Stunning Camps Bay, with its palm fringed sandy beach, is the jewel in the crown of Cape Town’s many magnificent beach suburbs. On the other side of Table Mountain and with the picture perfect backdrop of the superb Lions Head and Twelve Apostles, it is a favourite spot for tourists and a popular weekend and evening local hang out.
The main action takes place around the beach and promenade, running its length. Scattered along this promenade are a wealth of cafés, bars and restaurants, providing the perfect setting for sundown drinks. It is at this time that Camps Bay truly comes to life, with the freshly sun kissed, beautiful people, coming out to enjoy the vibrant and colourful nightlife. Stretching back from the beach, and up into the hills, is the residential area, playing host to some wonderful architecture and fantastic hotels and guesthouses.
Being only 7 minutes from the centre of Cape Town, this trendy suburb is easily reachable, either along the coastal road, passing through the suburbs of Green Point and Sea Point, or via the breathtaking Chapman’s Peak Drive. Although public transport is limited, taxi rides in an out are reasonably priced, or “sharing taxis” depart from the promenade to various nearby locations.
Whether wishing to take part in any of the various water sports on offer, lap up the sun, venture into the mountains, or simply people-watch at the cafés, Camps Bay is an idyllic setting in which to do so.
Walking Trails - Due to its wonderful surroundings, Camps Bay is blessed with a number of walking routes, of various levels, offering unforgettable panoramic scenery. The Pipe Track begins at top of Kloof Nek, where a path leads along the top of Camps Bay, providing incredible bay and Twelve Apostle views. Another popular track is up to Lions Head, starting with a steep climb, before flattening out to the summit. This is particularly popular at full moon, when the moon rises over Cape Town. Victoria Road travels from the promenade to Sea Point, passing through Clifton, where it joins the Sea Point esplanade, stretching as far as the V & A Waterfront.
Beach and Sports - For the relaxed and adventurous the beach here has it all. Lay back and soak up the atmosphere amongst some of the world’s best scenery or try your hand at a number of sports, including surfing, surf skiing, kayaking and scuba diving. For the daring, paragliding off Lions Head is an experience of a lifetime.
Camps Bay Nightlife
Once the sun goes down, Cape Town’s hip and trendy come out to play, filling the bars and restaurants along the promenade. Popular places for eating and late drinks include the stylish Caprice, Sandbar and Sapphire. On the other side of the bowling green, Dizzy’s is a lively pub, especially for Tuesday karaoke nights. A short drive from the beach and on the headland is La Med, a huge open-air bar and restaurant. Sunday is the main day, when revellers spend the day drinking and dining under the sun. Budget Hotels Camps Bay
Stan Halt Youth Hostel - Dorms in a great location and with fantastic views. Tel (27) (21) 4389037.
Midrange Hotels Camps Bay
Camps Bay Resort - Within walking distance of everything and an excellent selection of elegant rooms and apartments. Tel (27) (21) 4379708.
The Glen Apartments - Set back from the main drag are this fine collection of studio, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, complete with stunning views. Tel (27) (21) 4379704.
Totness Place - Another collection of exquisite apartments in a tranquil location, with a bakery and restaurant next door. Tel (27) (21) 4379708.
Luxury Hotels Camps Bay
12 Apostle Hotel & Spa - Stunning hotel, set in a nature reserve and complete with its own walking trails that lead to beautifully secluded areas. Tel (27) (21) 4379000.
Camps Bay Retreat - Excellent boutique hotel where relaxation, within its peaceful confines, is always the order of the day. Tel (27) (21) 4379703
Bay Hotel - An icon of Camps Bay with unmatched views across the bay, mountain backdrop and rooms in which to indulge. Tel (27) (21) 4379701.