The history of vacationing in Cape Town, particularly for its beautiful beaches, is a tale that goes back centuries. Cape Town’s natural beauty and temperate climate have long been a magnet for travelers seeking relaxation, and adventure, in a unique setting like South Africa.
Cape Town’s stunning coastline, framed by the majestic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, is a dream destination for beach lovers and travelers seeking the perfect seaside escape. The city is best known for its array of pristine beaches and its coastal atmosphere; Cape Town offers an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable beachfront getaways.
In this guide, you can explore the city’s backstory, its status as a beachfront mecca, and some of the best beachfront hotels in Cape Town, giving you all the information you need to plan your perfect stay.
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A History Of Holiday-Making at Beachfront Hotels in Cape Town
As South Africa transitioned into a democratic nation in the 1990s, Cape Town’s popularity as a global tourist destination surged. Travelers from all over the world flocked to the city, drawn not only to its scenic beauty but also its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and flourishing wine industry – all of which remains today. The city’s beaches, dramatically framed by Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, became an integral part of this tourism boom.
The city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and its commitment to environmental preservation made it an ideal place for beachfront holidays, with a twist of good food, great people and beautiful, untouched and untamed landscapes.
Booking Your Beachfront Stay
When planning your trip to Cape Town, book with a trusted flight operator. Bundling your flight, accommodation and any useful add-ons like car hire into one booking not only saves you the time of hunting down packages but also can help you locate savings and special offers, via the booking companies.
It’s a good idea to arrange your accommodations in specific areas like Camps Bay and Sea Point. This can be done easily nowadays, by booking both your flight and hotel with eDreams, and similar bundle-booking travel sites, where you’ll be able to select your hotel close to the best beach areas, in-line with your inbound and outbound flights, instead of booking each step of your trip individually.
Using travel sites like these saves money, time, energy and is much more convenient for travelling group. Once you’re singular booking is sorted, you can focus on planning activites, transportation, beach days and excursions, instead.
For your chosen flight, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the primary gateway to the city and one of the busiest airports in Africa. It’s well-connected to major international airports, making it relatively easy to access from around the world. Here’s some information on flights to Cape Town:
- International Flights: Cape Town International Airport receives flights from major international cities, including London, New York, Amsterdam, Dubai, Frankfurt, and many others. Airlines like British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, and South African Airways operate regular routes to Cape Town.
- Domestic Flights: If you’re already in South Africa or nearby countries, you can opt for domestic flights to Cape Town. Major cities like Johannesburg, Durban, and Port Elizabeth have regular flights to Cape Town. Domestic airlines like South African Airways, Mango, and Kulula serve these routes.
- Flight Duration: The flight duration to Cape Town can vary significantly depending on your departure location. For example, direct flights from London to Cape Town take approximately 11-12 hours, flights from New York are closer to 4-4.5 hours, while flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town take around two hours.
Transport Links from the Airport to the City
Cape Town International Airport is conveniently located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the city center. Several transportation options are available to get you from the airport to your accommodation in Cape Town. These can include Airport Shuttle Services, Metered Taxis, Car Rentals, MyCiTi Airport Buses, Uber, and Private Transfers.
Plan your transportation from the airport to your accommodation in advance, especially if you arrive late at night or during peak travel seasons, and if you’ve got kids with you. Cape Town’s transportation options are generally safe and efficient, making it relatively easy to navigate the city from the airport, and one of the best cities visit with your whole family.
Armed with the knowledge of how to get there, where to look, and where to book your hotel and flights, you’re ready to make the most of your Cape Town adventure. With that in mind, let’s dive into the beaches you should consider booking nearby.
Top Beaches in Cape Town
- Camps Bay Beach: With its pristine white sands and backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Camps Bay Beach is one of Cape Town’s most iconic destinations. The beach is not only ideal for sunbathing and swimming but also offers a vibrant promenade with trendy cafes and restaurants.
- Clifton Beaches: The Clifton Beaches consist of four small coves with soft, wind-free sands. These beaches are known for their Blue Flag status and crystal-clear waters, making them a popular spot for sun worshippers.
- Boulders Beach: Located in Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach is famous for its resident African penguin colony. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of sharing the beach with these charming birds, making it an ideal family destination.
- Muizenberg Beach: Renowned for its colorful beach huts and gentle waves, Muizenberg Beach is perfect for beginner surfers and families. It’s also a great spot for strolling along the iconic pier.
Now that you know where to go to see the beauty of Cape Town’s beaches, take a look at some of the best beachfront hotels offering the most remarkable views and best resorts to make the most of the city.
Where to Stay in Cape Town
The Marly Boutique Hotel
The Marly Boutique Hotel, nestled in the heart of Camps Bay, is a luxurious beachfront escape that offers unparalleled ocean views. Each room features a private balcony, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. With Camps Bay Beach just steps away, you can easily enjoy sun-soaked days and romantic evenings by the sea.
The Royal Portfolio – The Silo Hotel
The Silo Hotel, located in the vibrant V&A Waterfront, has a prime location with panoramic views of Table Mountain and the harbor. This unique property combines industrial-chic design with opulent luxury. The Silo’s rooftop offers a splendid vantage point to savor the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
Nestled between the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, this award-winning hotel provides an intimate and luxurious retreat. Guests can unwind in style, looking out over the azure waters from their private terraces or while enjoying a meal at Azure Restaurant.
The Bay Hotel
Situated in Camps Bay, The Bay Hotel offers stunning views of the ocean and direct access to the beach. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at Sandy B, the hotel’s private beach club, or relaxing in your room, you’ll be treated to vistas of the coastline.
Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront
Perched right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront provides an ideal blend of luxury and convenience. With direct access to a private marina and unparalleled ocean views, this hotel offers a tranquil escape just minutes from the city center.
President Hotel Cape Town
Situated in the cosmopolitan suburb of Bantry Bay, the President Hotel has a stunning seaside location. Guests can savor delicious cuisine at The Islands Restaurant while taking in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Sea Point Beachfront Apartment
For those seeking a more private and self-catering experience, Sea Point Beachfront Apartment offers a comfortable and affordable option. Located in the bustling Sea Point area, this apartment provides easy access to the Sea Point Promenade and its scenic views.
Top Tips for Getting the Most from Cape Town
You didn’t think you’d be left you high and dry with no help on what to do in Cape Town, did you? Here are some great options for your trip.
- Visit Table Mountain: Take the cable car or hike up Table Mountain for unparalleled views of the city and the surrounding coastline. Sunsets here are particularly impressive.
- Wine Tasting: South Africa is renowned for its wines. Plan a day trip to the nearby Winelands, such as Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, to sample some of the country’s finest wines.
- Historical Sites: Don’t miss Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and the District Six Museum for a glimpse into South Africa’s history.
- Dining Out: Cape Town offers a diverse culinary scene. Try traditional South African dishes like bobotie or enjoy fresh seafood at a waterside restaurant.
- Local Culture: Engage with the local culture by visiting townships like Khayelitsha and taking part in guided tours that offer insights into the lives of residents.
- Public Transportation: Consider using MyCiTi buses or Uber for convenient and safe transportation around the city. You can find your way around using apps like Citymapper, which offer live updates and options including only AC-installed transport and avoiding major highways.
- Weather: Cape Town experiences different weather patterns. Summers (December to February) are warm and ideal for beach activities, while winters (June to August) are cooler and suitable for exploring the city’s cultural attractions.
Cape Town’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history are only part of what makes it a destination that beckons travelers from around the world. Often referred to as the “Mother City”, nestled at the southern tip of South Africa, this is a large city that caters to all. That’s why it demands careful planning for a visit to be enjoyed fully. As you can see from the above, neighborhoods and accommodations suiting any taste and group size are available, so there’s plenty of choices for an adventure that suits you best.
Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat by the sea, exhilarating water sports, or a vibrant social scene, Cape Town has it all. To fully savor this coastal paradise, consider staying in one of the exquisite beachfront hotels in Cape Town that offer not only luxury and comfort but those unforgettable, breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
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