Cape Town Beaches

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Some of the best beaches in the world are found in Cape Town, the beach capital of South Africa. Here, the white sands, clear blue waters and magnificent views create an unforgettable beach holiday experience. During the summer months of December to February, Cape Town beaches are transformed into all-day entertainment venues, with various sports events, shows and holiday activities taking place on their shores. In the evenings, the beaches are ideal for sunset picnics and strolls along the water’s edge.

Of course, the beaches also offer near endless stretches of pristine sand for simply soaking up the sun, building sandcastles or frolicking in the waves. Offering a fantastic holiday experience for all ages, Cape Town beaches remain one of the city’s top attractions during the summer months.

Cape Town beach guide: Top Cape Town beaches

Camps Bay Beach and Clifton Beach are two of Cape Town’s most popular stretches, and are located along the city’s Atlantic Seaboard. Ideal for families, these beaches are beautiful locations for picnics, and for soaking up the quintessential Cape Town summer vibe! Trendy bars and restaurants line the streets adjacent to Camps Bay Beach – perfect for enjoying a refreshing cocktail as the sun sinks below the horizon.

Boulders Beach is best known for its large colonies of penguins, which attract thousands of visitors each year. Especially popular with children, Boulders Beach – located in Simon’s Town – features the world’s most accessible breeding colony for African penguins, and is well worth a visit.

Hout Bay Beach is great for water sports and picnics – and also for an authentic “fish ‘n chips” lunch! One of the strip’s major draw cards is the Mariners Wharf, where piping hot fish and chips are sold along the water’s edge. The scenic “Republic of Hout Bay”, as it is known to the locals, offers safe swimming, craft stalls and fresh fish outlets.

Be beach ready!
Don’t forget to take sun-block, hats and swimming togs with you to the beach, and enjoy a great day out along Cape Town’s magnificent coast. Staying in the city centre? Explore fascinating Cape Town attractions in the City Bowl.