Top Beaches in South Africa

A windswept and beautiful coast is the face that South Africa presents to the world – at turns tempestuous and tamed, stormy and sublime. It spans two oceans as it winds its way down the Atlantic seaboard in the west and up into the warmer Indian Ocean waters to the east.

With more than 2850km (1770 miles) of coastline, there are numerous beautiful beaches to explore. While Cape Town is celebrated for its stunning beaches, there are many other noteworthy destinations along South Africa’s expansive coastline, from remote strands tucked away in national parks to top surfing spots on the Sunshine Coast.

Visiting South Africa’s beaches at the right time of year offers everything from sunbathing to surfing and whale-watching. Here’s a guide to the best beaches in South Africa.

Bloubergstrand, Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs

Best beach for kite-surfing and windsurfing

Bloubergstrand boasts a stunning view of Table Mountain across Table Bay. This beach is highly popular among kite-surfers and windsurfers, making it a vibrant spot on weekends. A poetic name, it means “blue mountain beach”.

Dolphin Beach, Jeffrey’s Bay, Sunshine Coast

Best beach for surfers

Known as one of the world’s top surfing destinations, Jeffrey’s Bay attracts surfers from around the globe to ride its iconic Supertubes. During the peak season, families flock to Dolphin Beach, which is safe for swimming and features lifeguards on duty.

Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town, Cape Town

Best beach for penguin-watching

Boulders Beach is renowned for its remarkable colony of African penguins. Visitors can enjoy ample opportunities for viewing these delightful creatures while strolling along accessible boardwalks that lead to the beach.

Golden Mile, Durban

Best beach for activities

Durban’s Golden Mile is a vibrant beach promenade extending along the coastline. Bay of Plenty Beach at its heart is often filled with sunbathers and offers diverse beach sports activities.

Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town

Best beach for European-style vacationing

Muizenberg Beach is well-known for its historical Victorian bathing cabins and favorable surfing conditions. The eastern beaches offer warmer waters, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.

Cape Vidal, Eastern Shores, the Elephant Coast

Best beach for a bush-and-beach experience

Cape Vidal offers an excellent mix of beach enjoyment and wildlife viewing within the stunning iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This area is characterized by its beautiful coastal dunes and inviting waters.

Kings Beach, Gqeberha, Eastern Cape

Best beach for sunbathing

Kings Beach in Gqeberha offers an inviting environment for sunbathing while providing safe swimming conditions at the river mouth for those who prefer calmer waters.

Noordhoek, Cape Town

Best beach for breezy, unspoiled beauty

Noordhoek Beach features a magnificent stretch that appeals to surfers and horse riders, although the ocean conditions deter many swimmers.

Langebaan Beach, West Coast National Park

Best beach for sunsets

Langebaan Beach, located at the mouth of the Langebaan Lagoon, is favored for its breathtaking views and a wide range of water sports.

Kraalbaai Beach, Western Cape

Best beach for paradise seekers

Kraalbaai Beach provides a stunning setting with shallow, warm waters ideal for swimming and fantastic opportunities for various water activities.

Clifton 4th Beach and Camps Bay, Cape Town

Best beach for romance

Clifton 4th Beach stands out for romantic picnics and its family-friendly atmosphere during the day. Camps Bay, nearby, adds to the allure with its stunning backdrop.

Mabibi Beach, KwaZulu-Natal

Best beach for snorkeling

Mabibi Beach in iSimangaliso Wetland Park offers stunning views and is ideal for swimming and snorkeling on its beautiful coral reefs.

Second Beach, Port St Johns, Wild Coast

Best beach for a local vibe

Second Beach captures the essence of Port St Johns, with a vibrant local atmosphere and ample opportunity for relaxation on soft sands.

Platboom Beach, Western Cape

Best beach for random wildlife

Platboom Beach is a hidden gem where you can sunbathe, kitesurf, and encounter various wildlife, making it a unique beach experience.

Gonubie Beach, Eastern Cape

Best beach for little kids

Gonubie Beach is ideal for families, featuring a scenic tidal pool perfect for young children and various amenities for picnics and relaxation.

Robberg Beach, Western Cape

Best beach for long, long walks

Robberg Beach is celebrated for its stunning scenery and is perfect for long walks, providing access to natural reserves and diverse wildlife watching.

Nahoon Beach, East London, Eastern Cape

Best beach for championship surfing

Nahoon Beach is popular among surfers and sunbathers, featuring reliable surf breaks and safe swimming conditions along its sandy shores.

Coffee Bay, Wild Coast

Best beach for hikers

Coffee Bay is a key Wild Coast stop for backpackers, offering breathtaking hiking experiences along its scenic shoreline.

Bordjiesdrif Beach, Western Cape

Best beach for braaiing

Bordjiesdrif, overlooking False Bay, is the perfect seaside spot for a traditional South African braai, offering beautiful views and family-friendly amenities.