The Best Secret Beaches in Cape Town

With temperatures soaring for the next few months, it’s a good time to head to one of the Cape’s off-the-main-drag beaches – stunning stretches of honeyed sand or cool coves that may be relatively uncrowded, even on a sunny weekend in January. Consider packing a picnic and wear comfortable shoes (as there might be some rock clambering to get there). The reward: your very own patch of sand and a soothing soundtrack of gently lapping waves. Paradise is a short drive away…

Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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 exploring secluded and remote areas, including beaches, as crime and accidents do happen. 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 swimming in the sea after dark is not advisable and alcohol is not permitted.

Platboom

Cape Point offers a fine selection of secluded and remote beaches, but Platboom (Afrikaans for “flat tree”,but referring to a flat-bottomed boat) is certainly our top pick for the wildest, most unspoilt one in the region. Access runs past Dias Cross, though some recommend the north-south hike from Gifkommetjie (a 4km route). With coastal views and surrounding fynbos and fauna (including the occasional ostrich and baboon), this white expanse of sand on the western side of the Point is largely deserted, making it one of Cape Town’s most unchartered beaches.
Why we love it There are chalk-white dunes and some rocky outcrops to explore, but it’s also ideal for long, undisturbed strolls along the amazing shoreline.
Secret pleasures It’s great for kite- and windsurfing, as it’s very exposed – though this is strictly for the pros. Due to its seclusion, proper swimming is not recommended, but you can certainly wade a little in these pristine Atlantic waters! It’s perfect for birdwatching, photography, beach strolls and picnicking – just don’t feed Cape Point’s infamous chacma baboons.
Best time to visit 6am – 6pm (October to March); 7am – 5pm (April – September). Although the nature reserve is open all year, spring and summer are best for the fairer weather.
Cost Cape Point Nature Reserve entry fees
SA citizens: R90 (adults); R45 (children)
SADC: R180 (adults); R90 (children)
International: R360 (adults); R180 (children)
Contact 021 780 9204, info@capepoint.co.za
086 110 6417 (emergency number)
Where it’s hidden Some 4.9km from the heart of Cape Point Nature Reserve (after passing the Buffels Bay turn-off, take the next turn right to Platboom Beach/Dias Beacon).

Bakoven (Beta and Bali)

Jenna Robinson Child

Bakoven has a series of coves and pools that, due to their small size, cannot hold the crowds that neighbouring Camps Bay does. There are two idyllic spots hidden between the boulders – Beta Beach and Bali Beach (also known as Robyn’s Beach) – worth seeking out.
Why we love it They truly feel like a secret, your own private paradise for the day. They’re also more sheltered from the wind, with calm 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.
Best time to visit Low tide is best for maximum beach space.
Cost Free
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 Bali Beach, it’s best to walk along the coast from Camps Bay tidal pool (there is no road access).

Preekstoel

The West Coast is a land of flourishing fynbos reserves, peaceful fishing villages and pristine beaches, including the sandy shores of Kraalbaai in the West Coast National Park on the Langebaan Lagoon. This part of the beach is named for the preekstoel (preacher’s pulpit in Afrikaans), a rock formation that juts out of the shallows.
Why we love it For the long 25km stretch of beach, pressed up against rugged rock formations, and the calm lagoon waters in every blue imaginable. To add to the mystique, on the ocean side at nearby Tsaarsbank, there’s a 1.8km trail leading to a rusty old shipwreck.
Secret pleasures The warmer lagoon waters are suitable for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, and the length of the beach makes it ideal for a long walk. Though braaing on the beach is not permitted, there is a braai and picnic spot nearby (it’s best to come early to get one of these). Kraalbaai is also the home of the famed houseboats.
Best time to visit 7am – 7pm (September to March); 7am – 6pm (April to August). In spring, this region comes alive with colourful wild flowers.
Cost West Coast National Park tariffs (excluding August and September)
SA citizens: R70 (adults); R35 (children)
SADC and international: R105 (adults); R52 (children)
Contact 022 772 2144, Mbatani@sanparks.org or reservations@sanparks.org
072 873 6453 (emergency number)
Where it’s hidden Off the R27 between Yzerfontein and Langebaan; it’s 21.3km from the park entrance gate to Kraalbaai.

Olifantsbos

This small beach tucked away on the north-western side of the Cape Point Nature Reserve is edged by wild fynbos, and offers the chance to discover at least three shipwrecks, which bear testament to the ferocity of the infamous Cape of Storms. It is also a marine protected area and has a nearby shallow lagoon, which draws wonderful coastal birdlife to the area.
Why we love it Not only is it one of Cape Point’s best-kept secrets, it even has its own secluded, self-catering cottage just metres from the beach. (Booking in advance is essential.)
Secret pleasures Great birdwatching (and sometimes the occasional bontebok sighting too), several well-marked trails (including the Shipwreck and Sirkelsvlei hikes), and delightful beach walks along its pristine shoreline. Surfing is also great here, especially when the tide’s coming in and the southeaster is blowing.
Best time to visit 6am – 6pm (October to March); 7am – 5pm (April – September)
Cost Cape Point Nature Reserve entry fees
SA citizens: R90 (adults); R45 (children)
SADC: R180 (adults); R90 (children)
International: R360 (adults); R180 (children)
Contact 021 780 9204, info@capepoint.co.za
086 110 6417 (emergency number)
Where it’s hidden Take the first turn-off right after the reserve entrance (into Link Road) and follow it to the sea.

Danger Beach

Stacey Richards

Muizenberg Beach 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.
Why we love it It’s a long slither of rock-dotted white sand, with a railway line right behind it (the beach literally rumbles when the train comes past) and glorious views across False Bay. Stick to the shallows if you want to get wet – there is quite a strong backwash. Or head over to the tidal pools at St James or Dalebrook for a proper swim.
Secret pleasures Beachcombing, building sandcastles, chilling and rock-pool exploring. The low wall backing the railway line is handy if you want something to lean against while you read that trashy beach novel, or an elevated perch to survey the surroundings. Plus sunrise: while most of the beaches we’ve listed are sunset specials, this east-facing one’s a goodie for starting the day – amble along the 1.5km St James Walkway that starts at Surfers Corner.
Best time to visit When the weather’s good and the sea is calm. Note that the sun disappears earlier in the day on this side of the mountain, so for maximum rays, mornings are best.
Cost Free.
Where it’s hidden Duck through the subway at St James Station, dodge the crowds at the tidal pool, pass the iconic beach huts, and head south along the grassy path.

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 is pristine, and the boulders here ensure calmer waters in this little cove. Trees line the back of the beach, which provide 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).
Best time to visit Come early to grab your spot.
Cost Free
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.)

Maclear Beach

Natalie Soares

This quiet, isolated beach is yet another Cape Point gem, reached by following one of two fynbos-lined footpaths. One of the most secluded beaches around, it lies on the other side of the Cape of Good Hope promontory from Diaz Beach, meaning it literally also sits pretty near Africa’s most southwesterly point. As with many of the reserve’s beaches, this is more of a wade-in-the-water than swimming beach.
Why we love it The views are truly spectacular – like being on the edge of the world with nothing but sea, sky and horizon. It’s 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 Sunday mornings and travel all the way from Observatory just to picnic here.
Secret pleasures Exploring rock pools, picnicking, excellent diving, as well as fishing for crayfish, yellowtail and more (permits required). The Cape of Good Hope viewpoint is a short walk away.
Best time to visit 6am – 6pm (October to March); 7am – 5pm (April – September). It’s best at low tide, when the rock pools are at their best and there’s more beach to enjoy.
Cost Cape Point Nature Reserve entry fees
SA citizens: R90 (adults); R45 (children)
SADC: R180 (adults); R90 (children)
International: R360 (adults); R180 (children)
Contact 021 780 9204, info@capepoint.co.za
086 110 6417 (emergency number)
Where it’s hidden At the south-westerly edge of Cape Point Nature Reserve (after passing the Buffels Bay and Platboom turn-offs on the main road through the reserve, the next turn right leads to Maclear).

Water’s Edge

Christoph

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 Lying 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, you might spot 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 Whenever the weather’s good, and especially if the southeaster is whipping up the other beaches in False Bay.
Cost Free
Where it’s hidden From Seaforth Beach parking lot, follow the paved pathway past the back of the restaurant and go through a wooden gate on your left.

Queen’s Beach

Pinterest, Pat Ladds

Several small beaches and rock pools line the Sea Point Promenade – while most are fairly exposed to passersby, and quite busy, Queen’s Beach is a little off the beaten path. It’s the epitome of a city beach, close to restaurants and other attractions, and easily accessible.
Why we love it It’s sheltered from the wind and offers an exciting environment to explore for curious kids. There’s a shallow gully between the rocks to take safe dips to cool down.
Secret pleasures Starfish-filled pools, beautiful shells to collect and time out for sunbathing and reading.
Best time to visit Any time the weather’s good. Lingering from late afternoon provides lovely sunset views. Note: the skateboarders of Promenade Mondays gather in the parking lot on Mondays from 5.30pm to skate en masse along the prom to Three Anchor Bay.
Cost Free
Where it’s hidden Five minutes’ walk from the Pavilion Pools; there is a parking lot right at the beach, as well as a MyCiti bus stop.

Windmill Beach

Nicky Good

The lesser-known 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, especially if a few penguins happen to flop by. There is also some shade provided by trees.
Secret pleasures Great for swimming, snorkelling and picnicking. Since the reef contains such a diversity of marine life, it’s a popular diving spot (ideal for novices), and it’s a good spot to launch a kayak. To stretch your legs and see more penguins (and possibly Cape clawless otters), 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 southeaster.
Cost Free
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.

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. 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. It’s one of the best vantage points for that classic postcard-perfect view of Table Mountain.
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.
Cost Free
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 sea.

Scarborough

As it’s a bit of a drive from the city, this Atlantic Ocean beach is clear of crowds and visited only by the locals and surfers (or the occasional celebrity chef looking for a place to pick mussels).
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 locals take great care of their environment. Plus your pooch gets to enjoy it too. (As the beach falls within Table Mountain National Park, dog-walkers require a Level 1 My Activity permit, which costs R320.)
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 (R57) from the Post Office.
Best time to visit Any time the weather’s good. Be sure to check the wind forecasts.
Cost Free
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.

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 south-easter, 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 real, good old-fashioned day at the beach – no shops, no cellphone or WiFi reception, no crowds or traffic… just the simple amusements of 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.
Cost Free
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.

Buffels Bay Beach

Probably the most popular of the Cape Point beaches, especially for family days out, it’s still worth heading for to escape the False Bay hordes on a hot day. This half-moon bay is on the “calmer” eastern side of the point, so the swimming is top-notch too. You might even be fortunate to be joined by a surfing seal or two.
Why we love it Sometimes Buffels can seem a bit like being on a tropical island due to the colours and calmness of the sea combined with the white-sand beach (but without the palm trees!). There’s also a stretch of green lawn (with picnic and braai spots) for folk who are not fans of sand in their food.
Secret pleasures Dipping in the sea and the large tidal pool (great for younger children), eating alfresco (just be aware of those crafty baboons!), birdwatching and exploring – there are rock pools, and a short hike between the rocky shoreline and fynbos-clad cliffs to Antoniesgat.
Best time to visit 6am – 6pm (October to March); 7am – 5pm (April – September). Be sure to check the wind forecasts.
Cost Cape Point Nature Reserve entry fees
SA citizens: R90 (adults); R45 (children)
SADC: R180 (adults); R90 (children)
International: R360 (adults); R180 (children)
Contact 021 780 9204, info@capepoint.co.za
086 110 6417 (emergency number)
Where it’s hidden Some 9km from the entrance of Cape Point Nature Reserve, take the Buffels Bay turn-off to the left.

Rooi-Els

Kolja Harbs

It’s a bit of a drive, but this little beach on the distant eastern shores of False Bay, under the shadow of Klein-Hangklip mountain, provides a different view of Cape Town in the distance, and is relatively unvisited.
Why we love it On the very edge of the stunning Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, there is a sense of wildness yet it’s also a sheltered nook. Keep an eye out for interesting birds and wildlife, including Cape clawless otters, baboons, antelope, dassies, dolphins and seals. The cola-hued Rooi Els River flows into the ocean here, providing shallow waters that children love to splash about in.
Secret pleasures Good for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling and beachcombing – there are ancient shell middens, a cave, rock pools and more to discover, as well as mussels to pick for dinner (be sure to get a permit for R57 from the Post Office).
Best time to visit Any time the weather’s good. Make a day of it – the sunset views over False Bay will be magnificent.
Cost Free
Where it’s hidden Clarence Drive (R44), coming from Gordon’s Bay, crosses over the river and beach and past the town – turn right into Anemone Street, then the first right and then left into Bathers Walk (at the corner of Hotel Crescent, it leads down to the beach).

Silwerstroom

Aparna Jayachandran

Heading out of the city along the West Coast road, this Blue Flag beach resort bordering a nature reserve is a beautiful stretch of coastline that offers safe swimming (and warmer water in the tidal pool). It’s named after the stream that originates from a spring in the Atlantis Dunefields and reaches the sea here.
Why we love it It’s a combination of nature and comfort – the man-made facilities make for a pleasant day out for families (toilets, playgrounds, picnic and braai areas, lawns, lifeguards) but the surroundings are pristine and unspoilt, part of the West Coast Biosphere Reserve.
Secret pleasures Safe swimming in the azure Atlantic (thanks to a rocky promontory that calms the swell), 3km of sparkling white sands to traverse (discover Skulpbaai to the south), scenery to photograph and abundant birdlife.
Best time to visit Come early, as day visitors are limited to 250.
Cost Free.
Contact 021 444 3605
Where it’s hidden Take the Silwerstroom Road turn-off from the R27, 13km north of Melkbosstrand.

Diaz Beach

One of Cape Point’s more famous beaches (though still a secret unlocked by only a select few of the reserve’s numerous daily visitors), Diaz Beach makes for a truly unforgettable experience. Oh, and did we mention that it’s one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches, too? Perhaps the reason Diaz remains largely undisturbed is thanks to the 20-minute walk from the parking lot down a steep set of wooden stairs. For the stunning views alone, it’s undoubtedly worth it, as Diaz will render you breathless in the best possible way!
Why we love it It is literally at the tip of Cape Point (on the western side) and is encircled by dramatic cliffs and wild waves. You feel exhilarated and truly alive as you stand on its unspoilt shoreline and gaze at the crashing surf, towering crags and sheer beauty.
Secret pleasures Brave surfers and bodyboarders are drawn to its hollow barrels. However, swimming is not permitted due to the strong rip currents, so rather just wet your feet.
Best time to visit 6am – 6pm (October to March); 7am – 5pm (April – September). Arrive early to make the most of your time and avoid the wind.
Cost Cape Point Nature Reserve entry fees
SA citizens: R90 (adults); R45 (children)
SADC: R180 (adults); R90 (children)
International: R360 (adults); R180 (children)
Contact 021 780 9204, info@capepoint.co.za
086 110 6417 (emergency number)
Where it’s hidden Follow the gravel footpath from the main car park at Cape Point Nature Reserve, which then swings right and becomes a wooden boardwalk.

Kogel Bay

Gordon’s Bay has lovely beaches, but why not escape around the corner on Clarence Drive to this attractive stretch of False Bay coastline? It’s divided into three areas: Kogel Bay, and to the south, Spark’s Bay and Klippies Bay – each with day visitor facilities, lawns and shady trees.
Why we love it The location is beautiful, flanked by high mountains, and it’s been voted one of the best seaside braai spots in the country. The facilities mean it’s all about sun, sea, fun and watersports (surfing and fishing in particular).
Secret pleasures Kogel Bay’s long golden stretch of beach is perfect for games or walks – as for swimming, the ocean is inviting but has strong rip currents, so take care. For quick, safer dips in the sea, the natural rock pools and a small cove at Klippies Bay are ideal, and there is a tidal pool at Spark’s Bay and at Kogel Bay day camp. The sunsets are suitably dramatic.
Best time to visit Midweek is best, as it’s a very popular spot for camping.
Cost Free
Contact 021 856 9620/1/2/3
Where it’s hidden On Clarence Drive (R44), about 32km from Gordon’s Bay. There is parking for around 200 cars.

Milnerton Beach

It’s mostly ships entering the harbour that have a view of these shores – otherwise, they’re largely hidden in plain sight. It’s the seafront of Woodbridge Island, an upmarket residential area reached via a bridge over the Diep River, and most people don’t venture through the gates.
Why we love it A long stretch of clean, well-maintained beach with fantastic views over the bay of Table Mountain and the city. Plus there’s a lighthouse (it’s a feature of the 18th hole of the adjoining golf course), palm trees waving in the breeze, a lifesaving club and a few cafés.
Secret pleasures Dog-walking or human-walking, beach games like volleyball or frisbee, photography and sunbathing. As it can be pretty breezy here, it’s beloved of kitesurfers. There are benches along the beachfront for people who like to sit and watch the ships passing.
Best time to visit On calmer days when the wind isn’t too strong.
Cost Free.
Where it’s hidden Take the Loxton Road turn-off off Marine Drive (R27), over the bridge and head straight down to the beach parking. There is also a MyCiti bus stop here. Alternately, park at Lagoon Beach and walk along the Woodbridge Island shore (1km).

You’ll also find more peace and quiet at…

• Gifkommetjie and Bordjesdrif beaches at Cape Point
• Frank’s Bay (aka Froggy Pond) and Fisherman’s Beach in Simon’s Town
• For pure fascination, Skeleton Gorge Beach – on top of Table Mountain, alongside Hely-Hutchinson Dam (strictly not for swimming)

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