The Best Secret Beaches in Cape Town

With temperatures soaring for the next few months, and Cape Town’s headliner beaches buzzing, it’s a good time to head to the off-the-main-drag beaches – stunning stretches of honeyed sand or cool coves that are likely to be uncrowded, even on a sunny weekend in January. Pack some snacks and wear comfortable shoes (there might be some boulder-hopping involved). The reward: your very own patch of sand and a soothing soundtrack of gently lapping waves and seagull cries. Paradise is a short drive away…

Important note The beaches on this list are pristine and unspoilt, quiet and peaceful – and should be kept that way. Please be respectful: don’t pitch up in large groups for a party, blaring loud music. Take care of the environment and don’t leave litter behind. Do not go alone when visiting secluded and remote areas, including beaches. Also be especially vigilant at Cape Point, as the baboons can be aggressive. Visit beaches in daylight hours, be aware of the tides, and note that alcohol is not permitted and swimming in the sea after dark is not advisable.

Windmill Beach

The lesser-known (free) sibling of Boulders, and similar in appearance, it’s tucked away behind the golf course in Simon’s Town, surrounded by granite boulders that make for a conveniently sheltered swimming area.
Why we love it A colourful array of sea life dwells among the rocks, and since it’s around the corner from the famous penguin colony, you’re bound to see some visitors of the flippered variety. The water is shallow and sheltered by the boulders, making for a safe swimming area that kids love. There is also some shade provided by trees.
Secret pleasures Great for swimming and picnicking. Since the reef contains such a diversity of marine life, it’s a popular spot for snorkelling and diving (ideal for novices), and it’s a good spot to launch a kayak. To stretch your legs and see more penguins (maybe Cape clawless otters too), take a stroll along Burgher’s Walk, which follows the coast to Boulders parking lot.
Best time to visit On a calm day, when there’s no swell. It’s relatively sheltered from the wind but can get rough when there’s a strong southeaster.
Where it’s hidden Accessed via Bellevue Road, off the M4 (which goes to Boulders); turn right into Links Crescent and follow it to the end.

Bakoven (Beta and Barley)

Bakoven has a series of beautiful coves that, because of their size, cannot hold the crowds that neighbouring Camps Bay does. There are two idyllic spots hidden between the boulders – Beta Beach and Barley Beach (aka Barley Beach or Robyn’s Beach) – worth seeking out. Picture a lick of sand strewn with granite boulders, washed by clear waters with no waves to speak of.
Why we love it It’s like having your own private paradise for the day. They’re also more sheltered from the wind, with calm (if icy) waters, and have stunning views of Camps Bay, Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles – not to mention the sunset.
Secret pleasures Just chilling with peace and quiet, sunbathing, boulder-hopping and picnicking. The still water is good for snorkelling, kayaking or SUPing.
Best time to visit Low tide for maximum beach space.
Where it’s hidden From Victoria Road (M6), turn right into Beta Road, park and follow the footpath between the houses to the beach. To reach Barley Beach, a scenic coastal walk leads from Camps Bay tidal pool (there is no road access). There are two MyCity bus stops nearby (Bakoven and Barley Bay).

Cosy Beach

On the coastal road between Camps Bay and Llandudno, Oudekraal is a well-known and popular spot. Cosy Beach is its less-frequented “little sister”, offering the same stunning scenery and waters but without the entry fee and braai facilities.
Why we love it It feels like a magical discovery right from the start – from the busy road, you head down a steep wooden staircase tucked alongside the concrete embankment and onto golden sands with a magnificent view. This stretch of the Atlantic coastline is pristine, and the boulders ensure calmer waters in this little cove. Trees line the back of the beach, which provides some shade; it’s also sheltered from the wind.
Secret pleasures Picnicking, dipping in the crystal-clear waters and exploring the maze of boulders (they stretch out deep into the water, so a kayak is good to use for exploring too). There is also a wooden stepped walkway over the boulders to a second secret beach.
Best time to visit At low tide; come early to grab your spot.
Where it’s hidden On Victoria Road out of Camps Bay; after about 4km you will spot the sign and small parking area. (If you pass the 12 Apostles Hotel, you’ve gone too far.)

Water’s Edge

Off the beaten track in Simon’s Town, this delightful, secluded bay offers stunning views and a largely private day at the beach in one of Cape Town’s most popular seaside locations.
Why we love it Nestled between Seaforth and Boulders Beaches, which tend to draw the crowds, it remains relatively undiscovered… In fact, most people don’t even know it exists! It is also sheltered from the wind.
Secret pleasures Rock pools inhabited by starfish, sea anemones, molluscs and other interesting creatures, as well as shade-providing trees and granite boulders – and if you’re lucky, some penguins too. It makes for wonderful picnicking, safe swimming and snorkelling, with great exploration and castle-building opportunities for the little ones.
Best time to visit When the southeaster is whipping up the other beaches in False Bay.
Where it’s hidden From Seaforth Beach parking lot, follow the road towards the Boulders Penguin Colony, then turn off through the green gate on your left.

Sunset Beach

There’s a good reason for its name: if you fancy long strolls along a white-sand shore, especially at day’s end, get your fill here. It also has one of the best vantage points for that classic postcard-perfect view of Table Mountain. Best of all, your dog is welcome to join you.
Why we love it A lesser-known alternative to Melkbos and Blouberg’s Big Bay, hidden in an upmarket suburb, away from the day-tripping hordes.
Secret pleasures Not only for sunset, it’s good for picnicking, sunbathing, swimming (if you can do ice-cold water) and bodyboarding. It’s also rated as the third best windsurfing spot in the world (after Hawaii and New Zealand).
Best time to visit Anytime the weather’s good, and be sure to stay for the spectacular sunset.
Where it’s hidden Between Milnerton and Table View. Turn left into Ocean Way off the R27, then into Bay Beach Avenue; there are parking lots at the end of any of the five side streets leading to the shore.

Danger Beach

Muizenberg can get a tad busy, but if you head over to St James, you’ll find this local favourite. It’s not visible from the main road, only to train passengers – who no doubt gaze with envy at the beach bums on their daily commute! Yes, the name is a little off-putting – and the sea can be quite feisty, best left to surfers – but it’s something a little different, and dog-friendly.
Why we love it It’s a long slither of rock-dotted white sand (space for beach games), with glorious views across False Bay. Stick to the shallows if you want a dip – there is quite a strong backwash. Or head over to the tidal pools at St James or Dalebrook for a proper swim.
Secret pleasures Building sandcastles, chilling and rock-pool exploring. The low wall backing the railway line is handy for something to lean against while you read that trashy beach novel. Plus sunrise: this east-facing beach is a goodie for starting the day – including an amble along the 1.5km St James Walkway that heads to Surfers Corner.
Best time to visit For maximum rays, mornings are best (the sun disappears earlier in the day on this side of the mountain).
Where it’s hidden Duck through the subway at St James Station and head south along the grassy path. Or the direct entrance to the beach is just after the tennis courts on Main Road.

Miller’s Point

Just beyond Simon’s Town, en route to Cape Point, this beautiful and remote stretch of coastline urges you to break your journey. It’s divided into two sections: the first turn-off leads to a caravan park and Black Marlin restaurant; the next one leads to Rumbly Bay, with its boat-launching sites, a boulder-dotted beach and a stunning tidal pool. Be careful when parking as there are baboons in the area – don’t approach or feed them.
Why we love it It feels wild, with incredible views across the rocky bay, but also civilised, with changing rooms and a grassed picnic/braai area. It’s also a great spot for kayaking, surf skis, scuba-diving and snorkelling…
Secret pleasures Swimming in clear, calm water followed by basking in the sun on flat boulders. Launching into the huge tidal pool via the rock slide is a lot of fun for kids. The coastline is good for rock-pooling and exploring – head south from the tidal pool to find a boulder-strewn beach and plenty of natural tidal pools.
Bonus Just before you reach Miller’s Point, there are two smaller beaches and rocky coves worth a look: Frank’s/Froggy Pond and Fisherman’s Beach, with the same attractions. Dogs on leads are allowed at these two.
Cost R22 (adults); R7 (children) on weekends and during peak season
Where it’s hidden About 5km from Simon’s Town on the M4, it’s signposted on the left. Once through the gate, take the road on the left to the end.

Smitswinkel Bay

Not visible from the road to people whizzing past en route to Cape Point, this little hamlet is mostly frequented by the families lucky enough to own one of the houses, and by trek-fishermen and scuba divers. It’s a long hike down to the beach – and an even longer, steeper hike back up at the end of the day! And you have to bring everything you need with you, including water.
Why we love it It’s unspoilt and sheltered from the southeaster, with powdery soft sand, good swimming (with waves for bodysurfing), and rock pools and little caves to explore at low tide.
Secret pleasures It’s a simple, old-fashioned day at the beach – no shops, no cellphone or WiFi reception, no traffic… just beach bats, frisbees, a picnic basket, a book to read, snorkelling gear and blissful scenery. For divers, there are five wrecks in the bay, deliberately sunk to create a reef filled with colourful marine life.
Best time to visit Come early, and time it as the tide’s going out.
Where it’s hidden About 20km out of Simon’s Town on the M44, just before you go round the corner to Cape Point Nature Reserve, pull in at the signed parking area/viewsite. Then follow the zigzag path down the cliffside, about 20 minutes’ walk.

Scarborough

As it’s a bit of a drive from the city, this Atlantic Ocean beach is clear of crowds and visited only by locals and surfers (or the occasional celebrity chef looking for a place to pick mussels and coastal foragers on a Veld + Sea excursion).
Why we love it The long stretch of pristine white sand fringing turquoise waters, against a wild mountain backdrop, is a vision of idyllic seclusion and coastal beauty – the residents of this village take great care of their environment. Plus your pooch gets to enjoy it too. (As the beach is part of Table Mountain National Park, dog-walkers require a Level 1 My Activity permit, which costs R403 for the year.)
Secret pleasures Fascinating rock pools for exploring, the luxury of space to play, and an ideal spot for windsurfing and kite-flying thanks to the strong winds (though perhaps not so great for picnics). Be cautious if taking a dip, as the sea is prone to rip currents. If you want to pick mussels, be sure to get a permit (R94) from the Post Office.
Best time to visit Any time the weather’s good. Be sure to check the wind forecasts.
Contact 021 712 7471 (My Activity permits)
Where it’s hidden Off the Main Road (M65) in Scarborough; turn into Camel Rock Road and head to the parking lot at the end.

Cape Point Beaches

Do you speak blue? No? After spending a day on the crescent-shaped slice of paradise that is Buffels Bay Beach, you’ll be fluent in the entire spectrum! We’re talking turquoise, cobalt, navy, ultramarine, electric and azure. This beach is on the “calmer” eastern side of the Point, so this is the one to head to for safe swimming. There is also a tidal pool and lawns (with braai and picnic spots), making this rhapsody in blue well worth the drive and entrance fee. Plus there are rock pools to explore, and a short hike between rocky shoreline and fynbos-clad cliffs to Antoniesgat.
Find it Some 9km from the entrance of the reserve, take the Buffels Bay turn-off to the left.

Cape Point has a fine selection of other quiet, remote beach gems – perfect for strolling, picnicking, birdwatching and photography. Due to their seclusion and riptides, proper swimming is not recommended at these, but you can certainly wade a little in the pristine waters. 

• Platboom is our top pick for the wildest, most unspoilt of all. Access runs past Dias Cross, as well as via a north-south hike from Gifkommetjie (a 4km route). With coastal views and surrounding fynbos and fauna (including the occasional ostrich and baboon), this expanse of sand on the western side of the Point is largely deserted, making it one of Cape Town’s most uncharted beaches. There are chalk-white dunes and some rocky outcrops to explore; it’s also great for kite- and windsurfing (though strictly for the pros).
  Find it Some 4.9km from the heart of the reserve – after passing the Buffels Bay turn-off, take the next turn right to Platboom Beach/Dias Beacon.
• Dias Beach, one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches, is still a secret unlocked by only a select few of the reserve’s numerous daily visitors. Perhaps the reason it remains largely undisturbed is thanks to the 20-minute walk down a steep set of wooden stairs. For the stunning views alone, it’s worth it, as Dias will render you breathless in the best possible way! It is literally at the tip of Cape Point (on the western side) and is encircled by dramatic cliffs and wild waves. You will feel exhilarated and truly alive as you stand on its unspoilt shore and gaze at the crashing surf, towering crags and sheer beauty.
  Find it Follow the gravel footpath from the main car park at Cape Point, which then swings right and becomes a wooden boardwalk.
• Maclear Beach lies on the other side of the Cape of Good Hope promontory from Dias Beach (the official “Cape of Good Hope” viewpoint is a short walk away). It feels like standing on the edge of the world with nothing but sea, sky and horizon. No wonder that, years ago, astronomer Sir Thomas Maclear (after whom the beach is named) would bundle his family into the horse-and-cart on Sundays and travel all the way from Observatory just to picnic here. There are rock pools to explore (best at low tide), plus excellent scuba-diving and fishing for crayfish, yellowtail and more (permits required).
  Find it After passing the Buffels Bay and Platboom turn-offs on the main road through the reserve, the next turn right leads to Maclear.
• Olifantsbos is a smaller beach edged by fynbos, tucked away in the northwestern part of the reserve, and offers the chance to discover at least three shipwrecks (proof of the ferocity of the infamous Cape of Storms) along one of the well-marked trails. A nearby shallow lagoon draws a profusion of coastal birdlife, and there’s the occasional bontebok sighting too. Apart from delightful beach walks along its pristine shoreline, the surfing’s also great. And it even has its own self-catering cottage just metres from the beach. (Booking is via SANParks.)
  Find it Take the first turn-off right after the reserve entrance (into Link Road) and follow it to the sea.

Best time to visit 6am – 6pm (October to March); 7am – 5pm (April – September)
Be sure to check the wind forecasts.
Good to know Keep an eye out for baboons – do not feed or approach them, and keep your own food safe and out of sight. You can grab snacks, drinks or picnic stuff at the Food Shop at Cape Point. Alternately, the Two Oceans Restaurant serves up seafood with stunning, cliff’s-edge views.
Cost Cape Point Nature Reserve entry fees (cashless)
SA citizens: R110 (adult); R55 (child under 12 years)
SADC: R225 (adult); R115 (child)
International: R515 (adult); R250 (child)
Contact 021 780 9200 (weekdays)
021 780 9204 (visitor centre)
086 110 6417 (emergency number)

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