Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. The kind of places that make you want to stay until sunset, swim one more time, and come back the next morning. From tiny hidden coves to long white beaches and crystal clear water, these are 5 of my favourite beaches in and around Cape Town that I keep finding myself returning to.
Bakoven Beach
First up: Bakoven Beach. A tiny coastal paradise tucked between giant granite rocks along the Atlantic Seaboard. It’s the kind of place where locals sneak away for a lunchtime swim or spend slow afternoons stretched out in the sun. The water is crystal clear, the colours almost unreal, and the whole cove feels like a hidden escape from the city, even though you’re only minutes away from it. Bring a towel, something cold to drink, and stay until golden hour when the rocks start glowing in the soft evening light.
Clifton 2nd Beach
Clifton 2nd is part of the four iconic Clifton beaches, nestled between Sea Point and Camps Bay. After walking down the long staircase, you’ll arrive in what feels like a little beach paradise where people completely lose track of time. Spend the entire day here: rent a sunbed or throw down your towel on some of the whitest sand you’ll probably ever see. Bring tennis bats, watermelon, magazines, and don’t forget to grab a granadilla lollipop from one of the guys walking around with coolboxes. As the sun starts setting, the beach turns golden and beach volleyball games slowly come to life. One of those places where summer days seem endless.
Saunders' Rocks Beach
Saunders' Rocks is where locals, swallows, travellers, and ocean lovers all seem to cross paths. People move between the tidal pool and the icy Atlantic from sunrise until sunset. The beach is especially known for its “cold plunge” culture. Arrive around 6:30am and you’ll find the rocks already filled with people starting their day with an energising dip in the freezing ocean. But come back later in the afternoon and the entire atmosphere shifts. Music plays softly, groups gather on the rocks, friends run into each other, and others simply come alone to read a book. Sunset here is something special.
Llandudno
About a 25-minute drive from Cape Town along one of the most beautiful coastal roads, you’ll find Llandudno Beach. Walking down the steps towards the bay almost never gets old. Think bright blue water, dramatic mountains, surfers catching waves, and some of the dreamiest houses tucked into the hills. Go for a long walk along the shoreline, climb across the rocks for panoramic views over the bay, and stay until sunset when the mountains slowly change from blue to gold and soft pink tones. Llandudno feels wild, peaceful, and cinematic all at once. Definitely worth the drive.
Boulders Beach
Around 50 minutes from Cape Town, Boulders Beach is famous for its penguins, but honestly, it’s so much more than that. The water here is unbelievably clear with deep turquoise and bright blue tones that almost don’t look real. Unlike the Atlantic side, the water is calmer and warmer, making it perfect for actually spending the day swimming and relaxing. Climb over the giant boulders and you’ll discover little hidden coves that feel like your own private paradise. And every now and then, you’ll suddenly find yourself face-to-face with a penguin casually waddling by. It’s one of those places that feels a little magical.
