The Liquid Side of Cape Town

Description:

One of the most beautiful drives in the world, Cape Town's Chapmans Peak Drive is a spectacular 10 km coastal drive linking Noordhoek to Hout Bay. In spring (Sept-November) Southern Right Whales can be spotted in Hout Bay. Year round there are stunning views from numerous viewpoints and picnic spots. A trail to Chapman's Peak itself starts just before the highest viewpoint on Chapman's Peak Drive. If the road is closed or if one only wants to access the portion of the road closer to Hout Bay, a complimentary day pass can be acquired from the toll booth.

Our Local Expert Says:

The local favorite- great breads and tasty bits at the bakery around the corner, seafood and other staples in the ever overcrowded restaurant with views of the harbor.

Description:

Just across from the Kalk Bay Harbour is this popular local hangout offering everything from breakfast, pastries, and cakes to tasty dinner entrees. Expect a wait, especially on weekends as the whole community drops in. Around the corner the bakery offers fresh breads, spreads, and pastries.

Our Local Expert Says:

For anyone who has ever wanted to try surfing, this is the beach to do it on. Claiming to be one of the most beginner friendly in the world, there are plenty of surf schools around to introduce you to the waves. Watch out when the Southeaster is blowing though, best to stay away from Muizenberg then.

Description:

Just at the northern end of False Bay, Muizenberg is a popular surfing and kite surfing spot, especially for beginners. The beach itself continues eastward and is popular for walkers on weekends.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you want to enjoy a sunset horseback ride on the beach, this is the place to do it. Also great surfing near the Chapman's Peak side . If you are going to take a long walk, check with the locals about safety.

Description:

Based at the southern end of Chapman's Peak Drive, Noodhoek beach is well known to locals, horseriders, kite flyers, and the like. The longest of any of the Atlantic Seaboard beaches, Noordhoek offers great sunset views and hours of walking. Watch out for windy days though, the beach is exposed and the sand can whip up.

Description:

The charming character of this small village of white cottages set amongst large oak trees makes it an ideal venue for a relaxing afternoon. Soak up the sun while enjoying a leisurely lunch at the Enchanting Wood restaurant, housed in the historical Welteverden Cottage, or have a drink at the fully licensed Nag's Head Stable pub.

The farm stall also serves light meals and has a delicious range of fresh farm produce and organically grown vegetables for sale. There is a gallery displaying the work of many local artists, a jeweller and a range of quality craft shops selling African handicrafts, wooden furniture, beautiful handmade glassware and ethnic clothing. The garden has a play area for children.

Description:

At the far end of Noodhoek beach where the bay turns northward lies Kommetjie. A popular surf spot for experienced surfers, Kommetjie is far enough from Cape Town to avoid masses of sunbathers. Along the reef, crayfishing is popular here for those with permits.

Our Local Expert Says:

A setting for everyone- pub style pizza with ocean views, relaxed fish and chips or lunches on another deck, upscale restaurant upstairs. When the surf is big, the water breaks on the restaurant wall.

Description:

Three restaurants in one, this popular local restaurant has an upscale establishmet upstairs with views across the bay, a more low key patio dining area with clear barriers to protect guests from winds and waves, and an even more low key bar/pizza area. Food is good, the setting is stunning, and the locals are friendly. Enjoy whale watching while you have a leisurely lunch or dinner!

Our Local Expert Says:

A lovely little beach bordering on Cape Point Reserve, this is a beach for those who enjoy the sea rather than those who enjoy people watching. On a windy day, it’s a fantastic spot to watch serious kite-surfers.

Description:

The last beach on the Atlantic Seaboard before reaching Cape Point, Scarborough beach is a lovely little stretch of sand and rock. Extremely popular among very experienced kite surfers, expect a show of jumps, flips, and turns by this crowd on windy days. The village itself is small and has only one restaurant and no shops.

Our Local Expert Says:

Hands down the best fish and chips in the entire peninsula. Far more than your basic fried hake and chips- expect large servings, a variety of seafood, and good ol' harbor atmosphere.

Description:

Across from the fancy restaurants in the Kalk Bay Harbour, this fish and chips shop has a menu larger than many restaurants and serves only the freshest of seafood. Huge portion sizes are served to locals who value good seafood at great prices to cutlery and tablecloths. Indoor and outdoor seating right in the harbour.

Description:

Come and experience the wonders of diving in the waters of False Bay and Hout Bay with the experienced and fully trained staff of Scuba Shack. You will get a chance to enjoy, both the cold Atlantic and the warmer Indian oceans. These oceans are where you will be able to experience the thrill of wreck diving two naval frigates (warships) as you have the time of your life! The choice is yours to book the time of your life. Scuba Shack offers dive charters (night dives, wreck dives and day dives), PADI dive courses, equipment hire, diving lessons and air fills.