When it comes to summertime in the Mother City, there really is only one thing that comes to mind almost instantly: the beach! And lucky for us, Cape Town is saturated with beautiful beaches that have captured the heart of tourists and locals alike.
Besides the fact that the beaches spill into the (always cold) Atlantic Ocean, the beaches on Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard are nothing less than spectacular. There are also so many beaches to choose from – so to make your choice fo where to soak up the summer sun easier, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite beaches on the Atlantic seaboard according to what activity they are best suited to.
Surfing Hotspots
Glen Beach
Glen Beach is simply put, a surfer’s dream. The small beach is set in an enclave between Camps Bay beach and the start of the Clifton range of beaches. Because of its location, it is also shielded from the dreaded southeaster that so often blows from the mountain tops on int the summertime.
The waves are best here, with the waves breaking from both the left and the right points. This naturally makes for the beach constantly being full of surfers – from sunrise to sunset.
Llandudno
Just before you reach Hout Bay, you’ll come across the magical seaside neighbourhood of Llandudno. Besides being famed as a hotspot for celebrities to spend their summer or winter holidays, renting massive mansions on the cliffs of this beautiful area, Llandudno is also perfect for those looking to catch a surf.
Llandudno beach is beautiful. Pristine white beaches spill across large rocks into the ocean. Because of the flat lay and sand drop bank just after the shallows at Llandudno, it is also a favourite for surfers. Just be aware of the strong tides and riptides that appear at Llandudno.
Whether you want to surf, bodyboard, or just chill on the sand and large rocks, Llandudno is always a must-see.
Llandudno Beach
Chill Out Beaches
Camps Bay Beach
The mother of all the beaches along the Atlantic Seaboard, Camps Bay beach looks like something out of movie (and that’s probably because it has been featured in several movies!). The long stretch of beach is the perfect place to chill with your girls and catch a tan, play a round or two of volleyball or (dare) to take dip in the ocean.
The beach is big enough for you to find a space of your own, and almost always you’ll be able to rent a sun lounger from one of the vendors on the beach.
The beach is located on Camps Bay’s famous Sunset Strip, which makes it close to an array of fabulous bars, restaurants and, of course, if you’re looking for Cape Town accommodation next to the beach, then The Bay Hotel – one of the stalwarts on Camps Bay’s infamous strip – is the absolute best when it comes to Cape Town beachfront hotels.
Camps Bay Beach
Clifton Beaches
In what is a geographical anomaly (and lucky for us!) the Clifton beaches are divided up into four, fabulous beaches. Starting with Clifton 1st on Bantry Bay’s side and going all the way through to Clifton 4th, these beaches are where you need to be at if you want to be seen.
They are all unique in their ‘personality’ and depending on the size of your posse, you are sure to find your perfect fit at any one of these beaches.
Ideal for sundowners and a quick dip before the last rays of sunlight disappear behind the ocean, the Clifton beaches are the ultimate chill zone.
Clifton 4th Beach
Secluded Beaches
Beta Beach at Bakoven
If privacy is what you need, then Cape Town has got you sorted. There are several small, secluded and downright breathtaking beaches along the Atlantic Seaboard. Some of which have only recently been become popular for those looking for a smaller more intimate beach.
The most popular of these is Beta Beach at Bakoven. The small beach has everything you need for a relaxing day at the beach with your favourite book, or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, cliff jumping!
The shallows of this beach is perfect for kiddies to enjoy the water and for adults, the main body of water is perfect for swim.
Cosy Beach
As its name suggests, Cosy Beach is exactly that: cosy. Cosy Bay, where Cosy Beach is located, is close to the ever-popular Oudekraal Nature Reserve and picnic venue (another hotspot to check out if you want to braai and beach!).
Perfect for a quick dip in the ocean, this beach will warm your heart – because it is that adorable. A fair word of warning though: the beach is tiny, so if you do want to make a trip to Cosy Beach, be sure you get there early to grab a spot.
Pet-Friendly Beaches
Hout Bay Beach
Hout Bay in itself is a must-visit when touring the Atlantic Seaboard. The seaside town’s main beach is also one of the best beaches to visit with your four-legged friend.
The ocean is perfect for both human and furry friend to take a dip, and the long stretch of beach makes it the perfect place to play a game (or two, or three…) of catch.
It is also close to a variety of shops and pet-friendly restaurants where you and your pooch and cool off and have a drink after your fun time at the beach.
Hout Bay Beach
Granger Bay Beach – Mouille Point
Mouille Point is a gorgeous neighbourhood between the V&A Waterfront precinct and Sea Point, with a string of wonderful cafes, delis and ice cream shops on the strip, Of course, the iconic Mouille Point Lighthouse is also situated on the strip, and a must-see for those making their way along the Atlantic Seaboard.
However, its the small yet beautiful beach at Granger Bay that is the perfect place for a sunset do with you and your four-legged friend. There is almost ample space along the promenade for those looking for a longer jog, which leads into the fabulous Sea Point promenade.
So, whether you’re looking for a place to chill, a place to tackle the water of the Atlantic Ocean, or a place to take your furry friend, Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard offers a collection of beautiful beaches that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world!
P.s – A Cape Town adventure is only enhanced by incredible accommodation like that of The Bay Hotel – go on, you’ll thank us later!