The 10 Best Cape Town Beaches: One Must Definitely Visit

Travelling souls should plan a visit to the best Cape Town beaches for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is often referred to as the Mother City and offers an array of breathtaking beaches that will leave you in awe. Whether you're a sunseeker, a water sports enthusiast, or just someone looking for a serene escape, Cape Town has a beach for everyone. And visiting these can be a great and wholesome experience. In this guide, we'll unveil the top 10 beaches in Cape Town that you must visit. Each beach has a distinct charm and unique character. 

An unforgettable experience awaits at 10 of our top picks of beaches listed below for you:

Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is renowned for its awe-inspiring colony of African penguins. It is one of the best Cape Town beaches, nestled in Simon's Town, Cape Town, South Africa. As you stroll along the golden sands of Boulders Beach, you'll encounter a unique sight - a thriving colony of African penguins. These charming creatures have made their home here. It provides an enchanting experience for visitors. The penguins are most active during the summer months when you can witness them waddle and play along the shoreline.

During January, the beach comes alive with baby penguins taking their first dips into the ocean. It's a heartwarming scene that fascinates both young and old. For a comfortable and elegant stay nearby, travellers can book their serviced apartments in Cape Town with The Squa.re.

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Muizenberg Beach

Muizenberg Beach, located in the Western Cape, is a vibrant tapestry of colour and culture. It is famous for its vibrant beach huts which makes it a picture-perfect spot for travelers. This is among the best Cape Town beaches for surfing. This beach is known for its consistent waves and welcoming surf community. It's a fantastic place to learn how to catch your first wave or refine your existing surfing skills.

The beach is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, with safe and gentle waters that make it ideal for swimming. However, it's crucial to note that Muizenberg is also known for its Great White Sharks. While shark spotters are present to ensure safety, it's essential to adhere to their guidance and stay within the designated safe zones.

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Bloubergstrand Beach

Bloubergstrand Beach, also known as Blue Mountain Beach, offers more than just beautiful shores. Here, you can revel in stunning views of Robben Island, Lion's Head, and Devil's Peak across the Atlantic Ocean. But the beauty doesn't end with the view alone. Surfers and kite surfers flock here to harness the power of these winds and ride the waves.

The beach at Bloubergstrand is also a popular location for a classic view of Table Mountain across the bay. One can enjoy watching surfers carve through the waves and kite surfers perform breathtaking stunts in the wind. Also for a home-like stay travelers should consider staying in a furnished apartment in Cape Town. These apartments are well organised and provide a cosy stay.

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Scarborough Beach

Another one on the list of the best Cape Town beaches is Scarborough Beach. It is settled in the southernmost part of Cape Town's Atlantic coast. It is a place where the power of the ocean reigns supreme. The waves here are known to be strong, creating a playground for surfers and kitesurfers seeking an adrenaline rush. However, even when the water is calm, it's advisable not to swim in the sea due to the ever-present risk of sharks and strong currents.

Moreover, it's also a paradise for those who appreciate tranquillity. The long stretches of sandy shores provide the perfect backdrop for leisurely walks. Many visitors choose to bring their dogs along, enjoying the freedom of the open beach. The best time to experience Scarborough Beach is from December to March. During these months, the climate is mild, and the sea breeze is refreshing.

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Llandudno Beach

Llandudno Beach, located just 8 kilometres from the heart of Cape Town, is a hidden gem. One of Llandudno Beach's most striking features is its soft, white sand, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. The gentle waves that caress the shore invite swimmers and water enthusiasts to take a refreshing dip. The beach is an ideal playground for beach games, where you can challenge friends and family to a game of beach volleyball or frisbee.

What sets Llandudno Beach as the best Cape Town beach is the dramatic presence of large granite boulders that frame its pristine shoreline. The south side of the beach, affectionately known as Sunset Rocks, is a lesser-known nook. It's less crowded, offering a serene experience for those who seek peace and quiet amid nature's beauty.

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Oudekraal Beach

Part of the Table Mountain National Park, Oudekraal Beach is nestled in a cove between Bakoven and Llandudno. It offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. As part of the Table Mountain National Park, it is not only a place of stunning natural beauty but also a haven for those who seek the perfect beachside picnic or braai (South African barbecue).

As a versatile destination, it's perfect for a family outing or a romantic beachfront picnic. But Oudekraal is more than just a beach; it's a venue for special occasions. One can organize events here for unforgettable moments. Oudekraal is open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., making it accessible for any day of the week. It all makes it one of the best Cape Town beaches to relax and enjoy with family and friends.

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Bakoven Beach

Bakoven Beach, home to the National Sea Rescue Institute, is a heritage area located at 12 Kreef Ln, Bakoven, Cape Town. With its clear blue waters and rocky terrain, it's an excellent spot for swimming and fishing. The beach also provides magnificent views of the Cape Town skyline. Feel free to pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.

The beach is known for its clear blue waters and is a haven for swimmers. The gentle waves and calm, sheltered coves make it an excellent spot for a leisurely swim. Fishing enthusiasts will also find a perfect haven here, with the rocky terrain providing ideal spots for fishing. Additionally, for a perfect living space during your trip, you should consider booking the serviced apartments in Cape Town. These are best for a convenient and memorable stay in South Africa.

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Gordon's Bay Main Beach

Gordon's Bay Main Beach is surrounded by the Helderberg Mountains. It is the best Cape Town beach also known as Bikini Beach. The reef off the shores of Gordon's Bay Main Beach creates a unique underwater landscape, making it an excellent spot for snorkelling and, for certified divers of SCUBA diving. The crystal-clear waters reveal a world of marine wonders, from colourful fish to intricate coral formations. It's an opportunity to explore the mysteries of the ocean.

For those who love to stroll along the shore, there are designated areas in front of the caravan park where you can walk your dog. It's a welcoming gesture for pet owners who want to enjoy the beach experience with their furry companions.

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Foxy Beach

Foxy Beach is a hidden gem located just a short walk from Boulders Beach in Simon's Town, Cape Town. It is a little-known treasure that provides a unique and intimate encounter with Cape Town's penguin colony. It's a short stroll away from Boulders Beach, offering an up-close experience with these charming creatures.

The journey from Boulders Beach to Foxy Beach is made even more pleasant with wooden pathways that guide your way. Foxy Beach is where you can truly sunbathe in the company of penguins. As you bask in the sun's warm embrace, you'll be surrounded by the amusing antics of these waddling birds. It's a charming and heartwarming experience, which makes it the best Cape Town beach for visitors of all ages.

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Fish Hoek Beach

Fish Hoek Beach, meaning "Fish Corner," is a picturesque seaside town nestled on the False Bay side of the Cape Peninsula. The beach, approximately 1.5 kilometres long, offers a flat expanse of fine white sands that's perfect for a wide range of activities.

Families flock to Fish Hoek Beach, finding it an ideal spot for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely walks. The expansive bay is well-protected from strong currents, creating a safe haven for a variety of water activities. And if we talk about the perfect stay then the serviced apartments in Cape Town are the best.

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Closing Thoughts

Cape Town's beaches are a true paradise for beach lovers. Whether you're chasing adventure, relaxation, or unique wildlife encounters, these 10 best Cape Town beaches offer an unforgettable experience. Each beach has its own distinctive charm, ensuring that there's something for everyone in the Mother City.

If you're looking for a place to stay during your visit to Cape Town, be sure to check out TheSqua.re. We offer a variety of serviced apartments in Cape Town, all of which are located near the best beaches and other attractions. Book your stay at TheSqua.re today and experience the best that Cape Town has to offer!

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