During the summer holidays it is always a treat to escape the heat with a beach vacation. One of the most popular destinations for this type of vacation is Cape Town. However, the question does arise of which beach is the best or richest in the mother city.
One of the most popular answers to this question is the Muizenberg beaches. That is why we decided to write this article to take a look at these popular beaches and what they have to offer. We will look at where they are located, what they are best known for, and some of the attractions surrounding them. All to help you plan the perfect seaside vacation for the next summer holidays.
Where is Muizenberg beach?
Muizenberg beach is next to the coastal town of Muizenberg which is part of the greater Cape Town area. It is situated where the shoreline of the Cape Peninsula curves around to the east and becomes the False Bay coast. Meaning the Muizenberg beaches are perfectly situated in False Bay, which has a smooth shallow bottom that slowly deepens as you go further in. Making it the ideal beach to enjoy wading through the waves.
What is Muizenberg beach known for?
The Muizenberg beaches are most famous for their surfer’s corner. It is known as one of the most welcoming surf spots in South Africa, especially for new surfers. The wave breaks are ideal for beginners and the more experienced surfers tend to keep to the back line of waves to give beginners their space. All of this has led to a thriving surfer community that has given these beaches a casual relaxing vibe.
Muizenberg beaches activities
Going to the beach is an activity in its own right, as you can swim, tan, build sandcastles or play a few ball games. Muizenberg beaches offer more than just your standard beach activities. So we will take a look at some of the activities on these beaches and in their surrounding areas.
Surfing
The Muizenberg beaches are most famous for their surfing, which means one of the best activities available is surfing lessons. These are provided by numerous businesses along the beach offering board and wet suit rentals, and lessons if you are a beginner. This is an enjoyable way to spend the day and learn a new skill, that comes with bragging rights once you return home. Lessons are available for all ages and skill levels.
Colourful beach huts
Another iconic aspect of the Muizenberg beaches are the colourful beach huts. These colourful huts are lined up along the beach and were historically used as changing rooms for beachgoers. Today they are a beloved part of the beachfront that locals and tourists alike enjoy. Additionally, they have even earned the title of one of the most ‘instagrammable’ spots in Cape Town. So be sure to snap a few pictures with these delightful structures to add to your holiday album.
Variety of water sports
Aside from the surfing that the beach is famous for there are also a variety of other watersports available. There is the thrilling sport of kite surfing which lets you see the ocean from high above the waves. Alternatively, there is also stand-up paddle boarding for a more relaxed time on the waves. There are lessons for both of these water sports available on the Muizenberg beaches, ensuring there is something for everyone on these beautiful shores.
Zandvlei Estuary
If you want to experience the natural beauty of the area then there is always the Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve. This wetland nature reserve is teeming with bird life with 166 species on its official list. There is also some wonderful Cape Wetlands vegetation offering a great way to get back to nature.
Explore the local history
If you need to pet out of the Muizenberg beaches sun you can always go explore the history of the area. There are several museums located close to the beach including the Het Posthuys and Rhodes Cottage Museum. The Posthuys is the oldest standing building on the False Bay coastline and served as a lookout post. The Rhodes Cottage Museum was the private retreat of Cecil John Rhodes. These museums offer a fascinating insight into the colonial history of South Africa.
Muizenberg Flea Market
If you need energy, or get hungry while enjoying the Muizenberg beaches be sure to head over to the Muizenberg flea market. With over 300 stalls you are sure to find refreshments and some of the local cuisine to satisfy your hunger. Additionally, you might just find the perfect souvenir to remember your holiday by. The flea market is open every Sunday from 08:30-17:00, offering a great spot for some bargain retail therapy.
Conclusion
With so much to offer it is easy to see why the Muizenberg beaches are widely considered the richest beaches in Cape Town. It is also a good thing that as it is a public beach it is open 24/7, however, it is not advisable to use them at night. Therefore if you are looking for the perfect beach for a memorable summer holiday. Look no further than the wonderful beaches at Muizenberg