South Africa’s coastal gem, Cape Town, is not just a cultural hub known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene, but also for its breathtaking beaches. Cape Town Beaches are some of the world’s most spectacular, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and sandy shores.
The Mother City, as Cape Town is affectionately known, offers a diverse range of seaside spots perfect for everyone from solitude seekers to surf enthusiasts. These stunning beaches dotting the city’s coastline cater to a wide array of preferences, from surfing to serene sunbathing.
Let’s embark on a virtual tour of the top 7 beaches you should put on your must-visit list during Cape Town Tours.

Clifton Beaches
Clifton’s four beaches are among the city’s prime spots. These beaches are divided into 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th beaches, each with its vibe. Cape Town Tours often include a stopover here, allowing visitors to enjoy beach games, picnics, and idyllic sunset views.

- Clifton 1st is the largest and offers sunbathing, socialising, and volleyball.
- Clifton 2nd attracts a younger crowd keen on beach sports.
- Clifton 3rd is a favourite amongst the local gay community.
- Clifton 4th is family-friendly, complete with kiosks and public amenities.
Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Renowned for four distinctive coves, ideal for sunbathing and picturesque sunsets.
- Parking: Apart from the MyCity bus stop opposite the beach, there is not much parking available.
- Facilities: Toilets are available at 4th Beach
- Pet Policy: Unfortunately, furry friends are not allowed in summer (November to March), Clifton 1st being the only exception.
- Food Delight: Dine with a view at ‘The Bungalow’, located on Victoria Road near Camps Bay.
- Water Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.
Pro Tip: Remember to bring warm clothing, as the Atlantic waters can be quite chilly!
Camps Bay Beach
Love chilling out? Then you’ll love Camps Bay Beach. Popular among locals and tourists, Camps Bay Beach is a quintessential feature of Cape Town Tours. It’s surrounded by mountains and palm trees and has cool cafes and fancy restaurants. Plus, the sunsets are really pretty.
Its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant beachside nightlife make it a crowd favourite. Enjoy a Cape Town Full-Day Tour lounging by the beach or trying some of the many water sports activities it offers.

Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Lively beach with nightlife, white sand, and turquoise waters.
- Parking: Available all along Victoria Road. Paid parking is available at the Promenade Mall. Also, MyCiti bus stops are present too.
- Facilities: Yes, there are public toilets near the tidal pool.
- Pet Policy: Not allowed in November -March from 9 am to 6 pm. They are permitted during the rest of the time (except at the tidal pool).
- Nearby Cocktail: Chinchilla’s rooftop is a great place to enjoy sundowners. They have a fantastic selection of drinks, along with sushi and a lively atmosphere. Additionally, you can also explore SurfShack, Caprice, or Firefly Cafe.
- Water Activities: Swimming, surfing, beach volleyball, and jet skiing.
Llandudno Beach
Llandudno Beach is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Surrounded by granite boulders and overlooked by mountains, this beach provides a peaceful retreat. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and a quiet swim. Remember, Llandudno is part of Famous Cape Town Tours but it’s a residential area, so respect the tranquillity.

Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Tranquil setting surrounded by granite boulders, offering solitude and peace.
- Parking: Limited parking in a small car park. If it gets full, find additional parking on surrounding residential streets.
- Facilities: Restrooms are provided.
- Pet Policy: Between November to March, from 9 am to 6 pm, dogs are not allowed. During the rest time, they can roam freely.
- Food Delight: Take a short drive to ‘Hout Bay Harbour Market’ for a foodie treat.
- Water Activities: Surfing, swimming, and boulder exploration.
Glen Beach
Glen Beach, nestled between Camps Bay and Clifton Beach, is a hidden gem. Famous among surfers for its powerful waves, it also offers a stunning view of the Twelve Apostles Mountain range. On your Cape Town Day Tours, take time to appreciate the sunset here; it’s truly spectacular.

Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Hidden gem with powerful waves, ideal for surfers and offering stunning views of the Twelve Apostles.
- Parking: Available on Victoria Road. MyCity bus stop is present just opposite.
- Facilities: Toilets are available.
- Pet Policy: Not allowed in November -March from 9 am to 6 pm. They are permitted during the rest of the time (except at the tidal pool).
- Nearby Cocktail: Chinchilla’s rooftop is a great place for sundowners. They have a fantastic selection of drinks, along with sushi and a lively atmosphere. Additionally, you can also explore SurfShack, Caprice, or Firefly Café.
- Water Activities: Surfing, bodyboarding, and paddleboarding.
Noordhoek Beach
Noordhoek Beach is an extensive, unspoiled stretch of white sand, popular for horse riding. This beach gives you an off-the-beaten-path experience, offering tranquillity and a sense of untouched beauty. It’s a perfect inclusion for your Cape Town Half-Day Tours if you fancy a tranquil escape.

Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Serene, unspoiled stretch of white sand, popular for horse riding and kite flying.
- Parking: There’s a spacious parking lot available at the beach entrance.
- Facilities: Yes, there are public toilets near the parking lot.
- Pet Policy: No, the beach is not dog friendly.
- Nearby Bite to Eat: ‘The Foodbarn’ offers delicious meals and is a short drive from the beach.
- Water Activities: Horse riding, swimming, and kite surfing.
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach, part of a Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach Private Day Tour, is famous for its penguin colony. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can get up close with African Penguins. The beach’s sheltered coves and intriguing rock formations are also worth exploring.

Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Home to a famous penguin colony, offering close encounters with African Penguins.
- Parking: Yes available. But, gets filled up quickly.
- Facilities: Yes, there are facilities available near the entrance.
- Pet Policy: No, dogs are not permitted to protect the Penguin colony.
- Nearby Bite to Eat: ‘The Seaforth Restaurant’ is located nearby, offering a fantastic seafood menu.
- Nearby ice cream: The café called Boulders Bites, located next to the parking lot, offers a delightful selection of soft-serve cones, along with a variety of coffee, bagels, and flatbreads.
- Water Activities: Penguin viewing, snorkelling, and exploring rock formations.
Bakoven Beach
Bakoven Beach, a less crowded alternative to Camps Bay Beach, is perfect for a quiet sunbathing session. Its secluded location and panoramic ocean views make it an enticing part of your Cape Town Tours. Remember to take a stroll to the nearby Beta Beach—it’s a photographer’s delight.

Key Takeaways:
- Highlights: Less crowded beach offering panoramic ocean views and a quiet atmosphere
- Parking: Limited parking is available. Two MyCity bus stops are present.
- Facilities: Toilets are available.
- Pet Policy: The beach is not dog-friendly.
- Nearby Bite to Eat: ‘Bootlegger Bakoven’ is a charming café located nearby, offering a range of breakfast and lunch options.
- Water Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing sunbathing.
Sun, Sand, Sea and Surf – Cape Town’s Alluring Anthem
In the end, Cape Town’s beaches are more than just stretches of sand. They are the city’s soul, each with its character and charm. From the penguin-occupied Boulders Beach to the surfer’s paradise at Llandudno, these seven beaches offer a slice of Cape Town’s diverse coastal splendour.
As you plan your visit to Mother City, ensure these picturesque locations are at the top of your Cape Town Tours. Get ready to soak up the sun, sand, and sea, and surf on your next visit to Cape Town.