The places, most named first
From the 9 guides that rank for "best beaches in south africa"
Named by 7 of 91. Boulders BeachHome to a colony of about 3,000 African penguins; you can swim among them.Space is limited, so go early and check the tide; entry is paid because it protects the endangered penguins.
Named by 4 of 92. CliftonClifton 4th is usually sheltered from the wind, with the Twelve Apostles behind it.Clifton 4th has the gentlest waves, good for families, but the water is freezing.
Named by 4 of 93. Camps BayBacked by the Twelve Apostles with Lions Head at one end; it can get windy.Cape Town's best-known beach, with restaurants and bars along a palm-lined strip.
Named by 4 of 94. Golden Mile, DurbanA promenade and beaches about 6 km long from Blue Lagoon to uShaka Marine World.Warm Indian Ocean water for swimming and surfing year-round.
Named by 3 of 95. MuizenbergColorful Victorian bathing cabins; the beach shelves gently and the sea is generally safer here.The False Bay side is several degrees warmer than the Atlantic side.
Named by 3 of 96. Jeffreys BayA top surfing destination, home to Supertubes; June to September is best for experienced surfers.Dolphin Beach is safe for swimming with lifeguards in peak season.
Named by 3 of 97. UmhlangaA chic, less crowded alternative to Durban with a lighthouse.Promenade walk past the lighthouse and up the pier; busy in the holiday season.
Named by 2 of 98. NoordhoekWide sandy shore suited to long walks and horse riding.Sits below Chapman's Peak; popular with horse riders and families.
Named by 2 of 99. BloubergstrandSoft white sand with a Table Mountain backdrop.Best views of Table Mountain and a top kitesurfing spot.
Named by 2 of 910. Noetzie BeachGolden sand and clear water below hills and forest, near Knysna.Known for castle-like rock formations and peaceful surroundings.
Named by 2 of 911. Nature's ValleyA secluded beach near Plettenberg Bay among forest and cliffs.Linked with Salt River Mouth by a waterfall-to-ocean hike.
Named by 2 of 912. Cape VidalSecluded with abundant wildlife.Good snorkeling at the rocky point at low tide, in iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Named by 2 of 913. Coffee BayWild Coast beach with hiking trails and a tranquil feel.A rustic village where you can fish, swim and dive.
Named by 2 of 914. Christmas BayA quiet, secluded beach just north of busy Ballito.One of the quietest beaches in the area.
Named by 2 of 915. Island Beach, RobbergRugged coastline, big waves and whale watching on the Robberg Peninsula.
16. Plettenberg BayGentle waves and warm water; whales and dolphins can be seen from shore June to November.
17. LlandudnoWide sandy beach, good for surfing and sunsets, dog friendly, with tricky parking.
18. Kogel BayGolden sand and a cave reachable at low tide only; about an hour from Cape Town.
19. HermanusWhale watching from shore, June to December.
20. Cape of Good Hope Diaz BeachWild, dramatic beach with rugged cliffs.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name May to October as the best time to visit South Africa.
Questions people ask
- What is the prettiest beach in South Africa?
- Guides often name Clifton 4th and Camps Bay in Cape Town for views, and Boulders Beach for penguins.
