Cape Town Beaches

Location:

Clifton Beach, Cape Town, South Africa – nestled between Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean on the city’s western coast

Recommended For:

Sunseekers, photographers, couples, and travelers craving a glamorous beach setting with iconic scenery and vibrant energy.

What we Love:

The dazzling white sand, brilliant turquoise water, postcard-perfect views, and the glamorous energy that makes Clifton one of the most iconic beach areas in all of South Africa.

• Relax on any of the four beaches—Clifton 1st through 4th—each separated by granite boulders and offering its own distinct vibe from tranquil to trendy.
• Swim in the refreshingly cool Atlantic waters or simply dip your toes in while enjoying the sun—this beach is a favorite for both locals and visitors.
• Photograph the dramatic coastal scenery that has made Clifton Beach a staple of South African travel brochures and Instagram feeds.
• People-watch and soak in the cosmopolitan atmosphere—Clifton is where Cape Town’s stylish set comes to unwind.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Paid street parking is available along Victoria Road, but it fills up quickly in summer.

Best time to visit:

November to March (Southern Hemisphere summer) for hot weather and buzzing beach scenes. Early mornings and weekdays offer fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Clifton 4th Beach is the most popular and family-friendly, while Clifton 1st is quieter and favored by locals. Pack light—access involves stairs down the cliffside. Bring sunscreen and a camera for golden hour.

Distance:

About 6 km (3.7 miles) from Cape Town’s city center—roughly a 15-minute drive along scenic Victoria Road.

How to Get to Clifton Beach:

Drive or take a taxi along Victoria Road toward Camps Bay. Look for staircases leading down to each Clifton Beach. Parking is limited, so public transport or ride-shares are recommended during peak season.

Location:

Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town, South Africa – located along the Atlantic Seaboard beneath the Twelve Apostles mountain range

Recommended For:

Stylish travelers, couples, photographers, and beach lovers seeking stunning views, upscale vibes, and a touch of glamour on the coast.

What we Love:

The cinematic scenery, from mountain peaks to chic oceanfront villas, and the combination of laid-back beach culture with an air of luxury and sophistication.

• Stroll along the wide, golden sand beach, soaking in views of Lion’s Head, the Twelve Apostles, and the glittering Atlantic Ocean.
• Dip your feet in the cool surf while walking the shoreline—perfect for mindfulness, photography, or casual romance.
• Spot celebrities or Cape Town’s stylish elite relaxing or dining in the trendy cafes, cocktail bars, and lounges lining the beachfront promenade.
• Unwind with a drink at a nearby ocean-view terrace after a sunny beach session—it’s a quintessential part of the Camps Bay experience.

Cost:

Free beach access. Paid parking is available along Victoria Road. Beach loungers and umbrellas can be rented seasonally.

Best time to visit:

December to March for warm, sunny days and buzzing atmosphere. Arrive early for parking and the best beach spots, especially on weekends.

Local tips:

Wear flip-flops or sandals—the beach sand can get hot underfoot. For sunset, bring a blanket and a bottle of wine to enjoy views of the sun dipping behind the ocean.

Distance:

About 7 km (4.3 miles) from Cape Town’s city center—approximately a 15-minute scenic drive via Victoria Road.

How to Get to Camps Bay Beach:

Drive or take a taxi along Victoria Road from central Cape Town. Several MyCiTi bus routes also serve Camps Bay. The beach is directly across from Camps Bay’s popular strip of restaurants and cafés.

Romantic Cape Town Beaches:

Location:

Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town, Western Cape, South Africa – about 40 km south of Cape Town along the Cape Peninsula

Recommended For:

Wildlife lovers, families, photographers, and anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind beach experience with African Penguins as the main attraction.

What we Love:

The unforgettable opportunity to see penguins in their natural environment, the dramatic granite boulders that shape the shoreline, and the scenic boardwalks that offer incredible views without disturbing the wildlife.

• See African Penguins up close—the only place in the world where you can observe them from just a few feet away on a public beach.
• Stroll the raised wooden boardwalks winding through coastal vegetation and sand dunes for panoramic views of the penguin colony.
• Swim in sheltered coves bordered by massive granite boulders—some beaches nearby are open for public access and offer safe swimming in calm, clear waters.
• Learn more at the visitor center, part of Table Mountain National Park, which provides educational insights about penguin conservation.

Cost:

Entry fee applies (as part of the Table Mountain National Park). Different rates for locals and international visitors. Free access to nearby public beach areas without penguins.

Best time to visit:

September to April for warm weather and active penguin sightings. Early mornings and late afternoons offer fewer crowds and better light for photos.

Local tips:

Bring a camera with zoom capability for close-ups, and respect the fences—penguins are wild animals and should not be touched or fed. Consider combining your visit with a drive along Chapman’s Peak or a stop at Cape Point.

Distance:

Approximately 45 minutes by car (40 km) from Cape Town’s city center via M3 or M4 coastal route.

How to Get to Boulders Beach:

Drive south from Cape Town through Muizenberg and Simon’s Town. The beach is well-signposted and has parking near the entrance. Tour operators also include it in many Cape Peninsula day trips.

Location:

Bloubergstrand, Western Cape, South Africa – about 20 minutes north of Cape Town along the Table Bay coastline

Recommended For:

Kitesurfers, windsurfers, couples, families, and anyone looking for breathtaking Table Mountain views away from the crowds.

What we Love:

The postcard-perfect view of Table Mountain across the bay, the vast beach ideal for both high-adrenaline water sports and quiet walks, and the laid-back, scenic charm that appeals to all types of beachgoers.

• Surf the wind! Bloubergstrand is one of the best kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations in the world thanks to its strong, consistent breeze and open water.
• Walk along the wide, clean sands and enjoy iconic views of Cape Town’s skyline, Lion’s Head, and Table Mountain across the Atlantic.
• Picnic or play with the kids—families love the quieter atmosphere and open space perfect for sandcastles, games, or relaxing in the sun.
• Dine at beachfront cafes and restaurants in the area, offering everything from fresh seafood to coffee with a view.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Plenty of street parking and beachfront lots available nearby. Equipment rentals and lessons available for water sports.

Best time to visit:

October through March for warm temperatures and optimal wind conditions. Sunset is a magical time here with glowing light on the mountain.

Local tips:

Bring a windbreaker—this beach is breezy year-round. Pack binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching or want to spot whales and dolphins offshore. Kite lessons are readily available for beginners.

Distance:

About 17 km (10.5 miles) north of Cape Town – roughly a 20–25 minute drive depending on traffic.

How to Get to Bloubergstrand:

Drive north from Cape Town via the R27 (Marine Drive). The beach is well signposted, with several access points and parking areas in the Blouberg and Big Bay neighborhoods.

Unique Cape Town Beaches:

Location:

Muizenberg Beach, False Bay coastline, Cape Town, South Africa – about 25 km southeast of the city center

Recommended For:

Families, beginner surfers, swimmers, and anyone looking for a fun, safe, and colorful beach day just outside Cape Town.

What we Love:

The cheerful row of rainbow-colored beach huts, gentle waves perfect for young swimmers and surf lessons, and the fun, nostalgic atmosphere that makes this Cape Town classic a timeless favorite.

• Swim in safe, shallow waters monitored by lifeguards—ideal for children and those new to ocean bathing.
• Snap photos of the iconic Victorian-style colorful beach huts—a signature Muizenberg feature that adds charm and playfulness to every visit.
• Surf at one of the most beginner-friendly beaches in South Africa—numerous surf schools offer lessons and gear rentals right on the promenade.
• Enjoy nearby cafes, playgrounds, public restrooms, and picnic areas that make Muizenberg one of the most accessible and comfortable beaches for families.

Cost:

Free beach access. Paid parking available along Beach Road and nearby lots. Surfboard and wetsuit rentals available from local shops.

Best time to visit:

November to April for warm waters and sun-filled family days. Arrive earlier in the day for more space and easier parking, especially on weekends.

Local tips:

This beach is shark-monitored with a flag and siren system—pay attention to local signage. Visit the nearby promenade for ice cream, fish and chips, and family-friendly dining options.

Distance:

About 25 km (15.5 miles) from Cape Town’s city center—around a 30-minute drive along the M3 or coastal scenic route.

How to Get to Muizenberg Beach:

Drive south on the M3 highway and follow signs to Muizenberg. You can also take the Southern Line train from Cape Town station directly to Muizenberg Station—just a short walk from the beach.

The capital of South Africa's Western Cape province, Cape Town is the home of South Africa's parliament and is one of the country's three capital cities, along with Bloemfontein and Pretoria.

The city is also known for its gorgeous natural landscapes, landmarks, and beaches.