Our Top 10 Favourite Beaches in South Africa
1. Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town
Just a short drive from Cape Town’s city centre, Camps Bay Beach is backed by the towering Twelve Apostles and lined with trendy cafés and cocktail bars. It’s a favourite for both tourists and locals who come for the sun, sand, and spectacular views.
Why Go?
- Scenic backdrop of mountains and ocean
- Lively strip of bars, restaurants, and ice cream vendors
- Great spot to watch the sunset with a drink in hand
Plan your visit to Camps Bay Beach
2. Clifton Beaches, Cape Town
Clifton is made up of four separate beaches, each separated by large granite boulders. With soft white sand and calm, turquoise water, it’s a top choice for swimming and sunbathing – especially on windier days when the coves offer natural shelter.
Why Go?
- Calm waters ideal for swimming
- Exclusive atmosphere popular with locals and celebrities
- Some of Cape Town’s best sunset views
Read more about the Clifton Beaches
3. Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town
Home to a colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach is not your typical beach day. Shallow waters, fascinating rock formations, and the novelty of sharing the sand with waddling penguins make this a standout family destination.
Why Go?
- See African penguins in their natural habitat
- Safe, shallow water for kids
- Unique blend of wildlife and coastal scenery
Learn about Boulders Beach and penguin viewing
4. Noordhoek Beach, Cape Town
Wild and windswept, Noordhoek Beach is a 6-kilometre stretch of sand that’s perfect for long walks, horse riding, and watching the waves roll in. It’s less crowded than many Cape Town beaches, making it feel more remote.
Why Go?
- Great for beach walks and solitude
- Popular spot for horse riding along the shoreline
- Surrounded by natural fynbos and mountain views
Plan your day at Noordhoek Beach
5. Llandudno Beach, Cape Town
Tucked between steep cliffs and large granite boulders, Llandudno feels like a hidden gem. The surf is strong, the beach is uncommercialised, and the sunsets are jaw-dropping.
Why Go?
- Peaceful, natural setting with no shops or development
- A favourite for surfing and sunbathing
- Gorgeous setting with dramatic rocks and crystal waters
See what makes Llandudno special
6. Santos Beach, Mossel Bay
Located along the popular Garden Route, Santos Beach is a Blue Flag beach known for its calm waters, clean sands, and family-friendly vibe. It’s one of the few beaches in South Africa where you can swim safely without worrying about strong currents.
Why Go?
- Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safety
- Calm waters ideal for young children and relaxed swimming
- Close to Mossel Bay attractions and restaurants
- Spectacular sunrises
7. Umhlanga Rocks, KwaZulu-Natal
Umhlanga offers a combination of warm Indian Ocean waters, a laid-back holiday vibe, and a lively promenade. Expect plenty of swimmers, joggers, families, and surfers enjoying this beachfront suburb just north of Durban.
Why Go?
- Great for swimming and water sports
- Close to shops, hotels, and restaurants
- Lively yet family-friendly atmosphere
8. Ballito Beach, KwaZulu-Natal
Ballito is popular with families and Durban locals looking for a weekend getaway. The beach has calm tidal pools, a long beachfront walkway, and excellent swimming areas.
Why Go?
- Family-friendly with lifeguards and calm swimming zones
- Great rock pools for kids to explore marine life
- Scenic promenade with coffee shops and restaurants
9. Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
With its postcard-perfect view of Table Mountain across the bay, Bloubergstrand is popular with photographers, kite surfers, and beachgoers looking for open space and fresh air. On a windy day, the sky fills with colourful kites.
Why Go?
- Iconic Table Mountain view
- Excellent conditions for kite surfing
- Long beach great for walking, jogging, and picnics
10. Hobie Beach, Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth
Located near the Boardwalk in Gqeberha, Hobie Beach is a safe, well-maintained spot for families and water sports enthusiasts. It’s known for events like Ironman South Africa and offers easy access to shops and restaurants.
Why Go?
- Calm water and safe swimming areas
- Kayaking, jet skiing, and other water sports
- Walking distance to entertainment and dining
Planning Your Coastal Adventure
From penguin encounters to horseback rides on the sand, South Africa’s beaches offer a world of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re chasing waves, swimming with the kids, or soaking up the sun with a view, there’s a perfect beach waiting for you.
Use the links above to plan your stops, and check local tourism sites for seasonal information, weather conditions, and safety tips.
Save and share this guide to help other travellers find their next beach adventure, and follow Hello Adventure on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube for more!
