Guide to Camps Bay
The Jewel of Cape Town’s Coastline
Camps Bay is THE place to be, attracting keen travellers, adventurous globe-trotters, easy breezy holiday-goers, sun-chasers, and head-over-heels beach lovers from all around the world with its beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and world-class restaurants and bars.
The breathtaking Twelve Apostles Mountain Range backdrop, soft stretch of white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, fringing palm trees, vibrant strip of globally renowned restaurants & bars, and cool & captivating vibe that embodies one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – AKA: CAMPS BAY – creates the ULTIMATE beach escape for those eager to take full advantage of the Mother City’s hot & vibrant summer season.
Whether you’re looking to spend some time on its white sandy beach, take a dip in the cool Atlantic Ocean waters, soak up the glorious Mother City sunshine, enjoy every second of a blissful beach day, or sip on some sensational cocktails at a stunning beachfront sundowner spot, Camps Bay is the GO-TO beach escape for keen travellers, adventure enthusiasts, and head-over-heels beach lovers from around the world.
Known as THE place to see & be seen in Cape Town – Camps Bay is deemed as the ULTIMATE ‘playground’ of the “it” crowd!
Camps Bay
It’s time to get beachy! Camps Bay is a stunning, sun-kissed, blissful beachy paradise with a WHOLE lot to offer!
Located at the foot of the picturesque Twelve Apostles mountain range, just a short 10 minute drive from the lively Cape Town city centre, you’ll find the gently curving crescent and pure slice of beautiful beach paradise that is Camps Bay.
Compared to the likes of St Tropez and South Beach, Camps Bay is undoubtedly one of the most (if not THE most) striking and sought-after seaside neighbourhoods, and breathtaking beachfront escapes for locals, tourists, travellers, adventurous globe-trotters, families, holiday-goers, loved-up couples, new Mother City residents, head-over-heels beach lovers, and absolutely EVERYONE in between.
Boasting a prime location between Table Mountain National Park and stretches of gorgeous beaches, it comes as no surprise that Camps Bay is widely regarded as one of the BEST neighbourhoods in Cape Town. Oh, and certainly one of the most beautiful, popular, and safest too!
However, while this stunning seaside neighbourhood’s undeniable beauty, charm, and beachfront allure will have you hooked, head-over-heels & swept-up in a fairytale romance in mere seconds – let’s just call it the ‘CAMPS BAY LOVE-AT-FIRST-SIGHT EFFECT’ (don’t worry, it happens to the best of us) – This Cape Town beach gem is DEFITELY not all looks – OH NO! – There is FAAAAAR MORE to the captivating Camps Bay than what meets the eye – Prepare to be pleasantly surprised!
Camps Bay Sunset Strip
The ultimate sundowner & social hotspot in Cape Town!
Camps Bay buzzes with energy! From an eclectic mix of upscale restaurants, laid-back beachfront eateries, colorful pavement cafés, trendy rooftop bars, cool coffee shops, beach boutiques, and several sought-after sundowner hotspots to a plethora of shops, five-star Boutique Hotels, stylish boutiques, and countless beach-side cocktail bars that turn into chic night clubs come nightfall, all located along the stunning beachfront and iconic Victoria Road – also known as the famous Camps Bay Sunset Strip – there is absolutely no denying that Camps Bay boasts one of the most coveted, vibrant, and renowned restaurant and bar scenes in Cape Town.
This Mother City beach gem truly has it ALL – and that’s before you even get to the beach…
Camps Bay Beach
ITS BEACH TIME!
Claiming the title as one of the most sought-after, striking, and SPECTACULAR beach stunners in not only Cape Town, but the world too, Camps Bay Beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, fringing palm trees, and natural rock pools, all perfectly complimented by a picturesque backdrop of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, Lions Head, and the glorious Atlantic Ocean – Camps Bay is pure beach perfection!
It’s no surprise that the captivating Camps Bay has not only made its debut on countless Instagram feeds, travel bucket-lists, postcards, and travel magazines but loudly and proudly established itself as the ULTIMATE Cape Town beach hotspot amongst both locals and tourists alike. *With everyone looking to experience just a second of that glorious Camps Bay beach magic!
Regarded as the ultimate playground for beach enthusiasts, offering a combination of natural beauty, vibrant energy & a cosmopolitan atmosphere, Camps Bay Beach is known for its wide range of recreational activities.
What to do at Camps Bay Beach
Facilities Offered at Camps Bay Beach
Camps Bay Beach offers a wide range of facilities to ensure that every single visitor has an enjoyable, comfortable & unforgettable experience. These facilities include:
Nearby Attractions
Restaurants in Camps Bay
Camps Bay in Cape Town isn’t just about the beach vibes, it’s a foodie’s paradise too! With the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range as a backdrop, the restaurants here serve up more than just good eats!
With its stunning sandy beaches, mesmerizing sunsets, and an impressive selection of top-notch dining options, Camps Bay is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.
Join us as we explore the best Camps Bay restaurants, each catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you love seafood, crave a delicious steak, or want to try the local flavours – Camps Bay restaurants has something for EVERYONE!
#Café Caprice | Camps Bay
Photo credit: Cafe Caprice
Located right in the heart of the famous Camps Bay sunset strip, the iconic Café Caprice has become synonymous with Camps Bay – you simply can’t mention the one without bringing up the other – Café Caprice is one of the hottest beach bars, trendiest cafés / restaurants, and most sought-after sunset cocktail spots in Cape Town. With a reputation like that, how can it not be one of the best places to go to for brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks, sundowners & everything in between in the Mother City?
Besides their prime Camps Bay location, vibrant energy, beautiful beachfront view, and cool laid-back vibe, Café Caprice combines artisan cocktails, a café-style menu, relaxing lounges, and sidewalk seating that allow locals and tourists alike to experience the epitome of Cape Town’s cosmopolitan social scene. All that’s left to do is sit back, relax, enjoy the full Café Caprice experience, and soak up every glorious second of the sensational view in front of you.
- Location: Café Caprice, 37 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Contact: 021 438 8315 | [email protected]
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#Codfather Seafood & Sushi | Camps Bay
Calling ALL head-over-heels seafood lovers! Located in the heart of Camps Bay, the wildly popular & renowned Codfather Seafood & Sushi has loudly & proudly established itself as one the TOP not-to-be-missed seafood restaurants in Cape Town & the ULTIMATE go-to destination for seafood lovers!
Boasting a legacy of over two decades, first opening its doors in 1998, Codfather Seafood & Sushi garnered a top-tier reputation for its unwavering commitment to upholding culinary excellence. From its humble beginnings, the restaurant has flourished to become a bustling hub for seafood lovers, attracting both locals & patrons from far & wide. Taking GREAT pride in offering a truly unique & memorable dining experience, there is no denying that The Codfather Seafood & Sushi is a culinary gem that leaves a lasting impression – for ALL the good reasons of course!
With the slogan of ‘Why Eat When You Can Feast’ – You better believe you are in for the mother of all seafood treats when dining at the Codfather Seafood & Sushi. All we can say is – prepare to be blown away! Their extraordinary extravaganza of fresh fish, delectable shellfish, & down-right delicious & innovative sushi creations are known to leave patrons utterly amazed. It certainly doesn’t end there – oh no! When it comes to freshness, sustainability, quality & variety, the Codfather Seafood & Sushi is truly unmatched – from their signature prawns, oysters, langoustines and crayfish, tender Falkland’s calamari and huge assortment of the freshest Linefish – it is nothing short of SPECTACULAR! Paired with their inviting ambience & breathtaking views of the ocean & mountains, Codfather Seafood & Sushi provides a captivating setting for an unforgettable seafood meal.
What sets Codfather apart is its unique concept as a seafood market. Unlike traditional restaurants with printed menus, Codfather allows diners to handpick their desired seafood from an enticing display, reminiscent of a bustling fish market. This interactive approach ensures that every customer receives the freshest catch, tailored to their preferences. Coupled with a relaxed contemporary ambience & a terrace offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glorious ocean & stunning Camps Bay Beach, Codfather Seafood & Sushi provides an inviting setting for any & all seafood lovers!
- Location: Codfather Seafood & Sushi, 37 The Drive, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Contact details: 021 438 0782 | [email protected]
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#Mantra Café | Camps Bay
Set within the heart of Camps Bay, Mantra Café is somewhat of a hidden gem. But one thing is certain – this wildly beloved Camps Bay Café / Restaurant offers any & all diners a truly unmatched culinary experience paired with one of the most breathtaking views of the bay.
Mantra Café’s striking design and inviting ambience creates a warm & wonderful atmosphere which sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The Café is decorated with exquisite artwork, and its lush flora only contributes to its cosy and welcoming ambiance and delightful setting. Mantra Cafe’s menu features an array of innovative dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Each & every dish at Mantra Café is freshly prepared – using only the finest ingredients – not to mention brimming with flavour. Whether you’re in the mood for tapas-style sharing plates or hearty main courses – Mantra Café definitely has you covered. The incredible selection of superb, freshly prepared & flavour-filled dishes, striking design & stunning setting, warm & welcoming atmosphere, friendly & knowledgeable staff, and truly exceptional views makes dining at the Mantra Café in Camps Bay a NOT-TO-BE-MISSED experience!
- Location: Mantra Café, 43 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Contact details: 065 823 3901 | [email protected]
- Website: www.mantracafe.co.za
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#Bilboa | Camps Bay
Experience the flavours of the Med – Camps Bay style – at Bilboa.
Perched above the white sands of Camps Bay Beach, Bilboa offers a spectacular and sophisticated beachfront dining experience overlooking the magnificent Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head. The menu at Bilboa showcases contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients, and includes everything from oysters, mussels, and shellfish to meat dishes, healthy alternatives, and out-of-this-world desserts.
Exceptional service, paired with a refined and enlightened international flair, and breathtaking ocean views has established Bilboa as a must-visit destination restaurant for cosmopolitan guests. Elegance and intricate lavish luxury interior design elements sets Bilboa apart – along with its unique position, which not only overlooks the beautiful Camps Bay beach, but directly faces the majestic Lion’s Head. Bilboa’s elevated, open-air setting above the Camps Bay strip offers unrivalled sunset views – making it the perfect spot for sundowners and intimate dining.
- Location: Bilboa, Shop 120, First Floor, The Promenade, Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Contact details: 021 286 5155 | [email protected]
- Website: www.kovecollection.co.za/bilboa/
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#Bo-Vine Wine & Grill House | Camps Bay
If you’re a fan of exceptional wine and expertly grilled meats, Bo-Vine Wine & Grill House is the place to be! This trendy restaurant offers a warm & welcoming atmosphere, with rustic wooden accents & an extensive wine list showcasing some of South Africa’s finest vintages.
At Bo-Vine, the focus is on showcasing the natural flavours of quality meats. The menu offers a variety of steaks, light burgers & ribs, all grilled to perfection & served with delectable sides. The “Wet Aged Cut” is a crowd-pleaser, while the “Wagyu Burger” delights with an option of extra cheese.
- Location: Bo-Vine Wine & Grill House, Shop 1, The Promenade Shopping Centre, 85 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Contact details: 021 203 5314 | 063 712 6310 | [email protected]
- Website: www.bovinegrillhouse.com
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#Salsify At The Roundhouse | Camps Bay
Salsify At The Roundhouse has established itself as a major contender in the exceptional and exciting Cape Town culinary scene. Salsify at the Roundhouse is the spectacular creation of two of Cape Town’s fine dining gurus, Luke Dale-Roberts, and Ryan Cole. Luke Dale-Roberts, founder, and owner of The Test Kitchen, The Pot Luck Club and The Shortmarket Club, and his head chef Ryan Cole, added Salsify At The Roundhouse as the latest edition to their list of impressive and iconic Cape Town eateries.
Much like its culinary counterparts, Salsify at the Roundhouse is all about pushing the culinary boundaries, but in the very best way! Diners can expect a unique la carte menu of delicate, yet intense, seasonal flavors and techniques when dining at Salsify. But it’s important to remember that Salsify at The Roundhouse is a Luke Dale Roberts creation after all. So, you better believe that this will be no ordinary dining experience, but one filled with plenty of flavor-filled creations, and tons of thrilling culinary surprises you’ll never see coming – Making the dining experience at Salsify all the more exhilarating.
- Location: The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay Cape Town
- Contact details: 021 010 6444 |[email protected] | www.salsify.co.za
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Getting to Camps Bay Beach
Camps Bay is one of the most accessible beaches close to the city – it is approximately 6km / +/- a 10-minute drive from the city centre. Public buses stop at the beach, as does the famous hop-on hop-off City Sightseeing Red Bus tourist bus / tours as well as various ride-sharing options such as Uber & Bolt. Camps Bay is easily accessible by car or public transport, and there is ample parking available along Victoria Road. Parking is free and you can park right alongside it (well, if you’re lucky to get a spot – especially during Cape Town’s peak summer season) and simply hop over to the beach if you just want to feel the sand between your toes for a minute.
**EXTRA BONUS – Camps Bay Beach is within walking distance of several renowned & highly sought after restaurants, cafés, stylish shops, beach boutiques, cool coffee shops, beachfront eateries, five-star Boutique Hotels, trendy bars, sundowner hotspots, beach-side cocktail bars & SO MUCH MORE! **Not to mention the views are BEYOND BREATHTAKING too!
Extra Travel Information
Camps Bay is generally considered a safe area for tourists. However, like any popular tourist destination, it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid displaying valuable items, and be cautious when walking alone at night. It’s always a good idea to stay informed about the local safety guidelines and consult with local authorities or your accommodation for any specific concerns.
