Rich in natural beauty, the beaches in Cape Town are among the most scenic in the world. And there's something that suits every taste, whether it be surfing, horse riding or sunbathing. With its stunning views and seaside villages, our Mother City is a tremendously popular destination for beachgoers from all over the world. So, let's jump right into our selection of some of the best beaches in Cape Town.
Cape Town's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world!
1. Llandudno Beach
We kick off our list of the best beaches in Cape Town with the lovely Llandudno. In a sandy cove, just a short distance from the city's CBD, this sterling spot is an exquisite beach for picnics, sunbathing and, if you're able to brave the Atlantic Ocean chill, bodyboarding and surfing!
Furthermore, this beauty has the most gorgeous sunsets thanks to its position on the Atlantic coastline. Make sure to pack a picnic, because you're definitely going to want to stay a while!
Scenic view of Llandudno Beach with white sand and turquoise water
2. Camps Bay Beach
When we think about the best beaches in Cape Town, Camps Bay is one of the first to come to mind. This popular palm-lined beach is the perfect place for people-watching, playing volleyball or soaking up some rays while admiring the Table Mountain and Twelve Apostles mountain ranges.
After enjoying a day in the sun, enjoy a bite to eat or a refreshing drink at one of the fantastic restaurants across the beach while watching the golden sun dip below the horizon.
Camps Bay is one of Cape Town's most famous beaches, Image Credit: CapsolZA
3. Boulders Beach
Near the pretty village of Simon's Town lies Boulders Beach, home to a large colony of endangered African penguins. This iconic beach is the only place in the world where you can have such an up-close encounter with these adorable fancily-dressed birds.
This is one of the best beaches in Cape Town not only because it does have lots of very cute penguins waddling around, but it's also set between large granite boulders on the False Bay coastline, making it one of the warmest places to swim in the city.
Visit the endangered penguins on Boulders Beach, Image Credit: Bas Leenders
4. Clifton Beaches
The best beaches in Cape Town wouldn't be the best without Clifton. Made up of four gorgeous sandy, white and sheltered beaches, Clifton is perfect for spending a day lying in the sun. Each beach has its own distinct atmosphere, perfect for every kind of visitor.
If you want some peace and quiet, go to First Beach, as Second Beach attracts a livelier, younger crowd. Third Beach is the best gay beach in Cape Town. And finally, Fourth Beach, the largest and most fashionable of the Clifton beaches, attracting a diverse range of visitors, including families, groups of friends, and couples.
Aerial view of the beautiful Clifton Beaches
5. St. James Beach
St. James Beach is a small sheltered cove along the Cape Peninsula with charming appeal. Lined by a picture-perfect row of multi-coloured beach huts, this is always a favourite for taking some gorgeous photos.
This is one of the best beaches in Cape Town for a fun, local day trip as you are just a short walk away from the lovely seaside town of Kalk Bay, where you will find a spectacular selection of restaurants, shops and more!
Take a dip in the tidal pool on St. James Beach
6. Bloubergstrand
Bloubergstrand stretches along the coast of Table Bay. This stunning strip is popular among sunbathers and watersports fanatics alike. With kitesurfing, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and paramotoring, there's plenty to keep you busy on a hot summer's day!
This is also one of the best beaches in Cape Town to get a perfectly unobstructed view of Table Mountain, making for the most spectacular sunset photographs.
Unobstructed views of Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand
7. Bakoven Beach
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Camps Bay, you’ll find Bakoven Beach. This series of tiny beaches is a hidden gem and a favourite among the locals.
With mesmerising views of Lion’s Head and waveless azure water, this is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Cape Town if you want to spend the day in a relaxing island-like paradise. Plus, the incredible fiery sunsets definitely don’t hurt!
View of Lion's Head from Bakoven Beach, Image Credit: World Orgs
8. Hout Bay Beach
In the coastal suburb of Hout Bay, between the cliffs of Chapman’s Peak and the historical Hout Bay Harbour lies Hout Bay Beach. This long stretch of white sand is flecked with dunes and cut in half by the Hout Bay River, which runs off from the top of Table Mountain.
Beachgoers can enjoy sunbathing, horseback rides, kayaking, and watching dolphins, whales, and seals play in the bay! End your day at one of the best beaches in Cape Town with seaside lunch and a stroll around the Bay Harbour Market.
Paddleboarding off the coast of Hout Bay Beach
The Best Beaches in Cape Town Are Waiting for You…
A trip to Cape Town cannot be completed without visiting its pristine beaches. Whether you’re a beach lover or not, the best beaches in Cape Town are guaranteed not to disappoint!
Our home town is one of the most fantastic places in the world to experience everything a seaside city has to offer. So, consider this your sign to contact our Rhino Africa Travel Experts to book your Cape Town beach holiday. We look forward to welcoming you in South Africa!
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Featured Image: Sergey Ryzhkov
