The coast is one of the main draws for Cape Town holidays. Learn more about the major highlights.

Highlights of the Cape Town Coast

On Cape Town holidays, you enjoy a great variety of different experiences. There are iconic sites, such as Robben Island, for those with an interest in the political history of the country, fine wines and quality dining for the gourmets, vibrant nightclubs for the party crowd, and some glorious local countryside to explore if you like to get out into the wild.

Undoubtedly, however, it is Cape Town's position on the coast that is one of the chief attractions of the city. Uniquely placed in between the Indian and the Atlantic oceans, whether you want to go surfing or swimming, lounge on the beach and catch some rays, or just sip wine and enjoy a meal on the waterfront, you'll be able to enjoy the Cape Town coast in your own personal way.

Here are some of the highlights of this superb coastline...

V&A Waterfront

This outstanding development, built into the existing Cape Town harbour, is truly one of the highlights of the city. With hundreds of shops, bars, restaurants and hotels built stylishly right on the waterfront, it has fast become the vibrant centre of the city, and one of the most popular places to visit on Cape Town holidays. Best of all, the business of the harbour continues as usual, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to see ships coming and going into the port.

False Bay

This epic bay on the Indian Ocean, which at 33 kilometres in length is one of the longest natural bays in the world, is a wonderful place to visit during your Cape Town holidays. It isn't as developed or as trendy as the Atlantic Ocean coastline, but this makes it perfect for people looking to have a more peaceful and relaxing trip to the sea. There are a huge number of places to go on False Bay, but some of the highlights include the fishing village of Kalk Bay, the naval base of Simon's Town, tranquil Fish Hoek beach, and the penguin-filled Boulders Beach. Swimming, surfing and scuba diving are very popular along the entire length of the bay.

Camps Bay

If you like a lively time on the beach, Camps Bay is the place to go to. This chic part of Cape Town has numerous beaches, and an impressive array of restaurants and beach bars to keep you entertained. It isn't the place to go for peace and seclusion, but for a vibrant and exciting beach holiday, a visit to Camps Bay is essential. Scuba divers are also drawn to Camps Bay, as the popular dive site at Lui Bay features not one but two genuine ship wrecks.

Sunset Beach

You are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a beach on Cape Town holidays, but for sheer spectacle, it is hard to beat Sunset Beach. It has stunning views of Table Mountain and Robben Island, and the immaculate beach is a beautiful sight in its own right. Sports enthusiasts will be in heaven here – enormous waves make it ideal for kite, wind, and ordinary surfing. Finally, of course, there is the unforgettable opportunity to watch the sun set from this most perfect of beaches.