Best Beaches in Cape Town

From long sandy stretches, to shores that hug the rugged coast, Cape Town has become world-famous for its stunning shoreline.  Beyond their beauty, Cape Town’s beaches have also been awarded Blue Flag status, meaning they meet strict criteria for safety, amenities, cleanliness and environmental standards. In fact, South Africa is the first country outside of Europe to win Blue Flag accreditation for its shores.

With an endless variety of activities available to beach-goers, Cape Town’s beaches offer swimming, surfing, SUP-ing or casual strolls along the shore. With the chance to catch a tan and a sighting of whales, dolphins and seals in the waves, every visitor should have a beach stop in their travel itinerary.

Muizenberg Beach

Listed on National Geographic’s ‘World’s 20 Best Surf Towns’, Muizenberg is a surfer’s paradise. It’s also the perfect stretch of sandy beach the whole family can enjoy. Brightly coloured beach huts are part of the charm, and you can book a surf and SUP lessons, or other adventures right on the beachfront. Main Street, which runs parallel to the shore, offers a variety of pre- or post-beach snacks. Don’t miss locals’ favourite, Lucky Fish and Chips for classic beach town fare.

• Address: The Pavilion, Beach Road, Cape Town, 7950
• Phone: +27 21 787 9140
• Website: www.muizenberg.info

Llandudno Beach

Llandudno is undoubtedly one of Cape Town’s most picturesque beaches. With white sands and boulders along the shore, this is the perfect setting for a day’s out or a simple beachside stroll. Bring a picnic and make a day of it, or hit the waves with some rented surf gear – the sea here is inviting enough for both. Framed by a dramatic mountain backdrop, this standout beach setting sets Llandudno apart from the other city seaside escapes.

• Address: Victoria Road, Llandudno, Cape Town, 7806
• Phone: +27 21 790 5673

Camps Bay Beach

With the Twelve Apostles mountain range on one side and the turquoise Atlantic on the other, Camps Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town – and one of the trendiest. While celebrities are known to hang out here, it’s also a great place for families. The sandy beach is wide and flat, and there is ample parking available. For pre- and post-beach session entertainment, find loads of restaurants and shops on the popular Victoria Road stretch that runs parallel to the shore.

• Address: Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005
• Phone: +21 21 465 2029

Clifton Beaches

Clifton is known as Cape Town’s St Tropez and its four beautiful beaches are a holidaymaker’s hotspot. Entrances are marked along Victoria Road, and take you down a steep set of stairs to the shoreline. Clifton’s beaches have toilets, changing rooms and umbrellas and deck chairs for rent. While all four beaches are easy to access and safe for swimming, Clifton 4^th is the perfect family beach and boasts Blue Flag status. Keep an eye out for the ice-cream sellers. They’ll bring a cooler of treats on offer right to your towel!

• Address: Victoria Road, Clifton, Cape Town, 8005
• Phone: +27 21 465 2029

Bloubergstrand Beach

With one of the most beautiful views of Table Mountain available from its shore, Blouberg Beach is worth a visit for the photo alone. But it is also a stretch of 25km of white sand that is ideal for a family outing. Adventure seekers will enjoy the renowned kite and board surfing here, while foodies will come for the seafood restaurants. Don’t miss a meal or glass of wine at On The Rocks, a local favourite with a beachside deck.

• Address: Bloubergstrand, Cape Town, 7441
• Phone: +27 (0)21 487 6800