My favourite beaches near Cape Town
Cape Town is an iconic city which is on a lot of people’s bucket lists. It is known for its white sandy beaches, good surf, and stunning mountainous backdrops. If you’re lucky enough to have a trip planned here, or if you’re already here and just want to explore somewhere new, then I have a few suggestions for must visit beaches in the area. There are so many beautiful places along the coastline, so you will no doubt be spoilt for choice, but here are my current favourites…
Big Bay
This is my local beach and I love being located only a few minutes away from here. It has a surfy/windsurfing relaxed vibe about it and plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Come down early in the morning, or on a day without much wind, to catch some fun waves with a stunning view of table mountain behind you. Afternoons, especially in the summer months, are normally the best time for kitesurfing. It's a massive beach that stretches all the way to Melkbosstrand (~8km) and beyond! We enjoy running and taking long sunset walks along this beach.
Best for- surfing, windsurfing, beautiful sunsets and views of table mountain and Robben Island.
Boulder's Beach
This is one of Cape Town's most well know beaches and for a ver cool reason- you can see and swim with penguins here! I recommend getting here early in the day because it can become busy very quickly. The water here is normally slightly warmer (don't hold me to it though!) because it is on the False Bay side of the Cape peninsular. The beach is protected by massive boulders and the water is very calm and clear, making it irresistible for a swim!
Best for- penguin viewing, safe swimming, clear waters.
Llandudno
Llandudno is a picturesque beach tucked away at the bottom of the mountains and surrounded by big granite boulders. It's popular for surfing, sundowners and watching the sunset. I enjoy body surfing the waves here as I find they are often too big and breaking too close to shore for a fun surf! There is limited parking on the roads behind the beach, so don't leave it too late in the day to turn up here or you may be disappointed.
Best for- surfing, body surfing, sunsets.
Buffels Bay- Cape Point
You can find Buffels Bay beach in the Cape Point National Park. It is sucluded and surrounded by nature- we swam with Gully sharks, baboons tried to share our beach towels and ostriches wandered around in the dunes behind us. It's the perfect location to take in the scenery of the national park, appreciate a view with no man made developments, and enjoy the peace and quiet of not being near any roads. There is also a tidal pool if you are looking for a safe spot to take your children swimming or if the waves are too big on the beach!
Best for- scenic drive, peace and quiet, nature, tidal pool.
Kraalbaai
Hidden away in the West Coast National Park this little gem is a must visit for anyone in the vicinity and the perfect place to escape from the wind. The Langabaan lagoon has beautiful azure waters and is sheltered for swimming. There are no shops in the area but there are braai facilities, so remember to bring a few snacks and enjoy an evening relaxing on the beach. We combined our beach trip here with a wonderful walk through the national park first. Be on the look out for ostriches, tortoises and lots of other wildlife.
Best for- scenic drive, braai, nature, sheltered from the wind, calm water.
I found it difficult to pick just a few of my favourite beaches because there are so many good ones, but I hope you enjoy my suggestions and have a wonderful time in South Africa!
Tasha x.