Camps Bay Beach: Cape Town’s Iconic White Sand Paradise

An image of a Camps Bay Beach with white sand, blue waters, palm trees, mountains, and fluffy clouds.
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Camps Bay Beach is a favorite hangout in Cape Town, with its wide stretch of soft white sand and clear blue water. Camps Bay Beach is a great spot to relax, play beach games, or take a stroll along the shore, making it the perfect family location. The beachfront is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafés, so you can easily grab a drink or a meal while soaking up the ocean views. Whether you’re here to sunbathe, catch the sunset, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

About

An image of Cape Town’s Lion’s Head peak overlooking the Camps Bay Beach, with vegetation, vast ocean, and clear skies.

Photo Hansueli Krapf / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Camps Bay Beach, located in Cape Town, South Africa, is a renowned destination celebrated for its expansive white sands and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled beneath the Twelve Apostles mountain range, it offers a striking contrast between ocean and rugged peaks. Historically, Camps Bay was inhabited by the indigenous Khoisan people before European settlers arrived in the 17th century. Over time, it transformed from a farming community into a sought-after seaside suburb, attracting visitors worldwide.

Location Of Camps Bay Beach

An image of the lively coastal area of Camps Bay Beach, with palm trees, a beach, bustling street, and mountain backdrop.

Photo Kotivalo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Situated approximately 15 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre, Camps Bay lies along the Atlantic Seaboard. Its prime location provides easy access to both urban attractions and natural landscapes, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

How To Reach Camps Bay Beach

An image of a sunset over the rocky coastline of the Camps Bay Beach, with vivid orange, red hues, and crashing waves.

Photo Simisa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

By Car: A short drive from Cape Town’s central business district along Victoria Road leads directly to Camps Bay.

By Public Transport: MyCiTi buses operate regular routes from the city centre to Camps Bay, offering an affordable and scenic journey.

By Taxi or Rideshare: Services like Uber are readily available throughout Cape Town, providing convenient access to Camps Bay.

Places To Visit Near Camps Bay Beach

Here are ten noteworthy places to visit around the Camps Bay Beach:

1. Table Mountain, Cableway

An image of rugged grey rocks surrounded by moss, bushes, and grasses in the Table Mountain, near the Camps Bay Beach.

Photo PHParsons / Wikimedia Commons

A short drive from Camps Bay Beach, Table Mountain is one of Cape Town’s most famous sights. You can hike up or take the cable car to the top, where you’ll get sweeping views of the city, ocean, and rugged landscapes. The mountain is rich in plant and animal life, with well-marked trails for those who enjoy exploring nature. Whether you’re up for an adventure or just want to take in the scenery, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone in Cape Town.

Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Built: Natural formation, millions of years old
Dimensions: 1,085 metres above sea level

2. Lion’s Head

An image of the Lion’s Head mountain peak near the ocean, veiled by flowing clouds, with ships nearby.

Photo Hansueli Krapf / Wikimedia Commons

Lying close to Camps Bay, Lion’s Head is a busy hiking spot and renowned for spectacular views of sunrises and sunsets. The moderate, hour-long walk up to the summit offers a 360-degree panorama of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. The hike at full-moon time is well-known and is visited both by locals and foreigners.

Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Built: Natural formation
Dimensions: 669 metres above sea level
Entry Fee: Free

3. Clifton Beaches

An image of a crowded Clifton beach, featuring colourful umbrellas, sunbathers, swimmers, clear blue waters, and rocky coastline.

Photo South African Tourism / Wikimedia Commons

Only a short walk from Camps Bay, Clifton Beaches are an assortment of four breathtaking coves, each distinguished by enormous granite boulders. Soft white sand and aqua-blue, turquoise waters make these beaches their charm. As the ocean remains cold throughout the year, an adventurous place known as Clifton exists that can offer a warmer experience to enjoy the beaches.

Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Built: Natural beaches
Dimensions: Four beaches along the coastline

4. Theatre On The Bay

An image of the Theatre on the Bay interior with red seats, one occupant, ornate walls, balcony, and empty stage.

Photo Vika Glitter / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Located along the Camps Bay strip, Theatre on the Bay is a charming venue showcasing an array of performances, from comedy shows to dramatic plays and musicals. The intimate setting makes for a unique cultural experience, with a diverse lineup of local and international productions. Visitors can enjoy a night of entertainment just steps away from the beach.

Location: Camps Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
Built: 1988
Dimensions: Small, intimate theatre space

5. Victoria And Alfred Waterfront

An image of the aerial view of the V&A waterfront featuring large ships, smaller boats, docks, industrial buildings, and background fog.

Photo TapticInfo / Wikimedia Commons

Within a short drive from Camps Bay, Victoria and Alfred, V&A Waterfront is an active harbour precinct with shopping, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. Travelers can browse boutique shops, indulge in fresh seafood, or have a boat tour of the bay. The waterfront also has the Two Oceans Aquarium and is an excellent place for families and art enthusiasts.

Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Dimensions: Covers a large section of the harbour
Timings: Open daily

Where To Stay

An image of a well-lit hotel room featuring a large bed, sofa, desk, balcony, and sea view, resembling the hotels available near the Camps Bay Beach.

Photo Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Camps Bay offers a variety of accommodations for different budgets and travel styles. Luxury hotels like The Marly provide ocean views and premium amenities for a high-end stay. Boutique guesthouses offer a more personal experience in quieter areas, while self-catering apartments with modern conveniences are ideal for those looking for flexibility. Many options are within walking distance of the beach and local attractions.

Where To Eat

An image of a fine dining table set with white plates, silverware, a wine glass, and a coffee cup, resembling the restaurants available near Camps Bay Beach.

Photo Igor Starkov / Pexels / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Camps Bay’s beachfront promenade is lined with many restaurants which offer a range of dining experiences from upscale dining to local stands. La Belle is a great spot for breakfast or a relaxed meal with ocean views. Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh dishes at Paranga, known for its refined atmosphere. For an evening out, Chinchilla’s rooftop bar is a popular choice for cocktails and sunset views.

Best Time To Visit Camps Bay Beach

An image of Camps Bay Beach, with sparkling ocean views, surrounded by rugged greenery, seen from the summit of Table Mountain.

Photo Tjeerd Wiersma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Repreentation Only

The most suitable time to visit Camps Bay Beach is between Cape Town’s December and February summer months. This is when the beach is most crowded, with hot weather and numerous activities. For less crowded conditions, visit in November or March when crowds dissipate but conditions remain inviting for beach trips.

Other Factors To Consider

An image of a beautiful coastal town at Camps Bay Beach with palm trees all around.

Photo Matthias Bethke / Wikimedia Common

Average Cost Of Trip

A trip to Camps Bay Beach tends to be expensive, as it is known for its upscale hotels, restaurants, and beachfront properties. Mid-range travellers should budget around R2,000–R3,500 daily for accommodation, dining, and transport. High-end options can cost significantly more, while budget travellers can find affordable stays and meals in nearby suburbs like Sea Point or Green Point. Self-catering apartments and casual eateries also help cut costs, making it possible to experience Camps Bay without stretching your budget too far.

Tips For Travellers

  • The Atlantic waters stay chilly year-round, so expect a refreshing swim even in summer.
  • The sun can be strong at Camps Bay, therefore keep sun essentials like sunglasses and sunscreen handy and a hat to avoid sunburn.
  • Camps Bay Beach is generally safe, but it’s best not to leave valuables unattended.
  • The beach gets busy, especially on weekends, so coming early ensures you get a comfortable place to relax.

A trip to Camps Bay Beach is a great way to enjoy the coast of Cape Town. The wide stretch of sand, clear water, and views of the Twelve Apostles make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. You can relax by the shore, explore nearby cafés and restaurants, or take a walk along the promenade. Plan your visit with TripXL and spend an exciting time at Camps Bay Beach.

Cover Photo Nithin bolar k / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The summer months from December to February are the busiest, with warm weather and long days. For a quieter experience, early mornings or the shoulder months of November and March are good options.
Yes, there are public restrooms, outdoor showers, and nearby restaurants and cafés. You can also rent umbrellas and chairs during the busy season.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Owners should clean up after their pets to keep the beach clean for others.
Yes, activities like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular. Rentals and lessons are available nearby.
There are ramps leading to the beach, and some restaurants along the promenade have wheelchair-friendly facilities.

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