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Best Secret Beaches in Cape Town Where You Can Ditch the Crowds
Let me tell you a secret: Cape Town has some hidden beaches that most tourists never find.
When I was exploring the coast, I found these secluded spots that are a great escape from crowded sands and noisy areas.
While part of me would like to keep these treasures to myself, they’re too good not to share! Ready to explore Cape Town’s best-kept seaside secrets with me?
Bakoven Beach
Media from jarattours
I love visiting Bakoven Beach for its stunning combination of soft white sand and turquoise waters. It’s less crowded than the neighbouring Camps Bay and has two hidden spots—Beta Beach and Bali Beach.
The beach is surrounded by large granite boulders, creating secluded coves and adding to its scenic charm. Additionally, it offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
Activities at Bakoven Beach include swimming, snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, and hiking along the Twelve Apostles Walk.
| Pro Tip: For an expansive seaside experience, plan your visit during low tide to enjoy the most beach space. This timing allows you to take advantage of the wider shores for sunbathing, beach games, or exploring the exposed rock pools. |
Buffels Bay Beach
Media from marconista77
Buffels Bay Beach offers a serene escape from the bustling crowds typically found at False Bay. It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic or a barbecue, with its sheltered setting and ample space.
I’ve found the calm, clear waters ideal for swimming, and I’ve even had the pleasure of seeing playful seals surf alongside me. For kids, the tidal pools are like a natural playground, which always makes for an exciting adventure.
Buffels Bay doesn’t have palm trees, but its beautiful sea colours and clean white sands create a peaceful island vibe. After a day of hiking or cycling in the nearby reserve, you can relax and cool off at this tranquil beach before heading home.
| Pro Tip: If hunger strikes after a day at the beach and you’ve left your picnic behind, the Two Oceans Restaurant is just a 9-minute drive away, offering a feast for the senses with its stunning views over False Bay. |
Cosy Bay Beach
Media from secretcapetown
Cosy Bay Beach is a hidden gem located between Camps Bay and Llandudno, known for its serene environment and beautiful views without the crowd. It’s accessible via a steep staircase leading to a secluded cove with calm waters.
I love the shade from the trees that back the beach and how protected it feels from strong winds. It’s a great spot for a quiet picnic or a refreshing swim in the clear waters.
Unlike its more popular neighbour Oudekraal, Cosy Bay Beach doesn’t charge an entry fee, making it a cost-effective option for a peaceful day out by the sea.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure the best spot for an uninterrupted day of relaxation and sunbathing. |
Danger Beach
Media from shaqct
Danger Beach is a hidden gem located near St James, often missed by those driving by but cherished by local train commuters who spot it on their route. Despite its intimidating name and the lively waves that appeal to surfers, it offers a unique coastal experience.
I enjoy walking along its stretch of white sand dotted with rocks and listening to the distinct rumble of the nearby railway. For safer swimming, I head to the tidal pool at St James (Dalebrook tidal pool is also a good option if you prefer).
The beach is also great for leisure activities like beachcombing, sand castle building, and enjoying the early morning sun as it rises over the bay, illuminating the 1.5 km St James Walkway.
| Pro Tip: Plan your visit in the morning when the weather is typically pleasant and the sea is tranquil. Keep in mind that the sun sets earlier behind the mountains here, so morning visits ensure you enjoy the most sunshine. |
Diaz Beach
Media from kaiheeringa
Diaz Beach has become one of my favourite spots despite the 20-minute walk down the steep wooden stairs from the parking lot. The effort to get there is well worth it for the breathtaking views and the dramatic cliffs that surround this beach.
Nestled at the tip of Cape Point, it’s known for its wild waves, which make it a favourite among surfers.
While swimming isn’t recommended due to the dangerous currents, the breathtaking beauty and rugged landscape make the beach a must-visit.
| Pro Tip: Cape Point Nature Reserve is a short walk away. There, you can explore historical sites like the old lighthouse, experience the Cape of Good Hope, and encounter diverse wildlife including baboons, ostriches, and the unique Cape mountain zebra. |
Glen Beach
Media from kayleighgroenendijk
When I visited Glen Beach, I was pleasantly surprised by how peaceful it felt compared to the bustling Camps Bay just a short walk away. While Camps Bay can be packed to the brim during December and January, Glen Beach offers a much quieter experience.
I loved watching the local surfers riding the “wedgy right” waves, and during the off-peak season, it was perfect for a leisurely stroll with my dog.
The beach is surrounded by charming small bungalows and boasts stunning views of the Twelve Apostles Mountains. I also enjoyed exploring the nearby restaurants and bars in the area, which made for some delightful evening outings.
| Pro Tip: Look for vendors at the beach who sing catchy old jingles like “Iced lollies to make you jolly.” For more food options, walk 10 minutes over the sand dune to Camps Bay for takeaways, restaurants, and bars. |
Kogel Bay
Media from candiceddp
Kogel Bay is one of the three areas along Clarence Drive offering day visitor facilities, lawns, and shady trees. The other two areas, Spark’s Bay and Klippies Bay, are located to the south.
When I visited, it was easy to see why it’s a favourite for a beach braai. The area has well-maintained facilities, with lawns and shady trees that make it ideal for a relaxed day out.
Be cautious though: while the beach is great for walks and games, the ocean can have strong rip currents. For safer swimming, try the rock pools at Klippies Bay and the tidal pool at Spark’s Bay.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to camp at this beach; midweek is the ideal time for a quieter experience. |
Maclear Beach
Media from schoonheidvandewereld
Maclear Beach is not your typical swim-and-sunbathe spot but more of a dip-your-toes-and-chill kind of beach. Tucked away on Cape Point, it’s a short trek through wild fynbos to find this slice of tranquillity.
I loved the stunning views of the sea and horizon, which made for a perfect backdrop to my day. I also took advantage of the beach for some fishing. Make sure to get the necessary permits if you’re interested!
And of course, a visit to the Cape of Good Hope nearby was the perfect way to end the adventure with a view that’s hard to beat.
| Pro Tip: Visit at spring low tide for the best beach conditions and the rock pools at their prime. This is when you’ll find more beach areas and rock pools full of fascinating creatures to explore. |
Milnerton Beach
Media from blue_horizon_surf
Milnerton Beach is a hidden gem I discovered behind the posh homes of Woodbridge Island. The beach offers fantastic views of Table Mountain and a quaint lighthouse that doubles as a feature on the nearby golf course.
I appreciated the clean sands and relaxed vibe, along with the palm trees swaying in the wind.
It’s a hotspot for dog walkers, frisbee champs, and sunbathers, but if the wind picks up, the kite surfers take over. And if you’re just there to relax, grab a bench and enjoy the parade of ships cruising into the harbour.
| Pro Tip: For a convenient stay near the beach, book Cape Beach House. It offers easy access to the beach and local amenities. |
Olifantsbos Beach
Media from yogahike
Olifantsbos Beach is a small, secluded spot surrounded by wild fynbos vegetation. It’s known for its shipwrecks, reminders of the Cape of Storms’ power, and is a marine protected area that attracts diverse birdlife.
While I was there, I enjoyed birdwatching and strolled along the beach. I noticed that the beach is popular among surfers, especially during high tide when the southeasterly wind picks up.
I also stayed at the charming self-catering cottage just steps away from the beach. It’s a great place to unwind, but it’s so popular that booking in advance is a must.
| Pro Tip: If you prefer dry activities, look for the well-marked beach walks and hiking trails. The Sirkelsvlei Walk and the Shipwreck Trail are both scenic and offer a good challenge. |
Oudekraal Beach
Media from jadamiani
I’ve visited Oudekraal Beach, and it’s a peaceful spot with deep roots in the local Muslim community. The area once served as a sanctuary for escaped slaves and Muslim leaders in the 18th century, which adds a sense of history to the experience.
Nowadays, it’s a favourite for scuba divers, thanks to its calm waters. Even though the water can be a bit cold, the spot is great for swimming and snorkelling.
I found the picnic and barbecue spots particularly enjoyable, with plenty of shade provided by the milkwood trees and granite boulders. There’s a small conservation fee to enter this part of Table Mountain National Park—R30 for adults and R15 for children.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the pristine white sand and clear aqua sea with minimal crowds. By 9 am, you’ll likely have the beach largely to yourself for a few hours. |
Platboom Beach
Media from giannifresi
Platboom is considered the most natural and untouched beach in Cape Point. It’s named after a type of flat-bottomed boat and is accessible via a path past Dias Cross or a hike from Gifkommetjie.
The beach has white sand and great views, and I’ve seen ostriches and baboons here, which adds to the wild feel! It’s ideal for activities like kite flying and windsurfing, but it’s recommended only for experienced individuals due to the strong winds.
While swimming isn’t advised because of the isolated location, wading is possible. Additionally, the area is excellent for birdwatching, taking photos, walking, and having picnics, but be cautious of the baboons!
| Pro Tip: Enjoy sandboarding down the dunes for some fun. Also, explore the rocky areas along the beach edge, where you’ll find interesting rock pools. |
Queen’s Beach
Media from siddhesh_2708
Queen’s Beach is a secluded spot among the Sea Point Promenade’s more frequented areas. This urban beach is valued for its relative privacy and its proximity to local amenities.
When I visited with my family, I noticed how the wind-sheltered area made it really comfortable for us to spend the whole day there.
The shallow water among the rocks was perfect for a quick dip, and we had a lot of fun exploring the rock pools, where we even spotted some starfish. It’s also a great spot to just relax—whether you want to soak up the sun or get lost in a good book.
| Pro Tip: The beach is just a short drive from the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, the City Bowl, Bo-Kaap, and the CTICC. This makes it a convenient stop after exploring nearby attractions. |
Sandy Bay
Media from best_bester_bestest
I recently visited Sandy Bay Beach, a well-known spot for no-clothes sunbathing hidden behind sand dunes in Hout Bay. The beach is naturally split into sections by rock formations, and one part is particularly popular with the gay community.
The beach size varies with the ocean’s waves, but even on busier days, I always found a peaceful spot on the surrounding boulders to enjoy the view of the powerful sea.
To reach this secluded spot, you’ll need to take a leisurely 20-minute walk from a small parking area in Llandudno. Since parking can fill up quickly, it’s a good idea to get there early.
| Pro Tip: In high summer, keep an eye out for Cape cobra snakes, which can be seen moving between the rocks and trees. If you spot one, remain still until it passes to stay safe. |
Scarborough Beach
Media from mrhudsonexplores
Scarborough Beach is a popular spot worth the drive from the city, mostly frequented by locals and surfers. It’s really well looked after by the people who live there.
I love going to this beach because it has a large area of clean white sand and clear blue water, all surrounded by mountains. If you have a dog, you can bring it along, but you’ll need to get a permit for R320 since it’s part of a national park.
There are cool rock pools to check out, lots of room for sports, and it’s perfect for windsurfing or flying kites because of the strong winds. But if you’re thinking of swimming, you need to be careful because there can be strong currents.
| Pro Tip: Be cautious while swimming, as rip currents can occasionally occur near the shore. Always stay aware of the water conditions to ensure your safety. |
Silverstroomstrand
Media from remcoopkins
Silverstroomstrand is a cool Blue Flag beach resort. It’s known for its clean and safe swimming conditions, and there’s even a tidal pool with warmer water.
I’ve found the mix of natural beauty and practical amenities really appealing. There are restrooms, playgrounds, picnic spots, barbecue areas, and lifeguard services, which makes it a great choice for families.
The beach is part of the West Coast Biosphere Reserve, so you know the surroundings are totally protected. Plus, there’s a protected swimming area in the Atlantic Ocean, long stretches of gorgeous white sand beaches, and lots of cool wildlife to check out.
| Pro Tip: Bring your fishing gear in January or February to take advantage of the excellent shore angling for Hottentot fish. |
Sunset Beach
Media from capetown_landscapes
I’ve spent some time at Sunset Beach, and it’s a great spot if you enjoy relaxing walks on a clean, white sand beach. I’ve found it’s perfect for bringing along your dog for a day of fun.
What I love about it is the view of Table Mountain without the crowds you find at busier beaches like Melkbos and Big Bay. Additionally, I enjoyed a quiet afternoon sunbathing and swimming.
If you’re into windsurfing, you’ll be pleased to know it’s considered one of the top locations in the world for the sport. It’s also a fantastic place to bring your dog for a run along the shore.
| Pro Tip: You can collect mussels there by first getting a permit from the Post Office, which costs R57. Be sure to obtain this permit before you start picking. |
Water’s Edge Beach
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Water’s Edge Beach is a peaceful alternative to the nearby busier beaches, nestled between Seaforth and Boulders Beaches. It offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty without the crowds.
The beach is well-protected from strong winds, which makes for a relaxing day. I enjoyed a picnic there, and the natural shade and nooks were perfect for kids to play and build sandcastles.
The swimming conditions here are safe, which is a plus for families and the rock pools are full of marine life to explore. On my visit, I even spotted a few penguins wandering around, which added a special touch to this quiet bay.
| Pro Tip: To ensure a spot at the beach, it’s wise to arrive early; the beach caps its daily visitors at 250. |
Windmill Beach
Media from iamwater_foundation
Windmill Beach is nestled behind the golf course in Simon’s Town, with granite boulders creating a cosy swimming spot. The shallow water makes it ideal for families with kids to enjoy the colourful underwater world.
If you need a break from the sun, you’ll find plenty of shady spots under the trees.
I recommend this place for beginners interested in snorkelling, diving, and kayaking because of the diverse reef.
One of the highlights of my visit to Windmill Beach is the chance to spot some local wildlife. I’m lucky to spot Cape clawless otters near the Boulders parking lot.
| Pro Tip: If you want to snorkel, visit the middle channel during high tide and when the swell is low. For a chance to see larger fish like red roman, go to the south channel. |
