TL;DR – Key Takeaways
- One of Cape Town’s longest and most untouched beaches—perfect for solitude, surfing, and scenic views.
- Ideal for horse riding, photography, hiking, and bird watching near protected wetlands.
- Expect minimal crowds, strong waves, and lots of space to explore—plan to walk a lot!
- Bring layers, as the weather changes quickly. There are no beach vendors, so pack your own snacks and water.
- Horse riding and surf lessons should be booked ahead, especially during weekends and holidays.
All About Noordhoek Beach
If there’s one place in Cape Town that I find myself returning to over and over again, it’s Noordhoek Beach. Nestled beneath the cliffs of Chapman’s Peak Drive, this beach is raw, expansive, and cinematic. It’s not the kind of place with loud beach bars or umbrellas for rent—it’s wild, quiet, and completely unspoiled.
What first amazed me was just how far the beach stretches. You can walk for nearly an hour and still not reach the end. That sense of space is what makes Noordhoek so special.
The name “Noordhoek” means “north corner” in Dutch, a nod to its geography tucked at the northern end of the valley. But its roots go deeper—this land was once inhabited by the Khoi people, who fished and foraged in these waters. Later, during Dutch settlement, it became part of a farming area and then, eventually, a coastal escape known for its ethereal beauty.
Even Hollywood took notice—scenes from The Piano and even South Africa’s Generations were shot here. But through it all, it’s managed to remain refreshingly untouched.
Geography: A Coastal Canvas
Noordhoek Beach stretches out for over 8 kilometers—making it one of the longest beaches in the country. To the north, Chapman’s Peak looms above you, offering a dramatic backdrop. To the south, the Silvermine Mountains rise in the distance. And just behind the dunes lie the Noordhoek wetlands, a biodiversity hotspot protected by conservation efforts.
The sand is bright white and fine underfoot, and the beach’s width means it never feels crowded—even in summer. The ocean, while often cold and fierce, provides perfect surf breaks for seasoned riders. I’ve watched dolphins dance through the waves here, and during whale season, it’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of a breaching southern right whale.
Culture & Community Vibes
Noordhoek isn’t just a pretty beach—it has soul. The surrounding village is filled with local artisans, slow-living enthusiasts, and creatives who’ve left the city behind. There’s a weekly market, a local farm village filled with organic stores, and a few cozy eateries that offer homegrown flair.
Art galleries tucked into hidden courtyards display everything from seascapes to handcrafted ceramics. You’ll also hear local music in the air, especially during weekends. The nearby “Klein Libertas” music festival is a regional draw, blending natural beauty with local talent.
Things to Do at Noordhoek Beach
Surfing
If you’re an experienced surfer, Noordhoek offers solid, powerful waves—especially in the late afternoons when the wind picks up. This isn’t a beginner-friendly spot due to strong currents, but if you’re confident, the waves are exhilarating. Beginners should check out surf schools like **Stoked School of Surf** or **Roxy Surf School**, which sometimes offer sessions nearby.
Horse Riding
This was hands-down my most magical Noordhoek experience—riding a horse along the beach at sunset. Local stables like **Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding** and **Noordhoek Beach Rides** offer guided rides that take you across the wetlands and down to the shore. Booking in advance is a must.
Hiking Trails
Just south of the beach, **Silvermine Nature Reserve** offers several hiking routes with jaw-dropping views. My personal favorite? The hike up to **Noordhoek Peak**, where you’ll see the entire coastline stretch beneath you like a living painting.
Bird Watching
The Noordhoek wetlands are an underrated birding paradise. You’ll find African fish eagles, malachite kingfishers, and even otters if you’re lucky. Bring binoculars and walk quietly through the protected boardwalks near **Lake Michelle**.
Picnicking
There are no built-in facilities here—no chairs, no vendors—so you’ll need to bring your own picnic gear. But that’s what makes it feel like your own private beach. Find a spot near the dunes, bring a blanket, and let the kids run free.
Photography
Golden hour here is surreal. If you’re into drone photography, this beach offers vast, empty frames that look like something out of *National Geographic*. Even smartphone photos come out stunning with the contrast of dunes, waves, and mountains.
Beach Volleyball & Beach Games
While there aren’t formal courts, people often bring their own nets and gear. The flat, wide sands are perfect for beach cricket, volleyball, or even sand sculpting with kids.
Fishing
The surf fishing scene here is relaxed but fruitful. Locals cast for **Galjoen**, **Stumpnose**, and **Kob**—especially during early mornings. Make sure you have the appropriate fishing permit from the local post office or online.
Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Bring Layers: The wind can be chilly, even on sunny days.
- No Vendors: Pack your own food, water, and sunscreen—there are no shops on the beach itself.
- Low Tide Magic: Check tide charts before visiting. Horse rides and long walks are best at low tide.
- Watch the Surf: Swimming is not recommended unless you’re a strong swimmer due to rip currents.
- Plan Transport: There’s free parking at the beach entrance, but no public transport runs directly to it. A car is ideal.
How to Get to Noordhoek Beach
Noordhoek is about a 45-minute drive from Cape Town city center, depending on traffic. The most scenic route is via Chapman’s Peak Drive—a winding coastal road with panoramic views. It’s worth the R61 toll fee just for the experience.
Google Maps Link (for directions):
Click here for directions to Noordhoek Beach
Contact & Helpful Links
Noordhoek Beach Rides:
Website: https://www.noordhoekbeachrides.co.za
Phone: +27 82 774 1191
Email: [email protected]
Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding:
Website: https://www.sleepyhollowhorseriding.co.za
Silvermine Nature Reserve Info:
https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/
FAQs – Noordhoek Beach, Cape Town
Is Noordhoek Beach safe for swimming?
Swimming is not advised due to strong rip currents and cold water temperatures. Lifeguards are not always present.
Are dogs allowed on Noordhoek Beach?
Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash in certain zones. Check the signage at the entrance for pet rules.
What is the best time to visit Noordhoek Beach?
Visit during late afternoon or early morning for fewer crowds and stunning light. Avoid windy midday hours in summer.
Do I need a permit to fish at Noordhoek Beach?
Yes, a recreational fishing permit is required. You can get one at the post office or online via South Africa’s government services portal.
Can I get there using public transport?
Unfortunately, Noordhoek is not accessible via Cape Town’s main public transport. A car or ride-share is your best bet.
Disclaimer: WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
