Secret beaches for when the Cape Town coast is crowded

Posted on 23 December 2025 By Lee-Ann Steyn

It’s no secret that our city boasts some of the most inviting beaches in the world, but the locations might be hidden from view.

Picture: Holiday Apartments

Beach visits are almost essential at the moment to cool off from the January heat, so here are five secret beaches to check out when the main ones are too packed:

1. Beta Beach

Picture: Cape Town with Kids

Nestled in Bakoven, Beta Beach is a tiny nook that can accommodate just a small number of people, so get there early.

The secluded beach has spectacular views of Lion’s Head and the bay, and its sheltering boulders prevent wind from flowing through the area, meaning visitors can sunbathe without sand whipping into their faces.

2. Cosy Bay

Picture: Foursquare

Sitting opposite the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa, this little beach is just beyond Camps Bay beach, where the iconic boulders are. This is a spectacular place to watch the sea crash against the rocks while also having shallow water easy to swim in.

3. Diaz Beach

Picture: World Beach Guide

Diaz Beach is a 20-minute walk down the hill on Cape Point and is the perfect spot for a day of sunbathing bliss. Pull out a deckchair or lay your towel out under an umbrella and spend the day unwinding on the shore.

Swimming is not recommended at this beach due to the strong currents that can pull swimmers far out into the ocean, and visitors are advised not to go any further than ankle-deep into the water.

4. Windmill Beach

Picture: Holiday Apartments

Windmill Beach is an ideal way to spend time in the sun in Simon’s Town. The water is shallow and mostly quite still, making it a safe spot for small children to splash around in with their accompanying adults.

If you are not in the mood for a swim, Windmill Beach is also ideal for picnicking, snorkelling, and kayaking. It is also a popular diving spot, as a large number of fish can be spotted in the area.

5. Scarborough Beach

Picture: Trip Advisor

Although this beach is well-known, few Capetonians wander to this part of Cape Town, often choosing a sunbathing spot closer to the city centre, which leaves more space for visitors.

Scarborough’s pristine beaches with exquisite turquoise waters make up for the distance from the city and as a bonus, the beach is dog-friendly. Rock pools are situated near the beach and the children will enjoy exploring them.

Article shared by Cape Town Etc

Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.

TikTok | Instagram Facebook Twitter

ALSO READ: The dreamiest African infinity pools to escape to this summer




yoast-primary - 1015475
tcat - Beaches
tcat_slug - beaches
tcat2 - Beaches
tcat2_slug - beaches
tcat_final -