Top 10 Best Views In Cape Town
#1 Table Mountain Summit
Of course we’re kicking off our best views in Cape Town list with the remarkable tall-standing giant of the Mother City skyline, Table Mountain. Whether you prefer to climb / hike your way to the summit or take an Aerial Cableway to the top, there are few things that compare to the sensational 360-degree view from the top of one of the New7Wonders of Nature – And we challenge you to prove us otherwise!
Showcasing the Mother City in all her glory, the vast Atlantic Ocean, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, and the entire Cape Peninsula – there is NO view quite like it! Add one of Cape Town’s magical sherbet-colored sunsets to the equation and you may never want to come down.
Admiring one of the most magnificent views in Cape Town, and possibly the world, from the stunning Table Mountain summit is a bucket-list worthy experience that absolutely everyone who visits Cape Town should get to enjoy.
**Check out our ‘Table Mountain: The Ultimate Guide To Table Mountain’ blog for everything you need to know about this iconic flat-topped Mountain.
#2 Lion’s Head Peak
Standing tall at 669 meters above sea level, showcasing a beautiful panoramic view of the Mother City, Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula and beyond, the Lion’s Head Peak boasts one of the absolute best views in Cape Town hands down.
Beyond its breathtaking views, the roaring lion of the Mother City skyline is one of the city’s most beloved mountain gems and forms a vital part of Cape Town’s topography, standing loud and proud amongst Table Mountain and Signal Hill.
If you’re an avid hiker – irrespective if you’re a hiking first-timer or experienced hiking enthusiast – the view from the summit of Lion’s Head is particularly noteworthy and totally worth the one to two hour walk to get there. *Click here to find out everything you need to know about hiking Lions Head.
As Lion’s Head forms part of the renowned Table Mountain National Park, it boasts a rich biodiversity and diverse fauna and flora display, making it the ultimate nature lover’s paradise. That’s not all! To top it off, the renowned Lion’s Head summit is also one of the best and most beautiful sunrise and sunset spots in the entire Western Cape. It’s no surprise that going on a sunrise, sunset, and even a moonlight hike up Lion’s Head is one of the most sought-after experiences amongst locals and tourists alike.
#3 The ‘Sunset Rock’
Photo Credit: Flickr: Derek Keats
The ‘Sunset Rock’ is one of Cape Town’s most glorious hidden gems and secret spots. In addition to being one of the Mother City’s best kept secrets and most magnificent secret sunset spots, the beloved ‘Sunset Rock’ is renowned for its down-right breathtaking views.
Boasting unparalleled and unobstructed views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Clifton Beach, Camps Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Lion’s Head, and the Cape Peninsula it is bound to sweep you off your feet in more ways than one.
#4 Chapman’s Peak Drive
Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, showcasing the most spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean, Hout Bay, and beyond.
Affectionately known as ‘Chappies’ among locals this captivating coastal road climbs steadily from the fishing village of Hout Bay and ribbons along the rocky Atlantic coastline between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. In addition to its stunning surrounding scenery around every twist and turn, you’ll pass rugged mountain ranges, picturesque white-sand beaches, and vibrant fishing harbours and villages – Only further cementing its reputation as one of Cape Town’s best viewpoints.
Along the way there are numerous rest stops, look-out points, and picnic sites. Here you’ll find free-standing tables and seating areas. Paired with sensational sweeping views of course. As an extra bonus, the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive is known as one of the best places to spot the beloved members of Cape Town’s Marine Big 5. Be sure to keep a look out for dolphins, Southern Right Whales, African Penguins, Cape Fur Seals, and any amazing marine life sightings.
**If you’re looking to experience something extra special, a sunset drive along Chapman’s Peak promises to sweep you off your feet and capture your sunset-loving heart all at the same time. It isn’t known as one of the best sunset spots in Cape Town for nothing.
**If you’re eager to add some adventure and thrill to your Chapman’s Peak Drive experience, here are a few things to look out for:
**Tip: Chapman’s Peak Drive is known for its amazing hidden gems scattered along the route. Two of which include the waterfall walk and the secret Look-out Cave.
The waterfall walk is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers and is found just before you reach the toll gate on your way towards Noordhoek.
The Chapman’s Peak Look-out Cave is not only one of its most beautiful hidden gems, but one of Cape Town’s top secret caves and best sunset spots too. Like all of the Mother City’s best kept secrets, you may need to wander a little off the beaten path to find it. Make your way along Chapman’s Peak Drive until you reach the famous Chapman’s Peak Lookout Point – This is where the real adventure begins!
Positioned just below the pass, you’ll have to climb over the railing and carefully make your way down the mountainside to reach the Lookout Cave. Once you’ve reached this cool secret hideaway and stunning sunset spot, it’s time to sit back, relax and soak it all in. The sheltered sand-stone cave boasts the perfect view over Hout Bay and Atlantic Ocean. An extra bonus is that it has enough space to enjoy a picnic and a few sundowners paired with one hell of a view.
Besides these two must-visit secret spots, there are a variety of look-out points and picnic sites located at various points along the drive. Chapman’s Peak Drive is also known as one of the best places to spot the beloved members of Cape Town’s Marine Big 5. Make sure to keep a look-out for Cape Fur Seals, Dolphins, Southern Right Whales, and African Penguins.
** Important note: Chapman’s Peak Drive may be closed during severe weather, or because of road maintenance. Contact the customer service line (021 791 8220) or visit their Facebook page or website to check the current status.
- Location: M6 | Chapmans Peak Drive, Atlantic Seaboard, Cape Town
- Best time: Best during daylight hours | Particularly beautiful at sunset
- Cost: Chapman’s Peak Drive is a toll road, and as such requires as toll tariff fee. Each category of vehicle pays a different tariff and the tariff is applicable in each direction.
- Toll Details: Click here to find out more about the Chapman’s Peak Standard Toll Tariffs | Click here to find out more about Chapman’s Peak Day Passes | Click here to find out more about Chapman’s Peak Frequent User Benefits
#5 Victoria Road
Nestled against the Table Mountain range, Victoria Road is by far one of the most scenic drives in the Mother City showcasing some of the best views in Cape Town. Stretching all the way from Sea Point to Hout Bay, Victoria Road boasts magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounding mountain ranges, Hout Bay, Camps Bay, the magical Llandudno Beach, and Cape Peninsula.
There are several rest spots and viewing points along the Victoria Road stretch – giving you the perfect opportunity to pull over and admire the breathtaking scene and stunning views before you.
#6 Signal Hill
The infamous Signal Hill, which connects Kloof Nek to Lion’s Head, in the distinctive shape of a lion’s rump, is one of the most sought-after spots and attractions in Cape Town. Views from the 350m high summit are nothing short of spectacular, particularly at sunset (Signal Hill is indeed another one of Cape Town’s best sunset spots and a great place to enjoy a few sundowners) as well as at night with the Mother City’s lights shining and sparkling in the distance. In fact, Signal Hill is a little like ‘lovers’ lane’ in the evening – popular among couples who are up there to enjoy the lights and the romance of the beautiful Table Mountain backdrop.
**Reaching Signal Hill is as easy as driving up Kloof Nek Road from the city and then taking a right at the top of the hill.
#7 Cape Point
Located at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, the Cape Point National Park is one of Cape Town’s most remarkable natural wonders and sought-after attractions.
It’s no secret that Cape Point is widely renowned and celebrated for showcasing some of the most magnificent and absolute best views in Cape Town. Boasting dramatic views of the glorious Atlantic Ocean, plunging cliffs, rising peaks, mountain ranges along the southern coast, its beautifully untamed wilderness, and so much more, Cape Point is a true marvel.
Besides its unapologetic natural beauty, Cape Point boasts several stunning secret beaches, thrilling hiking and walking trails, tons of amazing activities, endless adventure experiences, and a rich biodiversity of vast and varied fauna and flora – Making it the ultimate mecca for nature lovers, adventure seekers, avid hikers and explorers, and absolutely everyone in between.
With so much to do, see, and experience, visiting the renowned Cape Point should be on everyone’s Cape Town bucket-list.
**Tip: Cape Point’s most popular and highest vantage point is the Old Lighthouse perched on top of the peak at 238 meters above sea level. You can reach the top on foot or by taking the famous Cape Point funicular. There are also numerous viewing decks for you to admire the amazing views and surrounding scenery.
#8 Blouberg Beach
Located on the shores of the West Coast, Blouberg Beach without a doubt boasts one of the best (if not THE best) views of Table Mountain in the entire Western Cape. To further back up this bold statement, the view of the world-renowned Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand was rated and declared one of the most ‘Instagrammed’ spots in Cape Town. How incredible is that?
In addition to Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, the Atlantic Ocean, and Robben Island are all visible from Blouberg Beach. To make it even better, if you’re a head-over-heels sunset lover looking to witness and experience the most magnificent beach sunset view in the Mother City – Absolutely nothing compares to a Bloubergstrand sunset!
**Extra tip: Besides being one of the best beaches and sunset spots in Cape Town, Blouberg is regarded as one of the top surfing and kitesurfing destinations in the world.
#9 Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool
Maiden’s Cove is one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches, lookout points, and top tidal pools (amongst locals & tourists alike). Boasting breath-taking views of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, Atlantic Ocean, the back end of the famous Table Mountain, Glen Beach, Camps Bay, and the captivating Clifton Beach, Maiden’s Cove undoubtedly boasts one of the very best views in Cape Town.
With such a spectacular view, complimented by the cool and refreshing ocean water, there is nothing quite like being sun-kissed, salty-haired, and blissed-out while soaking up the glorious Cape Town sunshine and spending the day at Maiden’s Cove.
**Extra Note: Did you know that Maiden’s Cove has two amazing tidal pools. The first tidal pool is located between Glen Beach and Camps Bay Beach. Boasting great braai and picnic facilities it is ideal for a fun-filled and leisurely day out with family and friends. Sun, sea, scenic views, and a whole lot of exciting things to do – What more could you ask for?
Perched between the scenic stretches of Clifton 4th and Glen Beach, Maiden’s Cove second tidal pool is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean, the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, and the verdant greenery of the mountains of the Western Cape. Undoubtedly making Maiden’s Cove tidal pool a scenic wonder and sought-after spot for a day of ocean-front relaxation, swimming, or a quick dip in the Atlantic.
Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool Information:
- Location: Maiden’s Cove | Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Atlantic Seaboard, Cape Town
- Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool 1: Located between Glen Beach & Camps Bay Beach
- Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool 2: Located between Glen Beach & Clifton4th Beach
- Distance from Cape Town: +/- 7.5km | +/- 17 – 20 minutes
- Cost: Free
- When: Best during daylight hours | One of the top sunset spots in Cape Town
- Braai facilities: Maiden’s cove offers designated public braai and picnic spots with magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean, 12 Apostles Mountain Range. and Table Mountain – This not only makes Maiden’s Cove one of the best tidal pools in Cape Town, but the perfect place for an ocean-front braai with family and friends
- Contact details: 021 438 8212
Check out our ‘Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool’ blog to find out everything you want / need to know about Maiden’s Cove and its amazing tidal pools.
#10 Helshoogte Pass
Hellshoogte or ‘Hell’s Height’s, also known as the R310, is one of the oldest passes in the Western Cape (it was built in 1854). The remarkable Helshoogte Pass is responsible for linking two of the most pristine and widely sought-after wine districts – Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. It also passes through the villages of Kylemore, Johannesdal and Pniel.
From the pass the views of the winelands, surrounded by towering mountains and blue skies, are utterly breathtaking. Not only making it one of the best views in Cape Town, but a must-visit destination.
