Known for its warm waters, surfing culture, quirky shops and bohemian architecture, Muizenberg is a vibrant coastal town that will take your breath away with its scenery, art and water-based activities.
Muizenberg, or “Muizies” as it’s affectionately known, is a vibrant coastal town located 27km (around 30 minutes) from the Cape Town City Centre.
Known for its warm waters and surfing culture, Muizenberg offers the perfect setting for families to come together and make lasting memories. It’s no wonder that the beachfront is always buzzing with energy and enthusiasm.
But Muizenberg is not just about the beach. As you venture away from the sandy shorelines, you’ll stumble upon an array of quirky shops and unique architecture that define the town’s bohemian charm. From charming bookshops to delightful bric-a-brac stores and mouth-watering eateries, Muizies embraces a home-grown culture that is truly one of a kind.
In Muizenberg, you’ll get to experience the best of both worlds – a vibrant city life along with a tranquil coastal escape.
For the Nature Warrior
Get ready for an adventure-packed day at Muizenberg Beach! With its warm, shallow waters, visitors can enjoy swimming, wading, walking, jumping, splashing, or even surfing the waves. Don’t know how to surf? No problem! Sign up for lessons with one of the oldest surf schools in the area, Gary’s Surf School, or try out Learn 2 Surf or Stoked Surf School. If you’re looking for something different, Surfstore offers Kite Surfing lessons, while Surf Emporium will teach you the art of Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP). If you’re already an expert, then you can simply rent the equipment from these respective shops and hit the beach.
Explore the Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve – a scenic open water wetland or get your heart pumping with a hike up the mountain. If you’re feeling adventurous, fly a kite down at Zandvlei or wait for the annual Cape Town International Kite Festival in October.
For the Fearless Foodie
One of the absolute must-visit places in Muizenberg is Carla’s Mozambique Restaurant in York Road. Known as the Prawn Queen, Carla’s offers an exciting dining experience of delectable Portuguese seafood flavours that will take your taste buds on a thrilling journey. Their juicy prawns and heavenly mussels are a must!
For those seeking stunning views, trendy decor, and delicious food, Tiger’s Milk at Surfers Corner is the place to be. With its lively atmosphere and mouth-watering menu, it’s no wonder that Tiger’s Milk has become a favourite among locals. And if you’re in the mood for some great people-watching, head over to Knead Bakery. Situated along the newly energised beachfront, Knead Bakery not only offers wholesome, artisanal bread but also serves up scrumptious breakfasts that will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to take on the day.
For the Urban Adventurer
Take a stroll down Palmer Road into the Village and soak up the vibrant arts and culture scene of Muizenberg. The creative shops here showcase their art and innovation like nowhere else. Follow the mosaic fish on building walls around the village area while you take in the weird and wonderful architecture of Muizenberg. Speaking of architecture, head over to Main Road and marvel at the stunning homes that once housed the rich and famous.
Main Road is also home to the Sobeit Studio. Enjoy this unique space where you can pick out a treasure – a candle, a ring or any other ornament – in a design that will surprise you!
Head to the corner of Main and York Road where you can purchase some literary classics at a bargain at Paper Moon Book Shop; or buy some surf gear from the Corner Surf Shop, the oldest surf shop in Cape Town.
Watch a show at the Masque Theatre next to False Bay Station on the Main Road – shows vary from dance to drama, comedy to foyer jazz sessions – a mix of Cape Town’s finest talent.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Muizenberg, take the online walking tour, Muizenberg Like a Local. This tour will take you around the streets of Muizenberg and give you a unique perspective on the area, showing you the sights through the eyes of a local. You’ll need to download the VoiceMap app to access this tour.
Where to Stay
Bella Ev stands tall as a magnificent villa with a touch of Ottoman flair. This enchanting national monument exudes a unique soul, captivating the hearts of those who appreciate the beauty of the world around them.
If you’re seeking a backpacker’s haven boasting stunning sea views and unrivalled proximity to the ocean, look no further than African Soul Surfer. Nestled along Beach Road, this hidden gem offers rooms that are sure to take your breath away. For those who prefer the convenience of self-catering apartments, the art deco-styled Empire Building is the perfect spot.
If luxury and comfort are what you seek, MUi STAYS Self-Catering Apartments on Beach Road are a fantastic choice for a truly indulgent Muizenberg getaway. And for an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary, Admiralty Bed & Breakfast, situated along the tranquil shores of the Marina da Gama, promises an unforgettable stay.
