Cape Town is a world-renowned destination for an outdoor lifestyle. Among the many outdoor activities available, surfing stands out as a favourite pastime for locals and visitors alike.
With a beautiful coastline, the city offers a variety of surf spots for all levels of experience, from beginner-friendly breaks to massive waves for the most seasoned surfers.
Here are some of the best surfing spots in Cape Town:
1. Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach is known for its long, gentle waves that are perfect for beginner surfers. The beach is about 20 kilometres from the city centre and is easily accessible by car or train.
The waves at Muizenberg are created by the strong southwesterly winds that blow along the coast, producing a consistent swell that’s ideal for learning to surf.
The beach is also sheltered from the larger swells that can hit other parts of the coast, making it a safe spot for beginners. There are also several surf schools and rental shops along the beach that offer lessons and equipment rentals.
2. Noordhoek Beach
Noordhoek Beach is a more challenging surf spot on the west coast. This beach is known for fast and hollow waves, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers.
While the waves can be challenging, the beach itself is relatively quiet and uncrowded compared to other popular surf spots in Cape Town.
Noordhoek is known for its consistent surf, which is created by the strong southeasterly winds that blow along the coast. The waves can be powerful and require a good level of fitness and surfing experience.
Also read: Making waves: Surf therapy and mental health in Cape Town
3. Llandudno Beach
Llandudno Beach is a secluded beach just south of Hout Bay that serves as a great surf spot, particularly for those with more experience.
The waves here can be powerful and challenging, with swells that can reach up to 4 metres high. The beach is not suited for beginner surfers, but for more experienced surfers, it offers an exhilarating ride.
4. Big Bay
Big Bay is a beach on the Atlantic seaboard known for its consistent waves, making it a popular destination for surfers of all skill levels.
The surf here is known for its long, rolling waves, which are great for both beginner and intermediate surfers. The waves are created by strong southeasterly winds that blow along the coast, creating a swell that is perfect for surfing.
5. Dungeons
Dungeons is a big wave surf spot just off the coast of Hout Bay. This surf break is considered one of the most challenging and dangerous in the world, with waves that can reach up to 15 metres high.
The waves at Dungeons are created by the combination of strong southeasterly winds and deep water swells, which collide with the underwater rock formations to create towering waves that break with incredible force.
The surfers who ride these waves are among the most skilled and experienced in the world, and the location has been the site of numerous big wave surfing competitions. The spot is only accessible by boat, and surfers are typically dropped off by jet ski or other small watercraft.
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Picture: Surfer