Muizenberg in South Africa is a charming, small coastal town on the outskirts of Cape Town, known for its relaxed vibe and vibrant community. Located about 25 kilometers south of Cape Town’s city center, its laid-back atmosphere attracts both locals and tourists.
Famous for its wide sandy beach, colorful beach huts, and historic architecture, Muizenberg offers the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Here you can surf, linger in cozy cafés, or simply unwind – all without any frills or secrecy.
In the following article, we reveal our best Muizenberg highlights and tips. Enjoy browsing!
- General information about Muizenberg
- Muizenberg sights & highlights
- Cafés & Restaurants
- Excursions around Muizenberg
- Hotel tips for Muizenberg
- Muizenberg – Our conclusion
- Short FAQ & travel tips
General information about Muizenberg
Muizenberg is located on the east side of the Cape Peninsula, about 25 kilometers south of the center of Cape Town. It is part of False Bay and offers impressive views of the endless sea. It is called “False Bay” because many ships that were actually heading for Table Bay got lost here in the past.
From Boyes Drive above Muizenberg, you have a fantastic view of the bay. Muizenberg is easily accessible by car or taxi via the M3 or along the scenic coastal road. There are also suburban trains, although we wouldn’t recommend them.
Muizenberg Sights & Highlights
Muizenberg doesn’t have any major sights to offer, but a visit is still worth it. The endless white beach, the colorful wooden huts, the great surfing conditions, and the turquoise sea alone are worth it! We’ve marked the most important spots on the map below.
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1. The Legendary Surfer’s Beach
Muizenberg’s famous beach is a hotspot for surfers from all over the world. The gentle waves are perfect for beginners, and there are numerous surf schools that rent equipment (from R200 per day) and offer lessons*. But it’s not just surfers who get their money’s worth – the wide sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, or just a relaxing day by the sea.
Muizenberg beach is home to the Shark Spotters station. These experts keep an eye on the bay and report shark sightings to ensure the water can be cleared quickly if necessary. While at the beach, be sure to pay attention to the lifeguard signs and signals (sirens). There are usually information boards indicating when a shark was last spotted.
In addition to the boards, flags are also flown: A green flag means the water is safe. A red flag signals increased danger, while a black flag indicates limited visibility. A white flag flying means a great white shark has just been spotted. These measures ensure that beachgoers can feel informed and safe.
2. Colorful Beach Huts
One of Muizenberg’s highlights are the iconic colorful beach huts lined up along the coast. These brightly colored houses, also known as “Edwardian Beach Houses,” are not only one of the region’s most popular photo opportunities, they still serve as changing rooms or for surfboard storage. The huts were recently renovated and now shine in their former glory.
3. Historical Architecture and Museums
Victorian architecture characterizes Muizenberg’s townscape. The historic train station, built in 1913, is an impressive example of this style. The Rhodes Cottage Museum is also worth a visit. Here you can learn more about the story of Cecil Rhodes, one of the most famous British colonial politicians.
- Address: 246 Main Rd, Muizenberg
- Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Admission: free, but donations are welcome
4. Blue Bird Market
The Blue Bird Market takes place in Muizenberg every Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. In a small warehouse, you’ll find delicious delicacies. Whether kebabs, falafel, meat dishes, sweets, or African specialties – it’s delicious and the atmosphere is captivating. In a small anteroom, you can purchase textiles and handicrafts. Click here for the Instagram profile: Blue Bird Market.
5. Muizenberg Peak
Hiking enthusiasts are definitely recommended to take a trip to Muizenberg Peak. From the summit, you have a fantastic view of the coast, the bay, and the town itself. It only takes about 40 to 60 minutes from the start of the trail to the summit. The climb begins at the Muizenberg police station and near the Checkers supermarket.
Cross the main road at Checkers and walk down Camp Road to the end. Go up the stairs, top left (Boyes Drive), and after a few meters, you’ll see a passage to the hiking trails on the right. The sunrises are especially spectacular! You can find more information here: Muizenberg Peak Hiking Trails.
Cafés & Restaurants
In Muizenberg, you’ll find a great selection of cafés and restaurants. The beach promenade is lined with cozy cafés where you can enjoy a coffee and the view of the sea. We’ve listed our favorite spots below.
Hang Ten Cafe: In this café overlooking the beach, you can get delicious smoothies, fresh bowls, great coffee, crepes, toasties, and salads. Perfect for a snack between meals.
Hudsons – The Burger Joint: This restaurant is all about burgers. However, you’ll also find salads, ribs, chicken wings, pizzas, and vegan burgers on the menu.
Lucky Fish & Chips Muizenberg: If you’re craving fish & chips, you should head to Lucks Fish. Here you can get fried squid, pike, and crab with fries at very fair prices.
The Commons: This restaurant not only scores points with its great atmosphere and magnificent view, but also with its delicious vegan dishes. Be sure to check out the dessert menu!
Tortuga Loca: The Tortuga Loca Restaurant primarily serves Mexican dishes. There are nachos, tacos, quesidillas, fajitas, and enchiladas, among others.
Joon: You can have a really good breakfast at Joon. The menu includes sweet baked goods, ice cream, eggs Benedict, avocado toast, and muesli. Salads and wraps are available for lunch.
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Day Trips around Muizenberg
Hippie Village Kalk Bay
Kalk Bay – one of the coolest spots on the Cape Peninsula that you should definitely visit. This small coastal village is best known for its lively fishing port. Fresh fish is sold here daily, and with a bit of luck, you might even spot giant seals surfacing, eager to feast on the fish scraps. But be careful: seals are wild animals – so it’s best to keep your distance!
In Kalk Bay you’ll also find a selection of cool hippie shops like Papagayo and Oh So Boho, as well as cozy cafés and restaurants. The Dalebrook Tidal Pool awaits you right by the sea, perfect for a relaxing swim and sunbathing. In the morning you can get fresh, delicious bread at the Chardonnay Deli Kalk Bay or in the bakery at the Olympia Café.
Our tips for Kalk Bay:
- Olympia Café with bakery
- Fish & Chips at Kalky’s by the harbor
- Ohana Cafe with a view of the sea
- Chardonnay Deli Kalk Bay
St. James Beach
Just a short drive away is this beach, known for its tide pools and colorful beach huts. Right from Muizenberg beach, a beautiful path winds along the coast to St. James. The path is signposted, and you’ll find a few benches along the way for a short break.
But be careful: you can quickly get wet here when the tide comes in and the waves crash against the pavement. After about 20 minutes, you’ll pass St. James Beach, where you’ll again find the small, colorful wooden houses. The bay is cozy and perfect for cooling off or sunbathing.
Cape of Good Hope
Half an hour away lies the spectacular Cape of Good Hope with its wild landscape and famous lighthouse. The cape was once considered particularly dangerous due to its cliffs and strong winds, and was the downfall of numerous ships. There are 26 shipwrecks registered around the Cape.
The southwesternmost point of the African continent is a very popular tourist destination, so expect plenty of visitors. Take a trip to the 250-meter-high Cape Point with its impressive lighthouse. From the parking lot, you can reach it either on foot (it’s quite a climb) or take a leisurely ride on the cog railway (note: it doesn’t run during load shedding).
A narrow hiking trail leads directly along the cliff to the southwesternmost point of Africa. The steep cliffs and the views are simply spectacular. With a bit of luck, you might spot dolphins, whales, and seals in the water. Be aware that there are wild monkeys in the national park that are keen to eat visitors. They also like to sit on car roofs and wait for their chance.
More tips for the Cape of Good Hope:
- Entry: Adults R 400, Children R 200
- Opening hours: April – Sept. 7am to 5pm | Oct. – March 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Don’t forget your binoculars and sturdy shoes!
- Cog railway: Book tickets in advance*
- On site: Restrooms, Two Oceans Restaurant, 3 small shops
- Hike to Diaz Beach and Buffels Bay Beach
Penguins Boulder’s Beach
Just under 30 kilometers from Muizenberg is the small town of Simon’s Town. South of Simon’s Town lies Boulders Beach, a small nature reserve that is now a major tourist attraction. A penguin colony has lived here in this sheltered bay since 1983. More than 2,500 African penguins (also called “jackass penguins”) waddle and swim on this small stretch of beach.
At Boulders Beach and Foxy Beach, you can observe a colony of African penguins and take some great photos. The entrance fee is currently R190 for adults and R95 for children. Two wooden walkways lead you to the beach, where the penguins frolic, and to the bathing bay further back. Important: Do not touch the penguins and do not feed them under any circumstances. Stay quiet and do not disturb the animals.
Note: You can also observe penguins near Lambert’s Bay and in Betty’s Bay. For free!
Hotel tips for Muizenberg
In Muizenberg, you’ll find a wide selection of accommodations for every budget. We booked a room with a cool couple for two weeks via Airbnb. Unfortunately, this is no longer available. We’ve picked out a few accommodations for you that are well-rated and well-located.
- Marina Views*
- Bluebottle Guesthouse*
- Boho, Muizenberg*
- Cape Weaver Muizenberg*
- Surfers Penthouse*
- Oceanfront Penthouse*
- A Heavenly View*
- THE PLACE Muizenberg*
Muizenberg – Our Conclusion
Muizenberg is a perfect place for anyone who wants to learn to surf or simply enjoy the relaxed beach atmosphere. With its colorful beach huts, young people, and numerous cafés, the place has a very special charm for us. Ideal for a short stay to experience the surfing scene and spend a few sunny days.
Small FAQ & Travel Tips
How long does it take to get there from Cape Town? Is Muizenberg safe? How many days should you stay in Muizenberg? When is the best time to visit Muizenberg?