Beach · Cidade do Cabo, Cabo Ocidental
Camps Bay Beach
White-sand beach on the Atlantic side, beneath the cliffs of the Twelve Apostles, with a promenade of restaurants and cold water.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Camps Bay Beach
Camps Bay lies on the Atlantic side of Table Mountain, about a 10-minute drive from the centre. The beach, with fine white sand, is framed by the Twelve Apostles, the sequence of peaks that continues the mountain to the south, and by Lion's Head to the north.
The water is fed by the cold Benguela current and is chilly year-round, even in summer. Many people go more for sunbathing, strolling and watching the sunset than for swimming. The rock pool at the southern corner of the beach has calmer water.
Victoria Road, behind the sand, has a row of restaurants and bars with sea views, and the lawn between the road and the beach is lined with palm trees. To the north, the four small beaches of Clifton, set between granite rocks, are more sheltered from the wind.
In summer the southeast wind can blow strongly and raise sand in the afternoon; Clifton is usually more sheltered on those days.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 2 hours to half a day.
Best time
Late afternoon, to watch the sunset over the Atlantic. Summer, from December to February, is beach season; on strong southeast wind days, prefer Clifton.
How to get there
It is about 7 km from the centre via Kloof Nek Road. The MyCiTi bus links the centre and the Waterfront to Camps Bay, and there are also ride-hailing services.
Tip
Bring a jacket for sunset, as it cools quickly. Respect the lifeguards' flags: the sea has currents.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Camps Bay Beach
Is the water at Camps Bay cold?
Yes, very cold year‑round because of the Benguela Current.
How to get to Camps Bay from the centre?
By MyCiTi bus, ride‑hailing app or car, about 15 minutes via Kloof Nek Road.
What is the difference between Camps Bay and Clifton?
Camps Bay is a wide beach with a promenade of restaurants; Clifton consists of four smaller beaches between rocks, more sheltered from the wind.
