Surf, sand and secret coves: discover Cape Town’s best beaches.
Find out where to soak up South Africa’s sunshine with our detailed, local guide to ten Cape Town coastal gems.
From bustling bays and glamorous hot spots to sprawling shores and intimate coves, Cape Town has a beach for every mood and moment.
With its dramatic 307 km (191-mile)-long coastline, the city is the unique meeting point between the cold Atlantic and milder Indian Ocean. The Atlantic’s waters may be bracing, but they’re also home to some of the most iconic sunbathing spots, and a refreshing antidote to a hot summer’s day. On the False Bay side, where the Indian Ocean’s influence brings warmer temperatures, beaches invite long, leisurely swims and all-day seaside adventures.
As an Africa travel specialist with our headquarters in the Cape, Golilo has curated a detailed guide to our top ten Cape Town beaches. Whether you’re after a trendy tanning session, family excursion, or a romantic sunset stroll, you’ll find the perfect sands to sink your toes into.
For more local insights and advice, reach out to us here. We’d love to help you plan a personal, thoughtful, and unforgettable journey to the sunny tip of Africa.
Iconic Shores
Llandudno Beach
Turquoise waters, white sands and a magnificent view of the Twelve Apostles mountains — this is the breathtaking scene that greets you as you step onto Llandudno Beach. Located in one of Cape Town’s most exclusive residential areas, this beach is secluded and quiet. There are no shops or buzzing restaurants close by, just carefree surfers, sunbathers, and picnickers. You can purchase ice creams and limited drinks from local vendors, but if you want something more substantial to eat during your visit to this pristine spot, it’s best to bring it along.
Why we love it: Gorgeous views. Removed from the city’s buzz but close enough for a day visit.
Wind shelter: Good. Large boulders and the surrounding mountains create a natural windbreak.
Distance from city centre: 30 minutes.
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach is best known for its charming, feathered residents: the African penguins (one of only a few land-based colonies in the world). Watch these endangered and curious birds in their natural habitat from the boardwalk, spend the day paddling in the waters of the beach’s many tidal pools, or relax in the shade of the towering and ancient granite boulders. A trip to Boulders Beach is a delightful day out for families of all ages, and particularly fun for those with younger children. At Golilo we often curate privately guided excursions out to Boulders for a more enriching, personal experience. Chat to us if you’re interested in making this a part of your itinerary.
Why we love it: A rare chance to see African penguins on land. Great for families, sightseeing and contributing to conservation.
Entry Fee: Yes. There is a conservation fee for international citizens of R184 (adults) and R92 (children ages 2–11).
Wind shelter: Yes. The famed boulders that give the beach its name provide ample protection from the wind.
Distance from city centre: 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Camps Bay
If a festive, buzzing atmosphere is what you’re after, Camps Bay is the beach for you. The palm-fringed promenade is humming with restaurants, cafés, and bars, while enthusiastic vendors roam the beach selling everything from ice lollies to curios. With its vibrant ambience and stunning views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles, Camps Bay is a classic crowd-favourite.
Why we love it: Easily shift from feet-in-sand to a cocktail in hand.
Wind shelter: No. The main beach is exposed and can get rather blustery.
Distance from city centre: 20 minutes.
Clifton Beach
Clifton is a trendy strip along the Atlantic Seaboard where private yachts idle in the glistening, gentle waters and sun worshippers bask on its pearly shores. Separated into four distinct coves sheltered by boulders, Clifton has something to offer everyone. Clifton 1st draws mostly surfers who relish its quiet, tucked-away setting. Clifton 2nd is the spot for relaxed, land-based pursuits from volleyball to coastal walks, while Clifton 3rd is known for its sense of privacy, and is a long-standing favourite within the LGBTQ+ community. Clifton 4th is the most vibrant and popular, complete with kiosks, umbrellas and loungers for stylish, sun-drenched days.
Why we love it: Beach time has never been so chic.
Wind shelter: Yes. Set below the main road and surrounded by large boulders, the area is very sheltered.
Distance from city centre: 20 minutes.
Blouberg Beach
Blouberg, meaning ‘blue mountain’ in Afrikaans, is aptly named for its gorgeous, uninterrupted view of Table Mountain. While the beach’s scenery alone makes it worth a visit, the strong coastal winds mean it is also an ideal spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Dotted with waterfront restaurants and stretching for kilometres, this beach offers hours of fun for families with spectacular views you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Why we love it: For that classic Table Mountain photo and an active day out.
Wind shelter: No. Blouberg is famously windy, making it ideal for kitesurfing.
Distance from city centre: 20-25 minutes.
Muizenberg Beach
With its instantly recognisable colourful beach huts, Muizenberg Beach has a laid-back charm and is much-loved by locals. Its warm, calm waters make it the ideal spot for beginner surfers and less confident swimmers. Spend the day learning to catch waves, enjoy a classic soft serve ice cream or pop into the bistros and shops that line the promenade of this family-friendly gem.
Why we love it: Chilled vibes, surf lessons and soft serve.
Wind shelter: No. Muizenberg can experience strong summer winds.
Distance from city centre: 35 minutes.
Local Hidden Gems:
Noordhoek and Long Beach
Noordhoek and Long Beach form one of Cape Town’s most expansive and unspoilt sections of coastline—a wild, wind-brushed sweep of sand running from Noordhoek to the laid-back village of Kommetjie. With rugged vegetation and bracing swells, this off-the-beaten-path stretch is not the ideal swimming beach, but it’s a favourite for surfing and bodyboarding. The vast shoreline is also the perfect place for jogging, scenic walks (dogs included), and horse riding. Keep an eye out for the rusted remains of the Kakapo, a 1900 steamship wreck half-buried in the sand. And if you’re a wine lover, pair your beach day with a visit to Cape Point Vineyards for a leisurely tasting overlooking the valley and the sea.
Why we love it: A scenic drive (take the Chapman’s Peak route if you can), combined with beach walks or horse rides and proximity to Cape Point Vineyards.
Wind shelter: No.
Distance from city centre: 50 minutes.
Bali Beach and Beta Beach
Tucked away in the exclusive seaside enclave of Bakoven, Beta and Bali Beach feel like Cape Town’s best-kept secrets. Accessed via narrow, Milkwood tree-lined pathways that wind between charming bungalows, these two coves are an idyllic slice of paradise.
Sandy areas are small, but many visitors simply lay down their towels across the large, sun-warmed boulders—perfect for diving straight into the crisp water or marvelling at the dramatic backdrop of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles mountains.
Why we love it: A secret, secluded escape with incredible views.
Wind shelter: Yes. Surrounding boulders provide natural protection.
Distance from city centre: 20-25 minutes.
Fish Hoek Beach
Set along Beach Road in the relaxed coastal community of Fish Hoek, this spacious beach offers a gentler pace than many of Cape Town’s better-known shores. The warmer waters and calm, safe stretch of ocean with its nearby bustling beachfront shops and bistros make Fish Hoek the perfect spot for easy-going family fun.
Why we love it: A lesser-known local gem with calm, warmer waters.
Wind shelter: Yes. Surrounding boulders create a natural windbreak.
Distance from city centre: 45 minutes.
Glen Beach
Nestled between Clifton and Camps Bay, Glen Beach is a slightly less crowded spot that still offers the same stunning views as its popular neighbours. Sheltered by boulders, the quiet spot is perfect for brisk swims, sunbathing and picnics. It is also just a short stroll from several trendy restaurants and cocktail bars, making it a convenient place for sundowners after a long day of surfing and sunshine.
Why we love it: A less crowded yet central picnic and sundowner spot.
Wind shelter: Yes. Large boulders provide a natural windbreak.
Distance from city centre: 16 minutes.
Ready to explore sunny South Africa?
Cape Town’s beautiful beaches are a must-visit, but they’re only the beginning. From scenic coastlines to the idyllic winelands, vibrant city life to a once-in-a-lifetime safari, South Africa is home to endless unforgettable experiences.
Get in touch with Golilo and let’s plan an adventure that’s perfect for you.