The Cape is known for its magnificent beaches. The last lockdown was a big blow to Capetonians who were unable to visit. Ordinarily, Mother City residents spend entire weekends lounging on the soft sands, jumping from rocks into the crisp water and having a snorkel through the kelp forests.
Now that the beaches are open, we want to know which is your preferred hang-out? Whether it’s for a quick dip, a lazy weekend or a bit of exploring, which Cape beach is your all-time favourite? We’ve chosen just a few of the top hitters of the many on offer.
The water may be cold, but there is never a better time to jump in!
1. Beta Beach
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This popular beach is well-known on Instagram. Found between the private houses of Bakoven, it’s a cute bay with adequate space to lay out your towel, read a good book before braving the cold Atlantic. This is a beach for those looking for something a bit calmer than the busy, popular beaches. Since it is so close to houses and there is an expectation of low noise levels, it’s not recommended to bring kids.
2. Camps Bay
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This beach is so popular it’s been featured in many films and series, though often masquerading as somewhere in California. Camps Bay is popular for a reason. It’s big so you’ll always find a space to sit and play some beach games, it’s dog friendly and it is minutes away from great restaurants and bars. You can spend the day soaking up the sun and taking a dip before heading for a sundowner and a bite to eat.
3. Monwabisi
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Monwabisi beach is found next to Khayelitsha off Baden Powell Drive. This beautiful stretch of sand is best-known for its massive tidal pool, which is helpful as the beach’s currents can be pretty strong and dangerous. The breakwater has created rock pools which are great for exploring and the braai facilities make it possible to create a full afternoon of beaching fun.
4. Clifton
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Another popular series of beaches, Clifton 1-4 are jam-packed whenever the sun is out. It is not hard to see why as the soft sand, (mostly) gentle waves and impressive lifeguard coverage make these beaches accessible to everyone from singles on their own to large families. Clifton 4th is the biggest and most popular, so if you’re not into crowds, try 1st or 2nd instead.
5. Llandudno
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This perfect crescent beach is a haven just around the mountain. Found in what is considered the safest neighbourhood in the city, you can spend the day on the sand and dipping your toes into the water while Little Lion’s Head looks down on you. Unlike the other beaches, there are no nearby shops as accessing the beach requires walking a ways down from the road. This means you should pack the snacks you need, or bring cash for the granadilla lollie sellers.
6. Muizenberg
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The home of surfing in the Cape. Muizies combines the accessibility of Camps Bay with slightly warmer water to provide a day of surfer-watching. Since it’s been revamped, the Muizenberg promenade is a great place to hang out after you’re done lounging on the sand. If you’re brave enough, you can even try a surf lesson or rent a board and wetsuit yourself from the nearby surf shops.
7. Boulders
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Boulders Beach is aptly named for the numerous boulders that surround it but it is best known for the penguins which pop up while you laze about. Sheltered from the wind and strong currents, this is a great beach for children.
However, unlike the others, you will have to pay a conservation fee upon entering as it is part of the Table Mountain National Park. As of 2021, it costs R40 for SA adults, and R20 for SA children. SADC adults are R85 and children R42. International visitors are R170 for adults and R85 for children.
Also Read: Explore Cape Town’s secret beaches
Picture: @millionmemo/ Instagram
