The Atlantic Seaboard is a beautiful stretch of land which reaches from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront all the way to Hout Bay, along the northern slopes of Table Mountain. It is well known for both its spectactular ocean views and luxurious properties. If you are looking for a remarkable Cape sunset, this is without a doubt the place to be. The picturesque drive along the Atlantic Seaboard will take you through suburbs such as Mouille Point, Green Point, Sea Point, Clifton, Camps Bay, Bakoven, Llandudno and Hout Bay.
Things to do
The Atlantic Seaboard is home to some of the world’s most magnificent beaches, from the rocky shores of Llandudno to the sandy expanse of Camps Bay. Clifton also offers four secluded and trendy beach spots.
If you want to make the most of the spectacular views there are various hikes which start in Camps Bay and transcend up Table Mountain. Most hikes begin at the Pipe Track, but beware, these trails are not for the faint hearted and one must be well prepared before venturing out.
While on the Atlantic Seaboard one can easily take advantage of all the activities of the V&A Waterfront. From luxurious high end shopping, to historical tours of Robben Island. One can also catch a helicopter ride to get an unsurpassed birds eye view of the beauty of the coastline.
Breathtaking 180 degree views is what you’ll find on the Chapman’s Peak Drive. This drive winds it’s way along the rocky coastline from Noordehoek to Hout Bay, with 114 curves across 9km. While being one of the most awe inspiring marine drives in the world, it’s shock factor is due to the many sheer drops to the ocean below. There are plenty of spots along this drive to stop and take a picture or have a sunset picnic.
Towards the end of the seaboard you will come across the Bay Harbour Market, situated in an authentic old fish factory in Hout Bay harbour. This market houses an array of African curiosities, arts, crafts and fashion, plus a host of tempting foods. Take a seat, have a drink and enjoy some fantastic local music while you're at it.
Where to eat
The Atlantic Seaboard offers an array of trendy and vibrant restaurants with spectacular views.
Right in the heart of Camps Bay, you’ll find Paranga, the perfect spot for a lazy lunch with uninterrupted beach views. Everything from seafood to sumptuous fillet steaks.
The Bungalow restaurant blends seamlessly into Clifton beach front which makes it the perfect spot for a sit down meal, or even a relaxing drink after a hard day at the beach. Outstanding food and wine menu in a super chic setting.
For some authentic Mexican why not give El Burro, situated in Greenpoint, a try. Colourful, vibrant and considered one of the best Mexican restaurants in Cape Town.
La Perla is somewhat a landmark in Sea Point, known to have been frequented by many world famous celebrities. La Perla produces an upmarket Italian menu with a focus on seafood.
Dizzy's in Camps Bay is the perfect spot for a relaxing pizza evening after a stroll on Camps Bay beach. An array of pizza and pasta options, coupled with a buzzing atmosphere.
Cafe Caprice is a favoured Camps Bay hangout where locals come to enjoy a relaxing afternoon beside the beach. Light meals, burgers and cocktails complement the laid back atmosphere.
Where to stay
The Atlantic Seaboard is home to many luxury hotels such as The Twelve Apostles and The Bay Hotel. These are the perfect spots for poolside relaxation or rejuvenating spa treatments.
The area boasts many guesthouses, self catering apartments or cottages, which are a short walk or drive away from local beaches and restaurants. One of the benefits of accommodation along the Atlantic Seaboard is its central location close to many interesting and scenic activities.
Transport
Air: The suburbs that make up the Atlantic Seaboard are situated approximately between 31 - 22kms away from Cape Town International Airport.
Car Rental: The most beneficial way to travel along the Atlantic Seaboard is by car. This gives you easy access to Chapmans Peak Drive and Victoria Road which wind their way along the coastline. Car rentals can be booked online or organised at Cape Town International Airport
Taxis/Cabs: Taxi services are ideal for short trips around the area, longer trips tend to get quite pricey very quickly.
Did you know?
The Atlantic Seaboard is made up of suburbs that are situated along the Atlantic coast. These include Sea Point, Green point, Granger Bay, Bantry Bay, Camps Bay,Clifton, Hout Bay, and Llandudno.
The first portion of Chapman’s Peak was opened in 1919.
The recent upgrading and reconstruction of Chapmans Peak was one of the most innovative road engineering projects in South Africa
The Twelve Apostles mountain range was once covered in forests with lion, leopard and antelope.
Clifton 4th Beach was rated one of the top ten beaches by the Discovery Travel Channel.
In 1862, Sea Point opened it a tramline and became Cape Town’s first commuter suburb.
