The Atlantic Seaboard represents quintessential Cape Town for many visitors who choose a holiday rental here.
Glamorous Clifton with bungalows and villas right on the beach, trendy Camps Bay and vibrant Sea Point are all within easy distance of the CBD giving the best of both worlds: beach relaxation and access to a huge choice of excellent restaurants, hip cafes, Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront.
Holiday rentals range from luxurious villas with private swimming pools commanding the highest daily rates in Cape Town and appealing to international celebrities and jet-setters, to smaller holiday apartments. But whatever your budget, the laid-back, golden Cape Town vibe is free to all, with sundowners on beautiful sandy beaches, with Table Mountain behind you and the best sunset views to drink in.
It’s a perfect base for scenic drives along the Atlantic coast below to Hout Bay, and then along Chapman’s Peak Drive to Noordhoek and Cape Point. It’s also great for heading up the Table Mountain Cableway, taking a boat trip out to Robben Island or a sunset catamaran cruise. If you prefer to car-free holiday, the MyCiTi bus links the length of the Atlantic Seaboard to the city, and Uber gets you home after an evening of enjoying world-class food and wine in town.
There’s plenty to tempt you to get active, too, from sociable runs along the Sea Point promenade to paragliding off Lion’s Head, hiking the trails on Table Mountain, surfing (Llandudno and Glen Beach are favourite spots for experienced surfers), or learning to stand up paddleboard on the canals at the V&A Waterfront.
Above all, it’s the stunning setting, sheltered from Cape Town’s notorious summer southeaster, the dramatic mountain backdrop and ever-changing ocean views, as well as the top tier, luxury accommodation that make the Atlantic Seaboard such a favourite destination for international visitors.
I've stayed in many areas in and around Cape Town, but once I'd experienced the energy of the mountain and the sea simultaneously, I was hooked on the Atlantic Seaboard. I absolutely adore Cape Town sunsets. The fantastic clouds amplify the beauty of Mother Nature's nightly ethereal masterpieces.
-Sarah Ferguson, regular visitor
Best in food:
- La Mouette: for affordable fine dining
- Mondiall: for lunch with great views
- The Grand Africa Cafe and Beach: for cocktails, pizza and seafood
- La Belle: for casual cafe food and breakfasts
- Del Mar: for authentic Mexican food
- Retreat Kitchen: for braais twice a week
Things to do:
- Walk, run or cycle on the Sea Point promenade.
- Explore the V&A Waterfront for shopping, food and entertainment.
- Relax and play on the beaches at Clifton and Camps Bay.
- Hike the Pipe Track above Camps Bay.
- Play golf at the Metropolitan Golf Club.
Nature nearby:
- Green Point Urban Park
- Table Mountain National Park
- Oudekraal Beach
- Two Oceans Aquarium
- World of Birds
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
