With a variety of surf spots catering to all skill levels, Cape Town has become a hub for wave enthusiasts from around the world. The surfing culture here is not just about catching waves; it’s a lifestyle embraced by both locals and visitors.
Also read: Wave Challenge makes a splash at Surfer’s Corner
Whether you prefer the historical charm of Muizenberg Beach, Llandudno’s stunning views, or the adrenaline-pumping challenges of Dungeons, each spot adds something special to the local surfing scene. Here are five of the best spots to surf in and around Cape Town:
Muizenberg Beach:
Muizenberg Beach, steeped in surfing history, is home to the Surfers’ Circle Walk of Fame, the first South African national monument dedicated to celebrating surfing.
The monument was completed in 2014 through a collaboration between the Muizenberg Improvement District (MID) and the City of Cape Town. With its gentle sloping white beach and consistent waves, Muizenberg Beach is suitable for surfing, kite-surfing, and land-sailing. Board and wetsuit rentals are available from local establishments for those who don’t have their equipment.

Llandudno:
Located just a 15-minute drive from Cape Town and north of Hout Bay, Llandudno offers picturesque surf spots. With big swells and clear waters, it is better suited for intermediate and advanced surfers, particularly during April.
Die Gat (The Hole) is a well-known spot that transforms into a thick, round barrel, providing an adrenaline-pumping ride. For shorter rides, head to the left on the far side.

Big Bay:
North of Blouberg, Big Bay is an exposed beach break where light offshore winds generate good-sized, rideable waves. The area is perfect for all levels of experience. However, beginners are cautioned to stick to the days that will have a smaller swell.
The weather is cooler here, so bring a wetsuit. If you don’t have your gear, you can rent it from one of the local surf shops in the area.

Dungeons:
Dungeons is known for its big wave surfing. It is not recommended for beginners, though. The site is a series of open ocean reefs at different depths, situated at the base of Sentinel Mountain in Hout Bay.
Accessible only by a 15-minute boat ride from the harbour, the waves at Dungeons can reach up to 18 metres. Cold water and hazardous conditions make this spot suitable only for professionals.

Long Beach, Kommetjie:
A sheltered beach break in the south peninsula, Long Beach is known for its consistent surf, best suited for those with intermediate to advanced skills. The Long Beach stretch is popular among locals, featuring southwest winds and a decent swell that creates perfect waves.
It’s important to keep in mind that waves here are tricky because they have to travel from the west side of the coast and make a turn to reach this north-facing spot. As a result, nice, left-breaking waves go for about 40 to 60 metres before reaching the shore.

Also read:
Watch: Cape Town surfer Eli Beukes releases ‘humble brag’ film
Picture: Martin Flischman / Unsplash