In Cape Town, you can stroll barefoot across soft sand in the morning, cool off in the Atlantic at midday and enjoy a spectacular sunset with views of the Twelve Apostles in the evening. Between lively city beaches, hidden coves, endless dunes and even a penguin colony, there are often just a few minutes’ drive. In this guide, we introduce the seven most beautiful beaches in and around Cape Town.

See the photo gallery

1. Camps Bay Beach – iconic & vibrant

Camps Bay is arguably Cape Town’s most famous beach: white sand, turquoise water and the dramatic backdrop of the Twelve Apostles rising behind it. Along the promenade, cafés, bars and restaurants line up one after another – the perfect blend of city energy and beach lifestyle.

• Best time to visit: Afternoon to sunset
• Recommended time: 2–3 hours
• Nearby café/spot: Mantra Café (upstairs), plus numerous bars and restaurants along the promenade
• Pro tip: Ideal for late afternoons – spend time on the beach first, then enjoy a sundowner along the promenade.

2. Clifton Beaches (1–4) – sheltered & photogenic

The four Clifton Beaches are tucked into small coves below the hillside villas and are noticeably more sheltered from the wind than Camps Bay. Each beach has its own character – Clifton 4th Beach is a favorite among locals and travelers alike: wide, sunny and perfect for relaxing.

• Best time to visit: Midday to early evening (warm & low wind)
• Recommended time: 2–4 hours
• Nearby: Short drive to Camps Bay for dinner
• Pro tip: Bring a blanket, snacks and water and enjoy a relaxed beach day.

3. Bakoven Beach – quiet & local

Just a few minutes from Camps Bay lies Bakoven Beach – smaller, rockier and far more laid-back. A great choice if you’re looking for a calm beach with a strong local vibe.

• Best time to visit: Late afternoon
• Recommended time: 1–2 hours
• Nearby café/spot: Cafés and restaurants in Camps Bay
• Pro tip: Perfect for a picnic or a peaceful sunset away from the crowds.

4. Bloubergstrand – postcard views of Table Mountain

Bloubergstrand is famous for offering one of the best views of Table Mountain – especially on clear days. The long stretch of sand is popular with walkers, photographers and kitesurfers.

• Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset
• Recommended time: 1–2 hours
• Nearby café/spot: Small cafés along the coast for coffee with a view
• Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for iconic photos or return at sunset for golden light.

5. Noordhoek Beach – wild & expansive

Noordhoek Beach is one of the most unspoiled beaches around Cape Town: miles long, rugged and incredibly atmospheric. Ideal for long walks and pure nature – and a true highlight if you’re driving Chapman’s Peak Drive, which runs along this spectacular coastline.

• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon
• Recommended time: 1–2 hours
• Nearby café/spot: Noordhoek Farm Village for lunch or coffee
• Pro tip: Not ideal for swimming – but stunning for walks and photography.

6. Hout Bay Beach – relaxed & foodie-friendly

Hout Bay combines a calm beach, working harbor and a lively food scene. The beach itself is great for a stroll, while nearby markets and restaurants give the area its unique charm.

• Best time to visit: Morning to early afternoon
• Recommended time: 2–3 hours
• Nearby café/spot: Delish Restaurant, Hout Bay Market
• Pro tip: Visit on a weekend and combine beach time with a market stop.

7. Boulders Beach – penguins, swimming coves & a free alternative

A must-see for first-time visitors: Boulders Beach is home to a colony of African penguins. Between massive granite boulders, you’ll also find sheltered coves with calm water – one of the few places where swimming is possible. The main penguin viewing area is part of Table Mountain National Park and requires an entrance fee.

However, just a few minutes’ walk away is Windmill Beach – a free beach in the same area. Here, you can often see penguins up close, swim in sheltered water and enjoy a much quieter atmosphere compared to the official Boulders Beach entrance.

• Best time to visit: Morning and afternoon (it cools down quickly in the evening)
• Recommended time: 1–2 hours
• Nearby café/spot: Simon’s Town, including The Lighthouse Café and small shops
• Pro tip: Start at the free Windmill Beach. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot penguins there already – often far more relaxed and without the crowds.

Photo Gallery: The 7 Most Beautiful Beaches

Our Cape Town Highlights at a Glance!

Discover the best spots in Cape Town in a clear and easy-to-use Google My Map. You’ll instantly see which highlights are close together, estimate driving times and plan your routes efficiently.

Our conclusion: Cape Town is a true paradise for beach lovers. Within just a few minutes, you can move from vibrant city beaches like Camps Bay to quiet coves in Clifton, wild coastal stretches in Noordhoek or unique wildlife encounters with penguins at Boulders and Windmill Beach.

Which Cape Town beach is at the top of your bucket list?
Share this guide with your favorite road trip buddies and leave us a comment below!

Discover Your Next Travel Destination: