When it comes to beaches, Capetonians and visitors are certainly spoiled for choice. In picking from the menu of beaches, we might take certain factors into account. How many people will be in the area, whether the water is frozen or just a tender ice dip, and of course the scenery that hugs the various coasts. But what about how each ocean paradise might impact our mood?
Here is a guide to Cape Town beaches based on the mood they offer, in the opinion of an avid beach-goer.
Barley Beach
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Barley Beach is one of my favourite beaches for this reason: Her mood is always tranquil. Since Barley is a lesser-known beach, it has a mysterious inquisition to it. Basking in the sun-facing her uncrowded waters, Barley is a hidden gem. For those who want to explore alone, Barley is your spot. Whether that involves meditation, letting your earphones be the best company or indulging in a deep read, Barley is worth a sneaky visit.
Llandudno
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If you want to feel inspired, there’s something about Llandudno. The reason I say this is because of so many surfers and creatives tend to gravitate here. You can easily spot a photographer doing a shoot and gaze at their craft, or enjoy seeing a surfer dancing through the waves, making it look so easy. Of course there are the families and friends vibing to their own rhythm, but when you go to Llandudno, you tend to spot what you’re looking for.
Beta Beach
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Again, a smaller and lesser known beach, Beta has the feel of curiosity. Maybe it’s the grand rocks of the area, or perhaps it is in that hopping over the rocks will lead you to Bakoven, there’s something intriguing about Beta. Enjoying the oceans from the coastline is one thing, but sitting atop a rock and watching the waves crash around you will have you feeling like the captain of your own destiny. It’s a great place to take a friend who isn’t into the crowded beach scene too.
Bakoven
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Bakoven is like Beta’s better known older cousin. It’s known for attracting foreign travellers, so if the mood you’re looking for is an adventurous, but peaceful one, you definitely need to put Bakoven on your adventure list. Beyond the type of people you might meet from around the world, Bakoven also offers tantalising views. It’s a gorgeous spot to snap pictures and have people ask you “where was this taken!” in excitement – if that’s your thrill.
Clifton
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Clifton’s beaches are for the social beach butterflies, especially Clifton 4th. This isn’t to say that you can’t chill by yourself as a lone beach wolf on her snow sands, but it’s probably a more ideal spot to enjoy with your tribe. The mood Clifton exudes is social. It’s also one of the best beaches to introduce a visiting human to mainstream Cape Town. You can expect to see Zaful bikinis and glorified sunglasses. Beyond the essence of mainstream Cape Town, Clifton is one of the most famous beaches for a reason, and that extends to her beauty that has made her so popular.
Sandy Bay
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The famous Sandy Bay has for years been the secret spot for self-love, and appreciating others. If you’re ready to strip away your layers (literally and figuratively) and the mood you want is akin to freedom, Sandy Bay all the way.
Picture: @zimbo_with_a_drone