Top local secrets in Cape Town

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

An idyllic, hidden beach off the beaten tourist track, Llandudno is a great place to marvel at the unending beauty of Cape Town.

Description:

A small, beautiful, boulder bordered beach along the Atlantic Seaboard, Llandudno beach is a local favorite among the surfers and nature lovers. Its secluded location tends to keep Cape Town's wind away and its lack of cafes and bars keeps the Camps Bay beach scene away. The boulders on the northern side of Llandudno beach offer a fun scenic walk. Llandudno is a great place to watch the sunset over the ocean with the mountain backdrop glowing red.

Description:

Overlooking the Cape Flats, False Bay, and Noordhoek, the two sections of Silvermine offer hiking, mountain biking (in one section only), rock climbing, and bouldering. Part of the Table Mountain National Park, Silvermine feels like it should be hours from any city yet is in the middle of it all.

Our Local Expert Says:

Although the most popular route up Table Mountain is Platteklip Gorge, there are numerous trails to enjoy. Of course there are also a number of ways down- hiking, the cable car, or an abseil off the mountain!

Description:

Standing guard over Cape Town, Table Mountain defines the city. For early seafarers, the Mountain signified arrival at this port of call. For the original inhabitants of the area, the Mountain was the source of myth and intrigue. For modern day Cape Tonians, Table Mountain is the heart of daily life. At 1086 meters and home to 1400 species of flora, Table Mountain is a spectacular nature reserve surrounded by a city. With hundreds of routes to ascend, the Mountain can keep an avid hiker and climber busy for years.

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.

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:

The best Asian food in town in a very local hideaway.

Description:

Tucked away in Little Mowbray, this thai restaurant serves up a variety of delicious dishes. Great food off the beaten track.

Our Local Expert Says:

For fantastic sushi and great atmosphere this is your place. Make sure to book ahead

Description:

This little Japanese restaurant is tucked away just off Long St and is a local favorite. Minato's serves up delicious sushi and tempura created by a husband and wife team and is always in demand. Make sure to make a reservation, Minato's is always booked out.

Our Local Expert Says:

If youre looking for pastries, you cant do better than this little french bakery

Description:

This little unobtrusive bakery in Tamboerskloof offers fantastic crossaints, french pastries, fresh breads, amazing baked goods. Always fresh and always delicious, you cant go wront with anything here.