno Beach – A Quiet Gem
Cape Town has many beautiful beaches, such as the quiet and idyllic Llandudno Beach. No cafes, no restaurants, no beach vendors – Llandudno is a more pristine beach, surrounded by imposing cliffs and villas in the hills.
The secluded beach is especially popular with locals and surfers. The water is typical of the Atlantic coast – ice-cold. A wetsuit is definitely more comfortable in these temperatures.
♀️ Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, walks, surfing, bodyboarding, hike to Sandy Bay, yoga session with a view over the sea (to the yoga studio).
ℹ️ Good to know: There are no restaurants or shops nearby, so bring everything you need. Parking is limited here too. It’s best to arrive early in the day, especially on weekends or during school holidays.
⭐️ Insider tip: If you want to experience Llandudno from a different perspective, take a bike tour from Cape Town and explore the beautiful bays and beaches along the Atlantic coast (including Chapman’s Peak Drive). Book your tour here*.
Getting there: By car, it’s only about 30 minutes via Victoria Road and the M6. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 108 and 119 to Llandudno. However, the journey is long and involves many stops. It’s best to order an Uber taxi and let them take you to the beach. It’s quick and cheap.
Beautiful accommodations in Llandudno
The Marvel Beach House: This hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains. Past guests particularly praise the friendly staff and impressive views. Book your room here*.
Beach Music: Luxurious accommodations with breathtaking sea views await you. The villa features a fully equipped kitchen, an infinity pool, and direct access to the beach. Guests praise the spacious rooms and proximity to the beach. Book your villa here*.
Solmara House: The Solmara House in Llandudno is a luxurious beachfront property, ideal for families or larger groups. With a private pool, modern kitchen, and stunning sea views, it offers everything you need for a relaxing stay in an exclusive location. Book your villa here*.
Villa Frangipani: This villa is a luxurious six-bedroom, eight-bathroom holiday home that can accommodate up to twelve guests. The villa features a private pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and offers both mountain and sea views. Book the villa here*.
Powered by GetYourGuide
4. Noordhoek Beach – Endless Expanse
Noordhoek Beach is one of the longest and most pristine beaches around Cape Town. The fine white sand stretches for miles and is surrounded by mountains and dunes. Noordhoek Beach always reminds us of St. Peter Ording on the North Sea.
There are no cafés or beach vendors here, just vastness, silence, and the roaring Atlantic. Surfers also appreciate the long beach and ride the occasional wave. Another special highlight are the horseback riding, which is one of the top activities at Noordhoek Beach.
Activities: Walks, surfing (for advanced surfers), kitesurfing, and picnicking in the dunes and on the beach. Also horseback riding on the beach (book a ride here*).
ℹ️ Good to know: Noordhoek Beach is rough, and the water off the Atlantic coast is freezing cold, making it unsuitable for swimming. Bring food and drink, as there are no amenities directly on the beach. There have also been reported cases of assaults by individual tourists, particularly in remote areas of the beach and after dark. We therefore recommend that you do not go to the beach alone and do not display valuables.
⭐️ Insider tip: Visit the beach in the early evening, when the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains and bathes the expanse of the beach in golden light – ideal for photos and quiet moments.
Getting there: From Cape Town, you can reach Noordhoek Beach in about 40 minutes via Chapman’s Peak Drive – one of the most beautiful coastal roads in South Africa. Alternatively, you can take an Uber taxi or explore the beach as part of a Cape Peninsula tour. There is a small parking lot just before the beach, but spaces are limited.
Beautiful Accommodations in Noordhoek & Kommetjie
Wild Rose Country Lodge: Located in Noordhoek, Wild Rose Country Lodge offers cozy accommodations with sea views, a garden, a terrace, and barbecue facilities. Some rooms feature a balcony or patio with mountain or pool views. You can also enjoy free WiFi, parking, and a daily breakfast. Book a room here*.
Guinea Fowl House: Located in Kommetjie, just 300 meters from Long Beach, Guinea Fowl House offers cozy rooms with garden or sea views, some with a balcony or patio. The property features a garden, a terrace, free WiFi, and serves breakfast daily. Book a room here*.
Stylish Kommetjie Escape: Stylish Kommetjie Escape offers a cozy holiday home with a sauna, a terrace, and free private parking, just 1.1 km from Long Beach. The property features one bedroom and a fully equipped kitchen. Book a house here*.
5. Long Beach – Meeting Point for Surfers and Dogs
Long Beach in Kommetjie is a long, idyllic beach perfect for long walks. Families and dog owners especially love this spot, and it’s not uncommon to run into a happy four-legged friend.
The beach is also very popular with surfers, as the waves here withstand the southwest winds well. But if surfing isn’t your thing, grab a picnic and enjoy the day relaxing on the beach.
♀️ Activities: Surfing, beach walks, kitesurfing, and picnics on the beach.
ℹ️ Good to know: The water here is typical of the Atlantic coast – cold! Bring snacks and water, as there is hardly any infrastructure directly on the beach. The beach is safe, but as with any area in South Africa, you shouldn’t leave valuables unattended. If you walk far enough, you might even reach Noordhoek Beach and discover the Kakapo shipwreck.
⭐️ Insider Tip: The beach is especially beautiful at sunset. Surfers should arrive early, as the waves are often best in the morning. We also recommend a walk to the beautiful Kommetjie Lighthouse.
Getting there: Long Beach is about 45 minutes from Cape Town. By car, you can reach Kommetjie via the M65. Alternatively, you can book an UBER taxi or a private transfer.
6. Witsand & Misty Cliffs – Spectacular Kitesurfing Spot
Kitesurfing experts will find their money’s worth at the foot of the Misty Cliffs. However, the waves can get frighteningly high and sometimes break on rocks – a spot that doesn’t forgive mistakes. Caution is advised, especially during high tide or a strong Cape Doctor, as the swell becomes powerful and the shorebreak fierce.
Those who nevertheless venture to this spot should be absolutely confident in the waves and consider the dangers of the hidden rocks in the water. If you prefer solid ground under your feet, you can enjoy beautiful beach walks at Misty Cliffs and Witsand Beach.
♀️ Activities: Walking through the dunes, sunbathing, photography, and kitesurfing.
ℹ️ Good to know: The water, like the entire Atlantic coast, is cold and the currents can be strong – swimming is therefore not recommended. Bring snacks and plenty of water, as there are no supplies on site.
⭐️ Insider tip: Next door in Scarborough is the Whole Earth Café. They serve a great breakfast and delicious coffee. The café offers many vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Getting there: Witsand is about 50 minutes from Cape Town. Take the M65 towards Scarborough, Misty Cliffs and then on to Witsand. A car is the best option here, as public transport is scarce in the area.
7. Diaz Beach – A wildly romantic beach
Diaz Beach is secluded and nestled between dramatic cliffs at the Cape of Good Hope. The fine, white sand and turquoise water make this beach one of the most beautiful spots in the region. Access is via a relatively steep path (including stairs), which also means that the beach is often deserted.
Swimming in the Atlantic is not recommended here due to the strong currents and rough waves. Instead, Diaz Beach is ideal for walks along the water, cool photoshoots, or simply enjoying the view of the impressive cliffs and the sea.
♀️ Activities: Walks along the beach, photography, sunbathing, relaxing, and hikes in the area.
ℹ️ Good to know: The beach is part of Table Mountain National Park, which means you have to pay an entrance fee. Currently, adults pay 455 Rand and children 225 Rand.
⭐️ Insider tip: On your way to the Cape of Good Hope, we recommend a short hike starting at Olifantsbos Beach. The Thomas T. Tucker Shipwreck Trail starts there, leading you to two shipwrecks.
Getting there: Diaz Beach is located on the Cape Peninsula in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, about 60 minutes from Cape Town. From the parking lot, you reach the beach via a steep, well-marked hiking trail – we recommend sturdy shoes. Guided tours also stop at Cape Point.
8. Boulders Beach – Penguins up close
Boulders Beach is world-famous for its colony of African penguins and is certainly one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town. The beach itself is protected by large rocks, making the water calm and ideal for swimming.
Two wooden walkways lead to the beach where the penguins hang out and to the bathing bay a little further back. However, it is important that you do not touch or feed the penguins. Also, remain quiet and do not disturb the animals.
Activities: Watching penguins (from the wooden walkway or directly on the beach), sunbathing, swimming in the calm waters, and short walks along the coast.
ℹ️ Good to know: The beach is part of a protected area, so an entrance fee is charged (currently R215). Respect the animals and keep a safe distance—as cute as they are, they’re still wild animals. Bring snacks and water, as there are few food options nearby.
⭐️ Insider Tip: Visit the beach early in the morning (between 7 and 8 a.m.) or late in the afternoon—it’s quieter, and the light is perfect for photos with the penguins. At the back beach, you can even swim among the rocks and, with a bit of luck, spot penguins swimming right next to you—a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Getting there: From Cape Town, Boulders Beach is about a 40-minute drive away. An Uber or private transfer is also a convenient option. Alternatively, you can take the bus to Hout Bay and change there to the bus to Simon’s Town.
Beautiful accommodations in Simon’s Town
The Willets Boutique Hotel: Located in Simon’s Town near Long Beach, The Willets Boutique Hotel offers stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi, some with sea views. You can enjoy African and British cuisine in the on-site restaurant or treat yourself to a cocktail at the bar. Book a room here*.
Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel: Located directly on False Bay, Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel offers cozy, air-conditioned rooms with balconies and views of the bay. From here, you can easily reach Boulder’s Beach with its penguins and numerous shops and restaurants on foot. Book a room here*.
Bonne Esperance, Simon’s Town: Located in Simon’s Town, just 500 meters from Seaforth Beach, Bonne Esperance offers rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and parking. The property features an outdoor pool, a terrace, barbecue facilities, and serves a buffet or continental breakfast. Book a studio here*.
Powered by GetYourGuide
9. Muizenberg Beach – Surfer’s Paradise
Muizenberg Beach is known for its colorful beach huts and super relaxed atmosphere. The long, flat beach on False Bay not only attracts families with children but is also a hotspot for beginners who want to try surfing. In contrast to the icy Atlantic coast, the water here at Muizenberg Beach is somewhat warmer. A wetsuit is still a plus.
♀️ Activities: Surfing (beginner courses can be booked directly on-site), sunbathing, swimming, strolls along the promenade, kitesurfing, and paddling.
ℹ️ Good to know: There are many cafés, surf shops, and board and wetsuit rentals around the beach. Security is also relatively good here, but as everywhere in South Africa, you shouldn’t leave valuables unattended.
⭐️ Insider tip: Start your day with breakfast at the cool “Joon Café” and then book a surfing lesson* at one of the local schools—perfect if you’re new to surfing. More about this here: Our Muizenberg tips.
Getting there: From Cape Town, you can reach Muizenberg in about 30 minutes by car. An UBER is also a quick and inexpensive alternative.
Beautiful accommodations in Muizenberg
Bluebottle Guest House: A cozy guesthouse on the hills of Muizenberg with stunning panoramic views and a personal atmosphere. Book your room here*.
THE PLACE Muizenberg: is a modern accommodation near the beach, ideal for digital nomads, with fast Wi-Fi, cozy rooms, and an outdoor pool with mountain views. Book a room here*.
Cape Weaver Muizenberg: A charming mountainside holiday home awaits you, just steps from the surfer and artist village of Muizenberg, with breathtaking views of False Bay and a refreshing saltwater pool. Book an apartment here*.
10. Kogel Baai Beach – Impressive Setting
Kogel Baai Beach is an impressive beach on False Bay, framed by dramatic mountains and cliffs. You’ll automatically pass this beach when traveling along the scenic Clarens Drive (R44).
The expansive sandy beach is especially popular with surfers and nature lovers, but is also ideal for a relaxing day by the sea or a long walk along the coast.
♀️ Activities: Surfing, beach walks, sunbathing, picnicking, and photography.
ℹ️ Good to know: The beach is part of False Bay, and the water here is slightly warmer than on the Atlantic coast, but still remains refreshingly cool. There is no on-site infrastructure, so bring everything you need for your beach day.
⭐️ Insider tip: Visit the beach in the morning when the sun rises over the mountains. Then continue to Betty’s Bay and marvel at the cute penguins frolicking there in the Stoney Point Nature Reserve.
Getting there: Kogel Baai Beach is located about 1 hour from Cape Town, along the scenic Clarence Drive. A rental car* is the best option for exploring the surrounding area with flexibility.
11. Bloubergstrand Beach – The Perfect View
One of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town is definitely Bloubergstrand Beach. It is known for its incredible view of Table Mountain – a true postcard view that you absolutely have to experience in person.
The wide, long beach with white sand is especially popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers, as the constant winds provide perfect conditions. Bloubergstrand Beach is also ideal for a relaxing day at the beach or long walks along the coast.
♀️ Activities: Kitesurfing, windsurfing, beach walks, sunbathing, picnics, and photo shoots with a view of Table Mountain. A quad bike tour through the dunes is also possible. Atlantis* is very popular.
ℹ️ Good to know: The beaches here are part of the Atlantic coast, so the water is also ice-cold – a wetsuit is therefore a must for water sports enthusiasts. There is a good selection of restaurants and cafés around the beach, as well as plenty of parking along the road.
⭐️ Insider tip: Whether morning or evening – the view from the beach is simply outstanding. A little further north is Big Bay Beach, which also offers a magnificent view of Cape Town’s skyline.
Getting there: Bloubergstrand is about 25 minutes from Cape Town and is easily accessible by car or Uber. Alternatively, you can take the MyCiTi bus (T01 or T02 to Table View).
Beautiful Accommodation in Bloubergstrand
Blaauwberg Beach Hotel: Located right on the beach in Bloubergstrand, Blaauwberg Beach Hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free high-speed WiFi and views of Table Bay, Table Mountain, and Robben Island. It features an outdoor pool, an Italian-inspired restaurant with live show cooking and a wood-fired oven, and a varied breakfast menu. Book your room here*.
Belle Maroc: Located right on the beach in Bloubergstrand, Belle Maroc offers en-suite rooms, some with a balcony and sea views. The property features a terrace, a restaurant, a bar, and free WiFi. It is just 25 km from Cape Town Airport. Book your room here*.
White Waves Beach House: Located just 200 meters from the beach in Bloubergstrand, White Waves Beach House offers sea views, an outdoor pool, a garden, and fully equipped units with private kitchens. Free WiFi, parking, and barbecue facilities are provided. Book a studio here*.
Bentley’s Guesthouse: Bentley’s Guesthouse in Bloubergstrand is just 500 meters from the beach and offers cozy rooms with every comfort – from a minibar and flat-screen TV to pool views in some rooms. In addition to an outdoor pool, a terrace, and a garden, you can look forward to a delicious breakfast, and bicycle and car rentals are available on-site. Book a room here*.
12. Kraalbaai Beach – Perfect for Swimming
The best comes last? The beautiful Kraalbaai Beach is located in the unique Langebaan Lagoon of the West Coast National Park and is one of the best beaches for swimming in the region.
The crystal-clear, calm waters and fine sand make Kraalbaai Beach a popular destination for families, couples, or anyone who simply wants to relax and swim. The water temperature is pleasant at up to 20 degrees Celsius. warm.
♀️ Activities: Swimming, stand-up paddling, kayaking, sunbathing, picnicking, kiting, BBQs, and long walks on the beach.
ℹ️ Good to know: Kraalbaai Beach is part of the West Coast National Park, so an entrance fee is required. Currently, adults pay R128 and children R64 (outside of flower season). There are no cafés or shops directly on the beach, so bring plenty of snacks and drinks.
⭐️ Insider tip: Book a guided kayak tour* to explore the Langebaan Lagoon—early in the morning, the water is particularly calm and the views spectacular. You can even spend the night on a houseboat in the bay. Book here: Kraalbaai Lifestyle House Boats*.
Getting there: Kraalbaai Beach is located about 90 minutes from Cape Town. It is best reached by car, as public transport is not available. The parking lot is located above the beach.
Tips for your beach visit in Cape Town
A day at the beach in Cape Town is always a highlight – but there are a few things you should keep in mind to really enjoy your stay.
Water temperature: The beaches on the Atlantic coast beckon with crystal-clear water, but be careful – the water here is quite cool at 12 to 16 degrees. If you prefer it a little warmer, you should visit the beaches on False Bay, where the Indian Ocean provides more pleasant temperatures.
Sun protection: The sun in South Africa is particularly strong, even on cloudy days. So don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly and, ideally, bring a hat or cap. A shady spot is often hard to find, so plan accordingly.
Safety: Make sure you only swim in designated areas, as some Strong currents can occur on beaches. It’s especially worth checking the lifeguard signs on the Atlantic beaches.
Wind: Cape Town is notorious for its sometimes strong winds, especially in summer. If it gets too stormy on one beach, sheltered beaches like Clifton Beaches or Llandudno offer a perfect alternative for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
As you’ve now learned, there are many beautiful beaches in Cape Town. These are as diverse as the city itself – from lively hotspots to hidden beaches, there’s something for every taste. Which beach is your favorite? Or do you perhaps have an insider tip that we haven’t heard about yet? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in the sea in Cape Town? Where can you swim in the sea in South Africa? Can you swim in Cape Town Going on a beach holiday? Is the sea warm in Cape Town? What types of sharks are there in South Africa? Which are the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town?