Cape Town Waterfront & Table Mountain — Views from the Waterfront

Cape Town, arguably the most beautiful city in Africa, is an essential part of any South African holiday itinerary. I’ve just come back from a visit and I'm delighted to share my insider knowledge of the Mother City – a destination that rewards those who venture beyond the obvious.

Beyond Table Mountain: Cape Town's Iconic Hiking Experiences

Table Mountain is the backdrop everywhere in Cape Town and getting to the top deservedly tops most tourist itineraries. Savvy locals know to avoid the crowds by arriving at the cable car station before 8am. If you can’t face that early start then purchase a Fast Track ticket online and beat the queues. The cable car trip is fun, and you get an excellent all round view as it rotates on it’s way to the top.

If you have time and energy, for an even more authentic South African experience, tackle the Platteklip Gorge hiking trail at sunrise. Pack plenty of water and wear layers – the mountain creates its own microclimate, and temperatures can shift dramatically during your Cape Town adventure.

For the truly adventurous, I am told that the India Venster route offers a more challenging climb with sections requiring light scrambling. It's less crowded than Platteklip but demands a reasonable level of fitness. Never attempt these Cape Town hikes in poor weather, and always let someone know your route – a fundamental safety practice for any outdoor excursion.

On windy days when the cable car closes, Lion's Head provides an excellent alternative for Cape Town visitors. The 90-minute spiral climb rewards you with equally spectacular 360-degree views of the city, particularly stunning at full moon when locals make the ascent with headlamps and picnics for sundowners – a quintessential South African tradition.

The Cape Peninsula: Timing Is Everything

When visiting Cape Point and the penguin colony at Boulders Beach – an essential wildlife viewing experience in Cape Town – timing is crucial. Arrive at either spot before 10am to avoid tour buses. Better yet, make Boulders Beach your first stop around 8am – you'll have those cute African penguins almost entirely to yourself.

The drive along Chapman's Peak between Hout Bay and Noordhoek is one of South Africa's most scenic coastal routes, with 114 curves hugging the mountainside. Stop at the designated viewpoints to safely capture photographs of sheer cliffs plunging into the Atlantic. A small toll applies, but it's worth every penny for photographers seeking the perfect landscape shot.

When at Cape Point, skip the funicular and walk up to the lighthouse instead – it takes only 15 minutes and the extra effort is rewarded with better views along the way. It’s windy up there and the drops are steep so hang onto your sunglasses and phone!

Culinary Treasures: Cape Town's Gastronomic Delights

There are so many great restaurants in Cape Town and the scene is ever changing. Some things however are constant! Skip the waterfront restaurants charging premium prices for very average fare. Instead, head to Kloof Street for outstanding Cape Town dining in an eclectic and exciting number of restaurants, I loved Upper Union at the Cape Cadogan hotel. For consistently good seafood, the Codfather in Camps Bay has been a stalwart for years. There's no menu – simply select your fish from the fresh display and pay by weight. I also love Paranga in Camps Bay for lunch with rosé and people watching!

Wine Routes With a Difference: Cape Town's Vineyard Treasures

While Stellenbosch gets all the attention, the Constantia wine route sits right on Cape Town's doorstep. Spend an afternoon at Buitenverwachting for stellar South African wines in a tranquil setting, or visit Eagles' Nest, nestled against the mountainside in a secluded valley – perfect for travellers seeking relaxation between sightseeing excursions.

Groot Constantia, the oldest wine estate in South Africa (established in 1685), offers excellent wine pairings with chocolate that bring out remarkable flavour notes in their Pinotage and Shiraz. Their Cape Dutch architecture and museum provide cultural context to your Cape Town wine tasting experience.

For those venturing further afield, bypass the commercial wineries of Stellenbosch in favour of Franschhoek's smaller boutique estates. Take the wine tram for a hassle-free day of tasting, with hop-on-hop-off access to multiple vineyards. Book the blue or red line for less touristy stops. You can also take a wine tour by bike - not as crazy as it sounds! I managed it without falling off…

When the South-Easter Blows: Cape Town's Protected Beaches

Cape Town's infamous "Cape Doctor" – the strong south-easterly wind – can disrupt beach plans. When it's howling, head to Clifton's Fourth Beach where granite boulders provide natural windbreaks, or head to Llandudno, often protected from summer winds.

Beta Beach in Bakoven, a tiny cove near Camps Bay, remains one of Cape Town's best-kept secrets. It's sheltered from most winds, rarely crowded, and offers spectacular sunset views with the Twelve Apostles mountains as backdrop – perfect for relaxation and photography.

For complete wind protection, the Oude Kraal beach near Simonstown features crystal-clear tidal pools perfect for snorkelling, with water temperatures several degrees warmer than the Atlantic beaches. Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the rock pools teeming with marine life – children will be enthralled by the colourful starfish and sea anemones.

Natural Wonders: Cape Town's Remarkable Wildlife Encounters

Cape Town offers remarkable wildlife experiences throughout the year. Take a boat from Simon's Town to spot southern right whales (August-November), or visit the West Coast National Park during spring flower season for breathtaking natural displays.

For a guaranteed marine wildlife encounter in Cape Town, I’ve been told to book a snorkelling expedition with Cape fur seals at Duiker Island near Hout Bay. These playful creatures often approach snorkellers, creating magical underwater interactions. No experience is necessary, and operators provide all equipment and wetsuits – an accessible adventure for the whole family.

Bird enthusiasts should visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens not just for the plants, but for over 125 bird species including the striking orange-breasted sunbird and Cape sugarbird with its distinctive long tail. The elevated "Boomslang" walkway puts you at canopy level for excellent bird spotting.

Where to Stay: Cape Town's Best Accommodation Neighbourhoods

Choosing the right location in Cape Town can significantly enhance your experience, with each area offering distinct advantages depending on your preferences and budget.

V&A Waterfront provides the ultimate convenience for first-time Cape Town visitors. Situated in a working harbour with Table Mountain as backdrop, this area offers upscale hotels like The Silo and Cape Grace. While accommodation commands premium prices, you'll enjoy walkable access to shops, restaurants, and the ferry to Robben Island. The precinct feels extraordinarily safe, with 24-hour security making it ideal for families and travellers who prefer not to drive.

Kloof Street and its surroundings offer some of Cape Town's most characterful accommodation options, perfectly positioned for those who prioritise walkable access to the city's culinary and cultural attractions. The area features boutique hotels like my new favourite the elegant Cape Cadogan, with its Georgian architecture and luxurious touches. The neighbourhood's central location—midway between Table Mountain and the city centre—makes it ideal for first-time visitors, while its proximity to trendy bars, independent boutiques, and celebrated restaurants means entertainment is always close at hand. Just be mindful that the vibrant nightlife can bring evening noise to certain streets.

Camps Bay and Clifton represent Cape Town's glamour strip, with pristine beaches and spectacular sunset views. Boutique hotels like The Marly command breathtaking Atlantic panoramas. The palm-lined Camps Bay promenade offers beachfront dining and a see-and-be-seen atmosphere. Stay here for beach access and natural beauty, but expect to pay a premium, especially during peak season (December-February).

Sea Point offers the perfect middle ground – Atlantic Seaboard location without Camps Bay prices. This vibrant, walkable suburb features a magnificent oceanfront promenade perfect for morning jogs and sunset strolls. Accommodation ranges from refurbished art deco apartment buildings to modern boutique hotels like Latitude and The Winchester. The neighbourhood's Main Road offers authentic local restaurants, delis, and shops where Cape Town residents far outnumber tourists – ideal for travellers seeking authentic experiences.

Whichever Cape Town area you choose, consider the city's topography when booking – those spectacular mountain and sea views often come with steep hills to climb, so check access details if mobility is a concern.

Local Transport Tips: Navigating Cape Town Efficiently

My top tips – use the Uber app for affordable transport around Cape Town, or for a fun day out jump on one of the City’s sightseeing buses. The Hop-on, hop-off buses cover 3 different loops stopping at all Cape Town’s major attractions, and are ideal for a family as an adult ticket is around £16 for a 2 day pass including a harbour boat tour. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen - you’ll want a seat on the top deck!

Cape Town's charm lies in its contrasts: sophisticated urban experiences against a backdrop of raw natural beauty. It’s worth taking time to explore it fully and you’ll be rewarded with some fantastic memories!

An Insider's Guide to Cape Town: Hidden Gems of South Africa's Mother City