The Cape Town suburb of Milnerton has eight kilometres of beach, a world class golf course almost on the sea shore, restaurants and many shopping centres for the visitor to enjoy. Milnerton is centrally located between Cape Town city and the Century City shopping mecca. It has easy access to numerous attractions along South Africa’s west coast.
The suburb has stunning views of Table Mountain, Robben Island and Table Bay. The Diep River runs out into the ocean in Milnerton where an island – called Woodbridge Island – was naturally created. The island boasts a secure residential area, lighthouse and historic bridge over the palm-lined river, abundant birdlife, golf course and rowing club. Fisherman frequent the river mouth to collect sand prawns as bait for deep sea fishing.
Milnerton has all amenities, a safe swimming beach and is a short drive away from all major national highways.
Things to do
Milnerton’s safe swimming beach is manned by lifeguards and the lighthouse beach (known as Millie’s) is a great spot for beginner surfers.
The 18-hole Milnerton Golf Club has a challenging course to attempt, particularly on windy days. Visitors are welcome.
For a thrilling shopping experience, pop in to the sprawling Canal Walk Mall a few kilometres from Milnerton. A less frantic option is the Paddocks Mall within the suburb. Bargain hunters may enjoy shopping at Chinatown in the Sable Square centre.
A 12km drive will get you into Cape Town city for a visit to the vibrant V & A Waterfront, a boat trip to Robben Island and a pleasant walk through the Company’s Garden with its museums and stunning flora.
Spend a day visiting the various wine estates on the Constantia Wine Route, the Cape’s oldest grape growing region.
Where to Eat
Maestros on the Beach on Woodbridge Island has stunning sea and mountain views from the terraced deck and the vast à la carte menu offers dishes from light meals to haute cuisine. Very popular venue.
Sake Chinese restaurant at Sable Square is popular with the younger crowd during their ‘all you can eat’ sushi evenings. Get there early to avoid the rush! Regular Chinese dishes are also on offer.
Quality seafood dishes, with a vast array of options at their fish counter, and freshly presented sushi is offered at Blowfish in the nearby Dolphin Beach hotel. The chefs will prepare your fish selection to order. Fine views, bookings are essential.
Enjoy a flavoursome light meal at Lisas Restaurant in the Stodels Lifestyle Garden Centre. Peaceful venue with children’s play area.
Night Life
The Beach Tavern with its seaside location at Woodbridge Island has a lengthy drinks and cocktails menu. Visit on Thursday evenings for their bucket specials; try the Thai Bucket (visit to find out more!).
La Mizu at the Lagoon Beach Hotel is a beach bar serving drinks and cocktails with the option of ordering enjoyable snack foods. Hushed atmosphere with great views.
Enjoy an evening of drama at the Milnerton Players playhouse. This theatre showcases new talent and lively amateur stage productions.
Head into Cape Town to experience a fun night out at one of the many nightclubs and chill venues spread around the city. The Assembly is the place to be on weekends.
Where to Stay
The various luxury lodges, guest houses, hotels and apartments in the area all offer the necessary creature comforts and convenience required for an enjoyable and rewarding stay in Milnerton.
Transport
Air The nearest airport is Cape Town International, 15km from Milnerton.
Car Rental Milnerton has 2 car rental agencies; however, car rental bookings can be made online.
Bus services Milnerton is on the main bus route between Melkbosstrand along the west coast and Cape Town city centre.
Taxis 3 metered taxi companies operate out of Milnerton. If you have the Uber app, order a taxi via your mobile phone. There are many operators offering shuttle services between Milnerton, Cape Town city and the airport.
Did you know?
Milnerton once had a fine racecourse. Horseracing popularity waned and developers set about building an attractive residential precinct around the course. The track is still used for training of racehorses and the area inside the track is now a conservation hotspot.
Zonnekus (sunny coast in Dutch) was the first house built on Woodbridge Island in 1929. The house was the holiday residence of Sir David Graaff, South Africa’s first baronet, business magnate, politician and one-time Cape Town mayor. The house still occupies this prime location.
