It’s not exactly a secret – Cape Town’s coast is home to some pretty epic beaches. But if you’re going to be really selective, then it’s Blue Flag all the way, baby.
Beaches worldwide are awarded this international stamp of approval if they conform to strict standards in terms of environmental education and management, water quality and safety and services. SA has a whopping total of 45 Blue Flag beaches. These are our five fave in the Mother City…
Clifton
You’ll hear locals talking about ‘4th’, which is the most popular of Clifton’s beaches. In essence Clifton is one stretch of sand, but it’s divided by huge granite boulders into four sections. 4th – the blue flag stretch – is the place to see and be seen.
Camps Bay
The palm-lined promenade of Camps Bay is as packed with trendy eateries and bars as the beach is with sun-kissed bodies, watched over by Lion’s Head and The Twelve Apostles.
Llandudno
On the way from the city to Hout Bay lies one of our most gorgeous sections of coastline. Llandudno is perfect for catching a tan away from the masses on the Camps Bay and Clifton side, and is popular with surfers as well. Sunsets here are magnificent.
Muizenberg
Colourful beach huts cue your approach to this family-friendly beach, where gentle waves accommodate little swimmers and surfers make the most of the longest break in False Bay. Walking the promenade with two scoops of gelato in hand is a great way to spend a family Sunday.
Bikini Beach
This Gordon’s Bay beach is a bit more of a drive from the CBD, but is famed for its powdery sand, warm water and the legions of bikini-clad students from Stellenbosch University, who flock here for a little sunbathing.