Top 5 Surfing Spots in Cape Town


South Africa’s coastline is defined by a wealth of points and bays; in technical terms, these logarithmic spiral beaches support some of the most challenging and entertaining waves. Surfing is a main sport in the capital city of Cape Town, and most enthusiasts would spend months hunting for the perfect ride. In general, surf is qualitative if the swell is prominent and imposing. The Cape Peninsula is an ideal spot for this sport, particularly because of the windy conditions. Here are 5 of the best surfing spots in Cape Town.


1. Long Beach

Popular among experienced surfers, Long Beach looks like an endless stretch of sand with really nice waves. Incredibly dynamic and usually packed with walkers and joggers too, this place has waves that break both sides – to the right and to the left. This is great because all surfers can enjoy the activity (left-led dominant and right-leg dominant). Do you have what it takes to catch that killer wave you’ve been craving for weeks? From Cape Town, Long Beach is 40 minutes away by car. On a south-west wind, a wave brakes offshore; this means it’s more appropriate for advanced surfers.

2. Scarborough Beach

This place is 45 minutes away from Cape Town by car. It is extremely popular for body boarders too, not just for surfers. What we love about this beach is that it offers spectacular scenery. It’s not just a pretty coastline, but an oasis of tranquility. There’s not lot traffic here, so you can enjoy your surfing in peace. Be careful though as the waves are pretty big. In the summer it might get a little crowded in Scarborough Beach, and that’s because tourists come here for additional sports, like kite surfing for example. Moms with kids will just stick to flying kites, while dad runs offshore in pursue of that unique wave.


3. Big Bay 

Big Bay is a stunning beach location between Bloubergstrand and Melkbos. Surfers of all levels can check it out. As for the location, the coast is 30 minutes away from the heart of Cape Town. Most suitable surfing conditions occur where the wind blows from south-east. Featuring friendly and welcoming local people, this place comes with a nice coffee shop near the park. Some other related activities tourists can check out while here are windsurfing and kite surfing.

4. Glen Beach

As opposite to other beach locations close to Cape Town, Glen Beach is a bit different. Locals value this place enormously, so if you’re not experienced they might not allow you access. When the weather conditions are perfect for surfing, the beach may get a bit crowded; nevertheless, because it is aimed at professionals, it goes without saying that the waves are big and ferocious. Can you handle the pressure? What makes Glen Beach so enticing is the scenery. Surfers will have the chance to admire the most spectacular view of the Twelve Apostles. Positioned only 5 minutes from the heart of Cape Town, the coast is really close to Camps Bay and Clifton Beach.

5. Llandudno

Llandudno is arguably Cape Town’s most picturesque surfing spots. The snow-white sand, crystal-clear blue waters, and majestic boulders, make this place seem visually charming and entertaining. It is located 15 minutes away from Cape Town by car, and it is considered a surfer’s finest riding spot. The waves here are magnificent, and some tourists come here just to admire the surfers do their thing. If you’re a beginner, then Llandudno is not for you. The waves are big, nasty and hollow, so you need courage to get out alive.


Whether you’re a newbie surfer or you’ve been practicing the sport for years, in Cape Town there are spots for every level. Explore the city’s coastline, have a closer look at the waves, and start pursuing the biggest and the nastiest. Be ready to live an unforgettable experience. There are other surfing areas spread around the world, but very few can exceed the level of excitement offered by Cape Town’s beaches. We’re half way through 2015, so you still have time to cross check surfing from your New Year’s resolution list. Which of the 5 surfing spots we just mentioned appeals to you the most?

By Peter Smith and CapePortfolios.com!

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