A Comprehensive Guide to 20+ Beaches In and Near Cape Town: Blue Flag, Dog-Friendly and More

Cape Town, renowned for its breathtaking coastline, offers a diverse array of Blue Flag and dog-friendly beaches catering to every preference—from serene sunbathing spots to vibrant surfing hubs.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this comprehensive guide will introduce you to all the beaches in and near Cape Town, helping you find the perfect seaside destination for your next outing.

Comprehensive Guide to 20+ Beaches In and Near Cape Town

Atlantic Seaboard Beaches: Sunbathing, Scenic Views, Social Spots

Clifton Beaches (1st to 4th): Secluded Sunbathing Spots with Stunning Sunsets

Clifton comprises four adjacent beaches, each with its own vibe. All feature soft white sands and clear waters, making them popular for sunbathing and picnics. Facilities are limited, so it’s wise to bring your essentials.

• 1st Beach: Popular among surfers and dog walkers, offering a lively atmosphere.
• 2nd Beach: Attracts a younger crowd, including students and sports enthusiasts.
• 3rd Beach: Known for its LGBTQ+ friendly environment, providing a welcoming space.
• 4th Beach: A Blue Flag beach, ideal for families due to its cleanliness and calm waters.

Address: Victoria Road, Clifton, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Camps Bay Beach, Table Mountain Cableway

Camps Bay Beach: Beach Fun with Dining and Nightlife Nearby

Nestled along Victoria Road, Camps Bay Beach is famous for its lively vibe, backed by a bustling promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, and cocktail bars. It’s perfect for families and groups looking to enjoy sun, surf, and sand with easy access to nearby dining and nightlife. 

The beach provides striking views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, adding to its appeal. It’s also close to Clifton Beaches, so you can easily visit both in a day.

Address: Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Clifton Beaches, Twelve Apostles, Camps Bay Promenade (restaurants and cafes)

Llandudno Beach: Quiet Surfing Haven with Scenic Boulders

Llandudno Beach is a tranquil escape, surrounded by large granite boulders and set in the exclusive Llandudno residential area. Known for its consistent waves, it’s a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders seeking a peaceful atmosphere without the crowds. 

With no commercial amenities, the beach maintains its secluded charm. Parking is limited, so arriving early is a smart move. Close to the scenic Hout Bay, it’s a short drive from shops and restaurants in case you need supplies.

Address: Sunset Avenue, Llandudno, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive

Bakoven Beach: Sheltered Cove for Snorkeling and Tidal Pool Exploration

Located just south of Camps Bay, Bakoven Beach is a small, tucked-away cove with rocky outcrops, ideal for snorkeling and exploring tidal pools. It’s a favorite among locals for its calm and peaceful vibe, perfect for escaping the crowds. While there are no commercial facilities, its proximity to Camps Bay provides access to dining and shops when needed.

Address: Beta Road, Bakoven, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Camps Bay Beach, Table Mountain Nature Reserve

Sea Point Promenade and Beach: Family-Friendly Beach with Jogging Paths and Public Pools

Located in the vibrant Sea Point suburb, this urban beach is known for its scenic promenade, which is a hotspot for jogging, cycling, and leisurely strolls. Families love the public pools and playgrounds, as well as the open lawns perfect for picnicking. The area is close to the V&A Waterfront and Green Point Park, adding more variety for a full day of activities.

Address: Beach Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: V&A Waterfront, Green Point Park, Mouille Point

False Bay Beaches: Family-Friendly, Surfing, Penguins

Muizenberg Beach: Colorful Huts and Beginner-Friendly Surfing

Famous for its colorful beach huts and vibrant surfing culture, Muizenberg Beach features gentle waves ideal for beginner surfers. Surf schools and equipment rentals are readily available, making it easy to catch your first wave. The shallow waters and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great spot for a day out with the kids.

Address: Beach Road, Muizenberg, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Muizenberg Pavilion, Surfer’s Corner, Masque Theatre

Fish Hoek Beach: Calm Waters Perfect for Families and Kayaking

This long stretch of white sand boasts calm waters and safe swimming conditions, thanks to shark nets in place. It’s popular for kayaking and sailing, offering a bit of adventure on the water. Facilities include restaurants and changing rooms, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Address: Fish Hoek Beach, Beach Road, Fish Hoek, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Fish Hoek Valley Museum, Kalk Bay (shops and eateries)

St. James Beach: Safe Tidal Pools and Iconic Bathing Boxes

Known for its tidal pools and colorful Victorian-style bathing boxes, St. James Beach offers safe swimming in the tidal pool, making it ideal for families with young children. Parking is limited, so consider using public transport to get there.

Address: Main Road, St. James, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: St. James Walkway, Kalk Bay, Muizenberg

Kalk Bay Beach: Small Beach with Rock Pools and Local Shops

This small but charming beach is set near Kalk Bay’s working fishing harbor, offering a delightful mix of rock pools, quaint local shops, and seafood restaurants. The area exudes a laid-back, village-like atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely visit.

Address: Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay Theatre, Kalk Bay Shops and Cafés

Boulders Beach: Swim Alongside African Penguins

Home to a colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach provides a unique opportunity to swim near these delightful creatures. The sheltered beach with clear waters is perfect for a relaxing day. An entry fee is applicable, as it’s a conservation area.

Address: Kleintuin Road, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Simon’s Town Waterfront, Naval Museum, Seaforth Beach

West Coast Beaches: Water Sports, Mountain Views

Bloubergstrand Beach: Iconic Table Mountain Views and Kite Surfing

Bloubergstrand Beach is renowned for its iconic views of Table Mountain, making it a favorite spot for photographers and sightseers. The consistent winds attract kite surfers and windsurfers, creating a vibrant scene on the water. With long stretches of white sand, it’s perfect for leisurely walks. The area is dotted with numerous beachfront restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of dining options.

Address: Marine Drive, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Dolphin Beach, Kite Beach, Eden on the Bay Mall

Big Bay Beach: Water Sports and Stunning Sunsets

Favored by surfers and kiteboarders, Big Bay Beach offers excellent conditions for water sports enthusiasts. It’s family-friendly, featuring grassy picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets over the Atlantic, providing a picturesque end to the day. Facilities include shops and eateries, ensuring convenience during your visit.

Address: Otto Du Plessis Drive, Big Bay, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Eden on the Bay (shopping and dining), Bloubergstrand

Melkbosstrand Beach: Peaceful Strolls and Local Seafood Restaurants

For those seeking a quieter experience, Melkbosstrand Beach offers a village feel with its tranquil environment. It’s suitable for long walks and beachcombing, allowing you to unwind away from the crowds. The beach is less crowded, making it ideal for relaxation. Nearby, you’ll find local seafood restaurants to satisfy your culinary cravings.

Address: Beach Road, Melkbosstrand, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Melkbosstrand Golf Club, Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Koeberg Nature Reserve

Silwerstroomstrand: Blue Flag Beach with Tidal Pool and Picnic Areas

Located approximately 13 kilometers north of Melkbosstrand, Silwerstroomstrand is a Blue Flag beach known for its pristine conditions and excellent facilities. The beach features a tidal pool, making it ideal for safe swimming, especially for families with young children. Day visitors can enjoy picnic sites and braai (barbecue) areas, while holidaymakers have access to bungalows and a caravan park at the nearby resort. The beach is also popular for shore angling, particularly for Hottentot fish during January and February. For those who enjoy long walks, Silwerstroomstrand offers an unbroken stretch of sand extending for three kilometers.

Address: Silwerstroom Road, Silwerstroomstrand, Western Cape
Nearby Attractions: Koeberg Nature Reserve, Atlantis

Southern Peninsula Beaches: Remote, Rugged, Surfing

Noordhoek Beach: Expansive Sand for Horse Riding and Scenic Walks

An expansive stretch of unspoiled white sand, Noordhoek Beach is perfect for horse riding and long walks. While the strong currents make it unsuitable for swimming, the scenic views of Chapman’s Peak are breathtaking.

Address: Beach Road, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point Vineyards, Noordhoek Farm Village

Kommetjie Beach: Rustic Charm and Surfing with Rock Pools

Known for excellent surfing conditions, Kommetjie Beach exudes rustic charm with its laid-back atmosphere. The area features rock pools and tidal pools for exploration. Facilities are limited, so it’s wise to plan ahead.

Address: Beach Road, Kommetjie, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Slangkop Lighthouse, Imhoff Farm, Long Beach

Scarborough Beach: Secluded Kite Surfing Spot in Conservation Village

This secluded beach is renowned for its natural beauty and is popular among kite surfers and windsurfers. Adjacent to a conservation village, it offers a tranquil setting. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so exercise caution when visiting.

Address: Beach Road, Scarborough, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Cape Point Nature Reserve, Misty Cliffs, Redhill

Misty Cliffs Beach: Remote, Dramatic Scenery for Experienced Surfers

A remote beach with dramatic scenery, Misty Cliffs is favored by experienced surfers. Due to strong currents, it’s not ideal for swimming. Access and facilities are limited, making it a spot for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Address: Misty Cliffs Road, Scarborough, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Scarborough Beach, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Slangkop Lighthouse

Eastern Suburbs Beaches: Family-Friendly, Calm Waters

Strand Beach: Family-Friendly with Paddleboarding and Volleyball

Strand Beach features a long stretch of sandy shoreline with warm waters, making it ideal for families. The shallow swimming areas are perfect for children. Facilities include restaurants, shops, and ample parking. It’s a popular spot for paddleboarding, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.

Address: Beach Road, Strand, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Strand Golf Club, Waterworld Strand, Cheetah Outreach

Harmony Park Beach: Picnic Areas and Quiet Tidal Pool

This smaller beach offers picnic areas and shaded spots, providing a great setting for family outings. It features a tidal pool for safe swimming, making it ideal for children. The beach is less crowded, offering a quieter experience.

Address: Harmony Park, Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Blue Rock Adventure Park, Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum, Strand Beach

Gordon’s Bay Beach: Sheltered Swimming and Mountain Views

Gordon’s Bay Beach is a quaint, sheltered spot with calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The picturesque setting includes stunning mountain views. Facilities nearby include cafes and shops, adding to the convenience of your visit.

Address: Beach Road, Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Harbour Island, Steenbras Dam, Bikini Beach

Bikini Beach: Calm Waters and Lively Student Atmosphere

Situated in Gordon’s Bay, Bikini Beach is a small, sheltered beach renowned for its calm waters and Blue Flag status. The beach is popular among students from the nearby University of Stellenbosch, contributing to its lively atmosphere. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Facilities are limited, so it’s advisable to bring your own essentials. The beach’s location offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and False Bay, adding to its appeal.

Address: Beach Road, Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Gordon’s Bay Harbour, Steenbras River Gorge, Crystal Pools Hiking Trail

Northern Suburbs Beaches: Quiet, Scenic, Relaxation

Milnerton Beach: Table Mountain Views and Windsurfing

Milnerton Beach provides scenic views of Table Mountain and the city skyline, making it a favorite among photographers and sightseers. The beach is popular for windsurfing and paddleboarding, thanks to favorable wind conditions. A nearby lagoon adds to the picturesque landscape, offering opportunities for canoeing and bird-watching. The area is close to the Milnerton Golf Club and various restaurants, providing options for dining and leisure.

Address: Marine Drive, Milnerton, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Milnerton Golf Club, Woodbridge Island, Lagoon Beach

Lagoon Beach: Long Stretches for Relaxation and Scenic Walks

Lagoon Beach features a long stretch of sandy shoreline with Table Mountain as a backdrop, perfect for leisurely walks and beachcombing. It’s a quieter spot with fewer crowds, ideal for relaxation. The beach is accessible from nearby hotels and cafes, making it convenient for visitors seeking a peaceful seaside experience.

Address: Lagoon Gate Drive, Milnerton, Cape Town
Nearby Attractions: Milnerton Lagoon, Milnerton Flea Market, Century City

Beach Activities and Amenities

Swimming and Sunbathing

For relaxation or a refreshing swim, beaches like Camps Bay, Clifton, and Muizenberg are excellent choices. These family-friendly spots have calm waters suitable for all ages.

Surfing and Kiteboarding

Cape Town is a prime destination for surfing and kiteboarding. Muizenberg Beach is ideal for beginners, while Big Bay offers conditions that more experienced surfers will love. Kiteboarding hotspots include Bloubergstrand and Big Bay.

Snorkeling and Diving

For snorkeling near penguins, Boulders Beach offers an unforgettable experience. St. James and Kalk Bay have tidal pools perfect for exploring marine life close to shore.

Picnic and Braai (Barbecue) Spots

Fish Hoek and Harmony Park are picnic-friendly, with ample spaces to enjoy a meal outdoors. Select beaches also offer braai areas for a traditional South African barbecue.

Walking and Hiking Trails

Noordhoek Beach is perfect for scenic beach walks, and trails around Table Mountain are accessible from nearby beaches for those looking to explore further.

Which Cape Town Beaches Allow Dogs Off-Leash?

Cape Town has a range of beautiful beaches where dogs are welcome to roam freely without a leash at specific times. These beaches are often popular with dog owners and offer scenic, open spaces for pets to enjoy:

1. Clifton 1st Beach – Dogs are allowed off-leash, making it a great spot for relaxed, sandy strolls.
2. Bakoven Beach – This small, quiet beach permits dogs off-leash.
3. Noordhoek Beach – Known for its expansive sands, Noordhoek Beach is ideal for off-leash play.
4. Kommetjie Beach – A popular spot for dog owners, allowing dogs off-leash all day.
5. Scarborough Beach – Dogs are welcome off-leash on this scenic beach in the conservation village.
6. Misty Cliffs Beach – Dogs are permitted off-leash, and it’s a favourite among pet owners seeking solitude.

Which Cape Town Beaches Allow Dogs On-Leash?

Many Cape Town beaches allow dogs on a leash, particularly at off-peak times, offering a balance between a safe environment for everyone and an enjoyable experience for pets:

1. Sea Point Promenade – Dogs are allowed on-leash along this scenic walkway.
2. St. James Beach – On-leash dogs are welcome early and late in the day.
3. Kalk Bay Beach – A charming beach where dogs are permitted on-leash during off-peak times.
4. Bloubergstrand Beach – On-leash dogs are allowed before 9 am and after 6 pm.
5. Big Bay Beach – Leashed dogs are welcome in the early morning and evening.
6. Strand Beach – Dogs are allowed on-leash during off-peak hours.
7. Harmony Park Beach – A quieter beach where dogs are welcome on-leash in off-peak times.
8. Gordon’s Bay Beach – Leashed dogs are allowed before 9 am and after 6 pm.
9. Milnerton Beach – Dogs are permitted on-leash early and late in the day.
10. Lagoon Beach – Leashed dogs are welcome before 9 am and after 6 pm.

Which Beaches in Cape Town Have Blue Flag Status?

Cape Town has 10 Blue Flag Beaches.

1. Clifton 4th Beach
2. Camps Bay Beach
3. Melkbosstrand Beach
4. Llandudno Beach
5. Muizenberg Beach
6. Fish Hoek Beach
7. Silwerstroomstrand
8. Bikini Beach
9. Mnandi Beach
10. Strandfontein Beach

What is a Blue Flag beach?

A Blue Flag beach meets high international standards for water quality, safety, environmental education, and services. These beaches are carefully managed to offer an eco-friendly experience.

Beach Safety and Environmental Considerations

Shark Safety and Precautions

False Bay beaches have shark spotters and net systems. Always follow local advice and guidelines for safe swimming.

Rip Currents and Swimming Safety

Beaches like Llandudno and Noordhoek have strong currents, so swim with caution. Popular beaches like Camps Bay and Fish Hoek have lifeguards on duty.

Environmental Conservation Efforts

Support conservation efforts at Boulders Beach, which helps protect the penguin habitat. Follow beach regulations to preserve local wildlife and ecosystems.

Beach Cleanliness and Waste Management

Most Cape Town beaches are well-maintained, so help keep them clean by disposing of waste in designated bins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Beaches In and Near Cape Town

Which Cape Town beach is best for families with young children?

Beaches like Muizenberg, Fish Hoek, and Camps Bay are family-friendly with calm waters, facilities, and lifeguards on duty. These beaches also offer shallow swimming areas ideal for kids.

Are there shark safety measures at Cape Town beaches?

Yes, many False Bay beaches, like Fish Hoek and Muizenberg, have shark spotters and net systems. Follow local guidelines and pay attention to safety flags and spotter warnings.

Where can I go kiteboarding in Cape Town?

Bloubergstrand and Big Bay are the top beaches for kiteboarding, known for their steady winds and open space, attracting both locals and international kiteboarding enthusiasts.

Is it possible to snorkel with penguins in Cape Town?

Yes, Boulders Beach offers a unique snorkeling experience near African penguins. Remember, Boulders Beach is a conservation area, so an entry fee is required.

Can I have a picnic or braai (barbecue) at Cape Town beaches?

Fish Hoek and Harmony Park are great for picnics, while some beaches offer designated braai areas. Check local regulations for specific beach restrictions.

What beaches are best for surfing in Cape Town?

Muizenberg Beach is great for beginners, while Big Bay and Kommetjie offer more challenging waves for experienced surfers. The water can be chilly, so a wetsuit is recommended.

Are there hiking trails near Cape Town beaches?

Yes, Table Mountain trails are accessible from nearby beaches, and Noordhoek Beach is ideal for scenic beach walks. Many beaches offer pathways with stunning views of the coastline.

What should I bring to beaches with limited facilities?

Beaches like Llandudno and Bakoven have limited amenities, so pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and any recreational gear you may need.

Are Cape Town beaches clean and environmentally protected?

Most beaches are well-maintained, with regular cleanups and waste management services. Conservation areas, like Boulders Beach, are protected, so visitors should dispose of waste responsibly.

Which beaches offer iconic views of Table Mountain?

Milnerton Beach, Bloubergstrand, and Lagoon Beach all offer stunning views of Table Mountain and the city skyline, making them popular for photos and scenic beach walks.