South African Beaches

Adventure Travel

2011-11-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

It certainly would not be an exaggeration if it is said that it is difficult to find anyone who is not interested in traveling! There are many people who also find great pleasure in 'adventure travel' and take it as lightly as an evening walk. As the name itself indicates, adventure travel is a trip that provides an unusual and exciting experience to the traveler seeking adventures. There are a great many kind of experiences that fall under the category of adventure travel - cultural journeys, expeditions, wildlife adventures, and active adventures to name a few.
One who wishes to go on an adventure travel may certainly have a very clear picture of what kind of adventure he plans to take on. You can plan it on your own but it can take a lot of time and a lot more confusing than you can imagine. To make things easier and to make the travel comfortable, the best option would be to approach a good travel agent. The thrill and excitement that you would get on your trip will be numerous and the trip all the more enjoyable.

Honeymoon Packages

2011-11-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

Here are a few honeymoon tips to help you when looking at all inclusive honeymoon packages, if you wish to spend your time on honeymoon relaxingly and stress free, think about choosing one of the various all inclusive honeymoon packages. Your travel agent will show you the all packages that are the most popular with honeymoon couples which are the tourist areas of Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean, which includes places like Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia and of course, the Bahamas. They all have lots to offer in any one of these locations, which keeps these beautiful places so popular.
Your Wedding is a thrilling time but it can also be one filled with exasperation. All inclusive honeymoon packages may help to relieve some of the anxiousness when planning your wedding. I think the greatest thing about all inclusive honeymoon packages is the fact that you do not have to search for affordable flights, hotels, or car hire, as all this is included in the package.

Beach SA

2011-11-02T23:18:00.000-07:00

Nineteen of South Africa's beaches have been awarded a coveted Blue Flag from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), six of those beaches are in Cape Town, four in Port Elizabeth and four on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Blue Flag status means that a beach has achieved and maintained international standards regarding safety, cleanliness and amenities. It also demonstrates commitment to environmental conservation/preservation.
Application for Blue Flag status is purely voluntary, and in South Africa is managed by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism and relevant coastal authorities. INineteen of South Africa's beaches have been awarded a coveted Blue Flag from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), six of those beaches are in Cape Town, four in Port Elizabeth and four on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Blue Flag status means that a beach has achieved and maintained international standards regarding safety, cleanliness and amenities. It also demonstrates commitment to environmental conservation/preservation.

Hotel Deals

2011-11-02T23:15:00.000-07:00

Online reservations are the fast & easy way. And it's also quite safe. There is no reason to be anymore concerned about using your credit card online as you would be concerned about using your credit card over the phone. In fact if you think about it, it's safer to do it online because the phone operator could always record your information!

South African Beach Resorts

2011-11-02T23:12:00.000-07:00

There is no continent on the planet that has the diversity of people, places and things that Africa has to offer. All the major European countries took a piece of the continent and influences from the colonial overseers is apparent and in some instances prevailing. The British, Germans and Portuguese made their marks in east Africa; on the west coast were the Spanish and the French and the jewel that makes up the southern regions were decidedly and remain the realm of the Dutch.
The country of Africa is a literal time machine and those on holiday to this diverse land can be dining in one of the five star restaurants in Cape Town in the evening, and the following day can behold a landscape unchanged for a millennium. The primal part of South Africa is complete with the greatest concentration of wildlife on earth and the tourists may participate in tribal ceremonies that are little changed from the days of the first explorers. The winds of change took Africa out of the Dark Continent and transformed it into a major holiday destination with cheap flights to Africa from every major city in Europe.

South African Sports

2011-11-02T23:08:00.000-07:00

SA sent athletes to the 1960 Rome Olympics, but this appearance was its last until 1992. Why? Because of the nation's policy of apartheid, from the 1960s to 1991, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), under the pressure from Africa, Guyana, and India, ousted the white-ruled South Africa from the Olympic Movement. In that time, SA was condemned by the United Nations and other major international organizations, including the International Olympic Committee. As a result, the South African athletes could not compete in the Games and a host of World Championships, from soccer, athletics, swimming and basketball to archery, fencing and

South African Hotels

2011-11-02T08:06:00.000-07:00

South Africa, the name summons fabulous images of jungles, beaches, and mountains. No wonder, the destination is such a popular holiday getaway and plays host to countless travellers. With tourism being such a big part of the economy, visitors have a world of South Africa hotels to choose from while planning holidays in the countries. Be it jungle lodges, cheap hotels, or five star properties, one gets spoilt for choice while looking for accommodation. Take a look at three popular hotels in the country.

Beach Vacations

2011-11-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

Jamaica villas in the Caribbean are quite well known these days for the exotic and luxurious beach vacations they offer. But it wasn't like this around 60 years ago, when most people used to stay at hotels. But once the villa concept caught on in the 1950s, it quickly turned into a popular trend and now it is an organized industry and a big part of the local economy.
There are Jamaica villas available for travelers of all stripes, from cheap ones for budget tour groups to massive palatial ones for those in need of a luxurious vacation. Some of these palace-like villas are often used by wealthy vacationers for extended stays or winter getaways. Such a villa may have everything from its own private beach to a helipad.

Top Beaches In The World

2011-11-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

One of the most populated, popular best beaches in Maui, Hawaii, Ka'napali is a paradise on earth. It is located in West Maui, two miles north of the historic whaling town of Lahaina and is surrounded by numerous elegant hotels and condominiums. The beach is three miles long and is full of fun-filled activities where you can snorkel, windsurf, jet-ski, parasail and even kayak. It is divided into two separate long stretches by a massive 300 foot cinder cone Pu'u Keka' known as the Black Rock. The rock divides the sand into two and swimmers find themselves bathing in deep water. The rugged lava coastline around the Rock is also an outstanding snorkeling spot, one of the best on the island. Swimming in the crystal clear waters is safe throughout the year but best outside the season of high winter surfs.

African Penguins

2011-11-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

Most people do not put the words 'South Africa' and 'penguins' in the same sentence, so you may be surprised to know that South Africa is home to the African penguin. If you want to spend time with these delightful creatures, you can volunteer with the South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). It has a reputation of being one of the world's foremost rehabilitation centres for marine birds. African penguins comprise part of their mandate. In this atmosphere, working with animals means helping to save this wingless and endangered species of bird.

Best Beaches In The World

2011-08-16T02:59:00.000-07:00

If you’re ready to get away and take the family to a beach that’s relaxing and entertaining for adults, but that still keeps the trip fun and exciting for the kids, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 beaches in the world for families. So, let’s start the countdown from number five and work our way to the very best beach.

5. Trunk Bay, St. John in the Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, and probably the least known beach in our list. But, it is one of the best kept secrets of the Virgin Islands. With the offshore coral reefs, Trunk Bay beach is considered the best on the island of St. John.

Visitors can lounge in the sun, or explore the coral reefs in the pristine waters off the coast of St. John. You can even try your hand at underwater photography with the snorkeling equipment rentals available. For more adventure you can take the family hiking into the park to see old sugar plantations and the history of St. John.

4. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a popular hotspot and home to some of the best beaches in the world. The best time of the year to visit this Mexican paradise is around November or December. You’ll avoid the spring breakers and the tropical storm season that usually hits in September or October. It’s also the best time to get a deal, and when traveling as a family, good rates are important.

Since you’ll want to find accommodations close to or on the beach, you’ll find your best bets on the famous Hotel Zone, which is a 14 mile peninsula into the Caribbean Sea. Our pick for the best hotel in Cancun is the Barcelo Costa situated on the Playa Linda Beach in Cancun. This resort is close to the golf course, shopping and of course, the beach.

3. St. Tropez, France
Most people think of Hollywood stars and clothing optional beaches when they hear St. Tropez. However, there are several family friendly beaches in St. Tropez that feature beach playgrounds, and places to find snacks for the kids. Stay away in the summer months as there are hordes of people on the beaches and in the shops. June and September are the best months to take the family to the beach so you can still enjoy the warm climate, but avoid the masses.

The Amarante Golf Plaza Hotel sits on the Bay of St. Tropez and features luxury amenities like a swimming pool, fitness room, golf and tennis, and serves gourmet food in their on-site restaurant.

2. Paradise Island, Bahamas
Paradise Island is small at only 5 square miles, but it is heaven for beach goers. Besides the sandy beaches there are lots of fun things to do with the family including shopping along the quaint streets, eating local cuisine, or venturing through the 100-foot underwater tunnel to see sharks, barracudas, and stingrays.

The Atlantis is the premier location to stay in Paradise Island, with water activities for the kids and a full 18-hole golf course. On their Cabbage Beach you can parasail, jetski, and snorkel.

1. Surfers Paradise Beach, Australia
Surfers Paradise Beach is our top pick because of the selection of activities for people young and old. The beaches are gorgeous, the water clear and inviting, and a ton of fun attractions at the Gold Coast. There are plenty of theme parks like Sea World and Movie World. Activities run the range from shopping, laying on the beach, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, and even bungee jumping. At night they have hopping clubs and a casino.

Best Beaches

2011-08-16T02:50:00.000-07:00

Voted one of the most photogenic beaches in the Caribbean, and for good reason. Trunk Bay features powdery sand and vibrant aquamarine waters. The underwater self-guided tour is also popular among amateur snorkelers.

9. Paradise Beach - Mykonos

Paradise Beach is the most popular beach on the Greek island of Mykonos. The beach is popular with a younger crowd, and clothing is sometimes optional.

8. Tulum Beach - Mexico

Tulum, just 2 hours south of Cancun, is popular for its powder sand beaches and limestone rocks. There's plenty of room to roam, the beaches are quite big.

7. Grace Bay - Caribbean

One of the best beaches in the Caribbean, the fine white sand of Grace Bay is to die for. Natural reefs protect the bay, which makes it ideal for snorkeling.

6. Plage Malendure - Guadeloupe

Nestled among the rainforests at the base of a volcano in Guadeloupe lies Plage Malendure. Soft black sand can be found on the beaches here, thanks to the volcano. The water is clear and the temperature is perfect.

5. Clifton Beach on Cape Town, South Africa

The beaches of Clifton are interesting because each of the 4 beaches are divided by large granite boulders. Each beach has its own personality, with the 4th beach being the most active.

4. Shelly (Manly) - Sydney

Manly is unique because it is surrounded by the ocean on 3 sides. The gorgeous peninsula features exquisite beaches with amazing views. Manly is a luxury beach resort, so it naturally attracts many travelers from all over Sydney and beyond.

3. South Beach - Florida

South Beach is considered Florida's best party destination. With warm beaches as well as an active nightlife, you'll find South Beach a great beach to visit.

2. St. Tropez - France

St. Tropez is very active and popular tourist destination, you'll even find plenty of celebrities frolicking here. The beaches of St. Tropez are each unique in their own right. Some are family oriented, others are clothing optional.

1. Lanikai Beach - Hawaii

Lanikai Beach translated in Hawaiian means ""heavenly sea"" and it really does live up to its name. Lanikai Beach is considered a great secret of Hawaii, and for good reason. The fine sands are perfect for lounging, and the clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.

South African People

2011-08-16T02:45:00.000-07:00

south african beach,best south african beaches,beaches in africa,south african culture,south african,african beaches,south african airlines,
south african holiday,south african vacations,south african holidays,south african tourism,pictures of south african beaches,
south african penguins,south african embassy,south african countries,south african travel,south african tours,south african people,
best beaches,best beaches in the world,african penguins,top beaches in the world,beach vacations,south african hotels,south african sports,
south african beach resorts,hotel deals,beach sa,honeymoon packages,adventure travel,south african resorts,vacation package.

South AfricanTours

2011-08-16T02:37:00.000-07:00

South African Travel

2011-08-16T02:30:00.000-07:00

Gauteng, South Africa's smallest province, is also its industrial, financial and commercial hub and a gateway to southern Africa. It was here where the cradle of humankind is found, where gold was discovered, apartheid fell, the new constitution was written and Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as President. A hefty history for any place, but in Gauteng anything is possible. A sense of excitement prevails in this technologically advanced, culturally diverse, vibrantly artistic destination which beckons the visitor with a multitude of opportunities to discover and experience its precious life spirit.

Situated at an average altitude of 1500m above sea level, Gauteng falls in a summer rainfall area with afternoon thunderstorms an occurrence. Daily temperatures range from an average midsummer maximum of 26 degrees Celsius to an average winter maximum of 16 degrees Celsius.

Excellent shopping facilities ranging from exclusive, luxury or trendy items at modern malls to art and craft bargains at 'flea markets' and roadside stalls. Visit Sandton City, Rosebank (Mall, The Zone, galleries, Rooftop Market on Sundays), Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Oriental Plaza, Market Square Precint (on weekend), Jewel City (for diamonds directly from the cutters) and Michael Mount Organic Market. Special purchases include designer wear and fashion items; jewellery (especially gold and diamonds); decor items and traditional African masks, craft items e.g. bead work and sculpture.

South African Countries

2011-08-16T02:24:00.000-07:00

There is growing consensus that modern biotechnology holds the key to sustainable development. This is, especially, in the light of the fact that the world's population is fast growing without corresponding land expansion. Modern biotechnology is considered cost effective and therefore very applicable to poor resource farming. Scientific evidence exist that associate genetically modified crops with high yields. This explains why Sub-Saharan Africa, long ravaged by drought and famine is being encouraged to embrace modern biotechnology.

Modern biotechnology is already dominant in the US, Canada, Spain, Mexico, China, Argentina, and Brazil. These countries not only produce enough for their domestic consumption but also for export. Perhaps, this is the most significant aspect of GM cultivation. For without ready market surplus yields would go to waste. I raise this issue because the current trade imbalance threatens to imperil North-South technology transfer. This is especially critical in Africa, which for many years has been struggling to penetrate oversees markets with little success.

Let me illustrate this point. Currently, the US and Europe are involved in a bitter trade war with four West African countries - Burkina Faso, Benin, Chad and Mali, over subsidies they offer their cotton farmers. The four West African countries, popularly known as C4 attribute low cotton prices, which are seriously strangling their farmers, on these subsidies. Subsidies are meant to ensure that farmers always get value for their farm investments. They don't have to worry about price fluctuations for they are guaranteed of compensation by their governments.

South African Embassy

2011-08-16T01:45:00.000-07:00

South African Penguins

2011-08-16T01:42:00.000-07:00

Scientifically named as Spheniscus demersusb, the African penguin is one of the native species of the fauna of the south-western coast of the African continent. 'Black-footed penguin' is another name for it. And in case you did not know, this flightless bird is also known as the 'Jackass penguin'. Why? Well, it brays in the same way as the donkey does. An average adult can grow up to 68 - 70 cm, that is 26.7 - 27.5 inches. And, 4 and 12 pounds is the measure between which the bird can weigh. One can easily identify this creature, given its black stripe and black spots on the chest or the belly. What is interesting about these spots is that their pattern is unique for each penguin, like our fingerprints are. So no African penguin can get away with a crime! That was a bad joke, wasn't it? Coming back to another one of the interesting African penguin facts, it is about the creature's eyes. Well, not exactly about its eyes, but some pink glands above them. The function of these glands is to cool down the bird when it gets hotter. What happens is, on a hot day, the blood rushes to this gland to help the bird cool down by the surrounding air. That is why, the hotter the day is, the more pink these parts become. Some more African penguin facts have been compiled in the following.

Pictures Of South African Beaches

2011-08-16T01:35:00.000-07:00

South African Tourism

2011-08-16T01:31:00.000-07:00

South African Holidays

2011-08-16T01:27:00.000-07:00

outh african beach,best south african beaches,beaches in africa,south african culture,south african,african beaches,south african airlines,
south african holiday,south african vacations,south african holidays,south african tourism,pictures of south african beaches,
south african penguins,south african embassy,south african countries,south african travel,south african tours,south african people,
best beaches,best beaches in the world,african penguins,top beaches in the world,beach vacations,south african hotels,south african sports,
south african beach resorts,hotel deals,beach sa,honeymoon packages,adventure travel,south african resorts,vacation package.

South African Vacations

2011-08-16T00:57:00.000-07:00

The words Cheap Africa Vacations don't really make sense, so why did you search under these three words?

If you think about it logically, the word 'cheap' has come to mean poor quality, when really what you want is quality that is inexpensive!!

The question now is, do you know anything that is cheap, but is good quality, so don't think you can get Cheap Africa vacations that are also high quality!!

The next point is Africa - you need to be more specific - after all Africa is a very large continent, with huge differences in scenery, climate, and cultures, so where in Africa do you rally want to take a cheap vacation?

Consider this - Africa takes in Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, all different in themselves, but vastly different to Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya, which are themselves different to South Africa.

We must add to this list, the offshore islands of Zanzibar, and perhaps The Seychelles, and Mauritius, although it would be easy to argue they belong to The Indian Ocean, and wouldn't qualify as somewhere to go for a Cheap Africa Vacation.

Finally from the three words Cheap Africa Vacations, we must take the word 'Vacation'.

What does a vacation mean to you, because the success or failure of your hard earned break depends entirely on your family unit all being happy with the same kind of vacation.

You may think a safari would be amazing, but how do you feel about tents, creepy crawlies? Do you want to spend time looking at ancient treasures and tombs

South African Holiday

2011-08-16T00:53:00.000-07:00

South African Airlines

2011-08-16T00:48:00.000-07:00

African Beaches

2011-08-16T00:39:00.000-07:00

South African

2011-08-16T00:35:00.000-07:00

South African Culture

2011-08-16T00:31:00.000-07:00

Perhaps one of the most spectacular features about the culture in South Africa would be that there isn’t just one single culture, but instead a whole cornucopia of different cultures that represent every level of an extremely stratified community. There are of course many hybrid mixtures of these varied cultures, making this nation one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world.

Culture cant get more diverse than it is in South Africa. This is a multiracial community and defining certain distinct subgroups by skin color alone will land you into a great deal of trouble. Those of British and Afrikaner descent most certainly wont be too happy to be mistaken as one another, and there are many different major and minor groupings that come under the traditional black African cultures.

The melding and mingling in the urban areas of South Africa, together with the intense suppression if the age-old traditional cultures during the years of apartheid, means that the older, more pleasant ways of life are all beginning to fade, but the traditional black cultures are still going strong in many parts of the countryside. Across the different tribes and groups, taboos and marriage customs tend to differ, but one common point that you will notice amongst most of the African traditional cultures is that they are all based on beliefs in ancestral spirits, masculine deities, and supernatural forces. On the whole, polygamy is acceptable and a dowry is generally paid. Cattle also play a very big role in most South African cultures as sacrificial animals and are looked upon as symbols of wealth and riches.

Looking at the art that has come out of the aboriginal populations of South Africa is probably the only way that we can connect with many of its lost cultures. Cave paintings and rock paintings by the San that back to nearly 26,000 years ago are just a small example of the art that has come out of this diverse cultural melting pot that is known to us as South Africa. There are many other cases, like the intricately ‘coded’ beadwork made by the Zulus, which is another good example of the traditional African art that have been created and adapted to survive in different conditions. The Zulu is probably one of the only strongest black cultures that survive till date and the Zulu songs along with their massed singing demonstrations are a very powerful reflection of this ancient culture. The Xhosa tribe also has a very strong presence in the cultural stage of South Africa and they are also known as the red people because of the red clothing worn by the adults.

The distinct culture of the Afrikaner’s has been developed throughout the years in a very deliberate isolation that saw them wandering around with their cows and a Bible in their hands while the rest of Europe experimented with liberalism and democracy. The rural communities of today still revolve around the conservative churches.

Beaches In Africa

2011-08-16T00:25:00.000-07:00

Best South African Beaches

2011-08-15T23:47:00.000-07:00

South African Beach

2011-08-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

South African Beaches

2009-10-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Beaches in South African Beaches are considered to be amongst the best beaches in the world. No wonder that with a shoreline of 2798 km this country has numerous fantastic beaches. The South African Beaches are so much more than laying on the ground all day or swimming, instead there are numerous activities you can do: surfing, kite surfing, diving and hiking along the coastline.
Port St John's, Wild Coast is a fantastic piece of coastal coastline. The South African Beaches is relatively underdeveloped though it is great place for sunbathing or swimming in the coastal waters of the lagoon.
Port Elizabeth has several beaches offering safe swimming and surfing. The Kings Beach is the most popular beach there also great is the Humewood Beach.

Dolphin Beach

2009-10-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

Gonubie Beach

2009-10-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Gonubie Beach offer something for everyone, from protected beaches for family outings to the more untamed beaches that are a surfer's paradise. Scuba dive or snorkel on the Elephant Coast or enjoy the holiday vibe at one of the South Coast's four "blue flag" beaches.
The Gonubie Beach offer plenty of relaxation and sporting opportunities, including surfing, boating, fishing and whale and dolphin watching, or for the more adventurous take a trip in a microlight to enjoy the spectacular view from above. It is also a surfer's paradise, offering some of the best waves in the country. There are great waves wherever you go, with warm waters all year around, so that you need little more than a spring wetsuit for warmth, and on hot summer days even this is not a necessity.

Humewood Beach

2009-10-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

The Humewood Beach in South Africa is considered to be amongst the best beaches in the world. No wonder that with a shoreline of 2798 km this country has numerous fantastic beaches. The South Africa's Humewood Beach is so much more than laying on the ground all day or swimming, instead there are numerous activities you can do: surfing, kite surfing, diving and hiking along the coastline.
Port St John's, Wild Coast is a fantastic piece of coastal coastline.

Kelly's Beach

2009-10-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

its way to Kelly's Beach where shade. trees, green grass and a sandy shoreline. create a family vacation paradise.

King's Beach

2009-10-02T13:20:00.000-07:00

Wells Estate Beach

2009-10-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Addington Beach, Durban

2009-10-02T13:08:00.000-07:00

Anstey's Beach, Durban

2009-10-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

Bay of Plenty Beach

2009-10-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hibberdene Beach

2009-10-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

Lucien Beach

2009-10-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

Margate Main Beach

2009-10-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

Ramsgate Main Beach

2009-10-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

South Beach

2009-10-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

North Beach

2009-10-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

Umhlanga Rocks Main Beach

2009-10-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Uvongo Beach

2009-10-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

Willard Beach

2009-10-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

Bikini Beach

2009-10-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

Clifton 4th Beach

2009-10-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Grotto Beach

2009-10-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hawston Beach

2009-10-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Kleinmond Beach

2009-10-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

Lappiesbaai Beach

2009-10-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

Lookout Beach

2009-10-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

Mnandi Beach

2009-10-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

Mnandi Beach, Strandfontein:-

With a beach for every season and a beach for every reason, Cape Town is one of the best sun, sand and sea destinations in the world. South Africa was the first country outside of Europe to have blue flag beaches, which signifies a high level of water quality, facilities, cleanliness and safety. There are three blue flag beaches in and around Cape Town. These are Clifton Beach, Mnandi Beach and Bikini Beach at Gordons Bay right out on the eastern side of False Bay. There are loads of beaches to choose from and youll need a bit of inside info to end up on the right one.

Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand

Just for starters, there is the western and eastern side of the peninsula - divided by a 1,000m-high mountain so you could have totally different weather within twenty metres. And, naturally, the sea conditions can differ widely - dead flat calm on one side and crashing waves on the other. Another very important thing to bear in mind is the culture of the different beaches. Generally speaking, those on the western side are more sophisticated and fashionable, while the eastern side is more popular with local families who dont want to drive too far from the sprawling low-rent suburbs on the Cape Flats. But - and this is a big but - the water is usually three or four degrees warmer on the False Bay, or Eastern side.

Clifton Beach

The water temperature is usually between about 10°C and 14°C on the Western Seaboard and between about 12°C and 17°C on the False Bay side (very occasionally as high as twenty). But its not a good idea to generalise - each beach has its own particular charm so here they are - starting from False Bay and heading off around the peninsula. False Bay curves in a huge arc from Gordons Bay and Strand in the East, right round to Cape Point at its westernmost extremity.

Gordons Bay Beach

but is not a great swimming beach, and more The eastern side is more like the western seaboard, with the water temperature a few degrees colder than the eastern side. Its a rocky shore, with a few beaches, mainly, which has great surffamily friendly beaches at Gordons Bay and Strand. Bikini beach, at Gordons Bay, is one of Cape Towns three Blue Flag Beaches. Also on the eastern shore of False Bay is Strand, which is a great family beach, Koeëlbaai - well loved by surfers but not offering the safest of bathing.

The northern shore of False Bay is a long stretch of beautiful, rather exposed, coast with a number of great beaches that, because of their proximity to the almost exclusively black suburbs (or townships) of Langa, Gugulethu, Nyanga, Khayalitsha and Mitchells Plain are frequented almost exclusively by black people.

Strand Beach

These are Macassar, Monwabisi, the blue flag Mnandi Beach and Strandfontein. Muizenberg Beach, situated in the corner where the rather wild northern shore meets the rocky but well populated eastern side of the peninsula, is a long family-friendly beach where almost every Cape Town surfer learned. Its pretty crowded, loads of kids, families, dogs and noise. There are all the usual facilities, like showers, and a couple of nice coffee shops close by. There is a useful walkway from Muizenberg to St James,

Muizenberg Beach

just on the seaward side of the railway line. Muizenberg is one of the most racially integrated of Cape Towns beaches, with a good sample of the whole spectrum of the rainbow nation. St James Tidal Pool and beach is usually very crowded in summer and is not a particularly restful experience, but the nearby Danger Beach is much quieter and is frequented almost exclusively by local residents. Probably because it is really well named and there is a pretty nasty little undertow and some big dumpers. Dalebrook Pool in Kalk Bay is much the same as St James.

St James Tidal Pool

Fish Hoek Beach stretches for just over a mile at the head of a beautiful bay. Its also popular with families, but there is much more space for them to spread out - and the northern, Clovelly, side is usually relatively peaceful. Fish Hoek often has a nice little wave and its very popular with young surfers. From the southern end of the beach another one of those great walkways hugs the southern end of the bay. Its a great walk, especially in whale season, and there are lovely tidal pools. Long Beach, Simons Town is not very long at all and should not be confused with the other Long beach (below).

Fish Hoek Beach

Its very sheltered and is a great place for children as there are virtually no waves and the water slopes gently into the shallow bay. There is an interesting view of the Simons town harbour and the yacht club. Seaforth is another very sheltered beach. A restaurant and other facilities make this more a family beach than a quiet getaway. There is a nice walkway from just past Seaforth to Boulders, with a few nice mini-beaches en route.
Boulders is the most fabulous swimming beach in Cape Town - if not the world. Huge boulders create sheltered little coves and the resident penguins often swim past for a look at the people. This is a pay beach in season.

Boulders Beach

Windmill Beach is another gloriously sheltered, gently sloping beach with flat, shallow water thats ideal for families. It is just past Boulders.

The coastline from here on to Cape Point is quite rocky, and offers excellent diving and snorkelling, especially in winter. Little beaches along here are Froggy Pond, which is conveniently close to the road, Millers Point, which is primarily a launching place for powerboats, and the beautiful but virtually inaccessible Smitswinkel Bay.

Within the national park, there are a number of small beaches. On the False Bay side, Buffelsbaai, with its safe tidal pool and lovely beach is the most popular. On the western side of Cape Point, Platboom and Olifantsbos are the most popular, but there are numerous small beaches and it is possible to walk for miles along this coast.

Windmill Beach

Just outside the national park, on the western side, is the lovely beach village of Scarborough, with its long sandy beach, great surf, interesting rock pools and lovely walks. There are minimal, but sufficient, facilities and a couple of good restaurants in the village are really close.Kommetjie is a small village with a large tidal pool and a really lovely long beach - also called Long Beach, but with far better reason than the one near Simons town.
Its a very popular surfing beach and theres a great walk all the way to Noordhoek Beach, at the foot of the scenic Chapmans Peak.

Harbour with its numerous fishing boats and yacht marina. Hout Bay Beach stretches from the other end of Chapmans Peak to the Hout Bay Hout Bay beach is a great family beach, but its also popular with horse riders, dog walkers and kayakers.

Diaz Beach at Cape Point

Sandy Bay, which can only be reached by walking along the coast from Llandudno, is Cape Towns official/unofficial nudist beach. Llundudno is one of those beautiful beaches that seem to have it all. Parking is a bit of a headache, so it never gets tooooo crowded.
Its one of the most popular sundown picnic spots in Cape Town. Llundudno is also one of Cape Towns most desirable residential areas.
At Oudekraal the unPC-named Hottentots Huisie is a very popular family beach with picnic sites, braai places and the like so it is not at all restful. Just around the corner, in front of the hotel, where the divers go in, is a tiny little beachie but there are some nice rocks to lounge on and a bit of grass here and there, and you can usually just slip into the sea off the rocks when the sea is calm.

Bakoven is a gorgeous, tiny beach with lovely big rocks on which sun-worshippers drape themselves with glorious abandon. Its also a very exclusive residential area.

One of the few beaches on the Western Seaboard that is not protected from the south east wind, Camps Bay Beach is still very popular and quite frenetic with families, stylish singles, tourists, the lot. Its a long-ish beach, backed by a row of palm trees, a busy road and a bank of fashionable restaurants and coffee shops that overlook the beach. Its a great sunset spot.
You can walk from Camps Bay to Glen Beach, which is a perfect little enclave with a few beach houses, awesome surf (with some very territorial locals) and a lovely beach.

Around the next point is Maidens Cove, which is pretty much a family beach. Just behind the beach is the Glen Country Club and the very popular La Med, which overlooks a large grassy area where paragliders come in to land after taking off from Lions Head.

Long Beach from Chapmans Peak

Next in line is the iconic Clifton with its four beaches - rather unimaginatively named 1st,2nd, etc. But thats where the lack of imagination ends. Actually - the bathing costumes usually seen on Clifton dont require much in the way of imagination either but this is the premier beach in Cape Town - make that in South Africa - and its probably one of the top ten or twenty most fashionable beaches in the world. The wealthy all aspire to owning homes fronting its snow white sands and the beautiful people fly from all around the world to see and be seen and to strut their gorgeous lithe bodies against the backdrop of the unbelievably turquoise water dotted with gleaming white yachts.

Long Beach from Kommetjie

But, hey, you dont have to be beautiful or rich to frolic on Cliftons sands and sun yourself next to the rich and famous. Its a free country, after all.

Camps BayBeach

Sea Point is more ocean front that beach, but there are a few small ones. Saunders Rocks, has a small beach with a tidal pool, Rocklands is another beach with just a small patch of sand, and Three Anchor Bay is a tiny little beach, and there is also a small patch of sand next to the boathouses also at Three Anchor Bay launching site. The Sea Point Promenade is a lovely long walkway right near the sea that is often frequented by joggers, dog walkers, families, and senior citizens taking advantage of the perfect surface to glide their Zimmer frames. Its a cultural experience.

View of Camps Bay from Maidens Cove

The Mouille Point Beach is more a walking beach than a sun tanning or swimming beach and it ends where the V&A Waterfront and the harbour begins. North of Cape Town city centre and the harbour, the beaches front onto Table Bay and are kind of the beginning of the West Coast. Milnerton Beach is a long beach that offers excellent walking and reasonable swimming and sun tanning. Further on is Sunset Beach, which can usually be spotted from miles away by the multi-coloured kites hovering above it.

Bloubergstrand, which consists of two beaches - Big Bay and Little Bay - is a favourite windsurfing and kitesurfing spot. Its also a great family beach.

Table Bay & Milnerton Beach aerial

Blue Flag flies on SA beaches

2009-09-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

Nineteen South African beaches have been awarded international Blue Flag status for 2008/09 for excelling in safety, cleanliness, provision of amenities and maintenance of environmental standards.

Blue Flag gives local and foreign visitors the knowledge that their beaches are clean, environmentally sound and adhere to international safety and other tourist standards.

When South Africa joined the campaign in 2001 as the first country outside Europe to participate, Blue Flag began to grow into a truly international campaign.

The voluntary eco-label is given to beaches that meet 14 criteria spanning three aspects of coastal management: water quality, environmental education and information, and safety and services, which include excellent life-saving standards, top-rate parking and sparkling ablution facilities.

Local authorities report a number of spin-offs from being awarded Blue Flag status, including an increase in visitors, improved behaviour on the part of beach-goers, property prices rising for homes near Blue Flag beaches - and visitors enjoying a well cared-for and managed beach.