Best Secret Beaches in the Cape
Cape Town boasts with ten Blue Flag beaches. But there are also other hidden gems that you can visit if you are in the mood for a quieter beach outing. We’ve searched high and low to find you a few for you. Some are located within the city borders, others a short drive out of the city.
Platboom
Location: Cape Point Nature Reserve
There are a few secret beach spots hidden in the reserve. This one, translated as Flat Tree, is by far the most unspoilt option. You can access it just past Dias Cross or from the North-South side near Gifkommetjie.
You might even spot an ostrich or baboon in the lush vegetation hugging the side of the beach. It’s definitely a unique beach outing. Entrance fees to the reserve are R145 for adults and R75 for children. But it’s worth it. You can do some wildlife spotting as you drive through the reserve before heading to the beach.
The outstretched coastline with chalk-white sand offers you the opportunity to indulge in an undisturbed long stroll. It’s also perfect for kite- and windsurfing. Swimming is at own risk, not recommended because it’s so secluded. It’s ideal for birdwatching, picnicking and provides epic photography opportunities.
Visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve website for more information.
Diaz Beach
Location: Cape Point Nature Reserve
Another one of Cape Point’s great beaches. It’s a bit more popular than Platboom, but you still only have to contend with visitors to the reserve. It is definitely one of the most beautiful Capetonian beaches.
Getting to this secluded spot is a bit of a challenge. From the parking lot, it’s a 20-minute walk down quite steep wooden stairs. But the views are worth the trouble. The towering cliffs behind the beach creates a stunningly dramatic effect. Surfers enjoy the hollow barrels, but swimming is risky with strong currents to contend with.
Preekstoel
Location: West Coast National Park, between Yzerfontein and Langebaan.
Translated as the Preacher’s Pulpit. The name comes from a rock formation jutting out of the sand near the water edge. It creates a bit of shelter while you relax in the shallows next to it. It’s a short drive along the West Coast road, perfect for a weekend outing. The beach offers you a 25km stretch of rugged coastline, situated close to the Langebaan Lagoon.
The West Coast offers you a completely different experience compared to the more “commercial” city beaches such as Camps Bay. Its calm waters make it a perfect spot for snorkelling, fishing, and swimming. You can also braai at the picnic area next to the lagoon. And look out for the rusted shipwreck. Entrance fee to the park depends on the season. It is R54 to R76 for adults, and R27 to R38 for children.
Visit the West Coast National Park website for more information.
Water’s Edge
Location: Between Seaforth and Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town.
Depending on where you stay in the city, this can also count as a mini road trip. It’s a secret spot all the locals know about, a bit off the beaten track. It is situated at the end of a little paved pathway. Park at Seaforth Beach and continue walking till you’ve passed the Seaforth Restaurant.
Even though Simon’s Town is one of the most popular seaside spots in Cape Town, this secluded bay with beautiful views is never as packed as the other Simon’s Town beaches. Nestled between the popular Seaforth and Boulders Beaches, this one remains a bit more undiscovered by the masses. It’s a great family-friendly option. Keep the kids busy for ours hunting for starfish in the rockpools. On the side of the beach you can also set up for the day under the trees or relax on the granite boulders. If you’re lucky, you might see penguins too. Perfect for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and picnicking.
Windmill Beach
Location: Simon’s Town, access via Bellevue Road.
Another quieter spot in Simon’s Town. It is similar to Boulders Beach, but more hidden. The granite boulders surrounding the beach creates a great sheltered swimming area. You can park at Links Crescent, the first right passing the golf course.
The rock pools team with fascinating sea life. And it’s close to the penguin colony, who sometimes visit the beach. The shallow water, sheltered by the boulders, creates a lovely safe kids-friendly swimming area. Also perfect for snorkelling, swimming, and picnicking. Plus, it is a dog-friendly beach. Caution must be taken when swimming because there are no shark spotters or lifeguards on duty.
Sunset Beach
Location: Blaauwberg
Perfect for long walks along the crashing waves, ending in picture-perfect sunsets. Keep your phone ready for a postcard moment, with Table Mountain being painted shades of red and pink by the setting sun. If you want something a bit different than Bloubergstrand or little bit closer to the city than Melkbosstrand, this one is a winner.
The beach was rewarded the status of third best windsurfing option in the world, at the top with Hawaii and New Zealand. You can swim here, sunbathe, picnic and bodyboard. Ideal secret spot, it’s never as crowded as the other beaches on this Atlantic Ocean stretch.
Scarborough beach
Location: Camel Rock Road, Scarborough
Another fun option for a small road trip. It’s situated between Noordhoek and Kommetjie. A lovely peaceful spot frequented only by a few surfers. A dog-friendly beach, so you can go for a long stroll with your four-footed friend. But you need a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R270), as the beach is part of the Table Mountain National Park.
The unspoiled beach and beautiful ocean views will whisk you away for a moment to an idyllic location. Take note, the wind gets really strong here. Great for flying a kite and windsurfing, not ideal for a picnic. Also, rather just dip your toe in the ocean and resist the urge to swim, the area has lots of strong rip currents. It is better to visit with a group of friends, as there are safety issues in the area.
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